The Indian culture has always generated global interest from ancient period. Multifaceted and multi-layered, it has constantly regenerated itself through the centuries,” said Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas Dharmendra Pradhan.
He was addressing the inaugural ceremony of a three-day international conference on ‘Indian Cultural Heritage: Past, Present and the Future’ here.
Pradhan said Indians are also the largest diaspora in the globe. For centuries, Indian culture, especially the Odishan culture has moved out of the mainland and has created new hues across the globe. “Our young generation needs to be rooted in our culture, rediscovering and reassessing our cultural heritage with its language, literature, religious faith, architecture and festivals,” he said.
The Utkal University in association with the Institute of Media Studies (IMS), Bhubaneswar, organised the conference which began from March 18 here. The Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) and OdishalIVE are the knowledge partner.
“The conference will address all concerns relating to Indian cultural heritage. It would provide a platform to discuss, debate, exchange ideas and viewpoints leading to a better understanding of Indian culture, carrying forward the essence and securing its future,” mentioned Convenor, ICICH and Director, Institute of Media Studies (IMS) Prof Upendra Padhi.
Hundreds of participants joined from four SAARC countries, including India, Nepal, Bhutan and Sri lanka. Three publications were released during inaugural function.
Among others MP Bhartruhari Mahatab, former Chairman, lalit Kala Akademy Dr Kalyan Kumar Chakravarty, former Professor, University of Kelaniya Prof Dayaratne Edirisinghe, co-convenor, ICICH Nilambar Rath were present. Chairman, ICICH and Chairman, PG Council, Utkal University Prof Ranjan Kumar Bal presided.