A two-day national seminar on “Jain Philosophy, Culture and Heritage: Special Reference to Odisha”, organised by the Jain Chair of the Utkal University of Culture in collaboration with the All India Digamber Jain Heritage Preservation Organisation, New Delhi, concluded here on Sunday.
The seminar provided a platform to philosophers, historians, archeologists and Jain scholars to undertake critical reflections on the Jain philosophy, religion and culture, art and architecture. Odisha carries a rich legacy of Jain philosophy and religion through its temples, caves and inscriptions.
Gracing as chief guest, Tripura Central University Vice-Chancellor Prof VL Dharurkar spoke about the antiquity, assimilative and composite character of Jainism. He called upon the young generation to be inspired by the philosophy of Ahimsa, Anekant and Aparigrah, emphatically propounded by Mahavir.
Digamber Jain Heritage president Nirmal Jain Sethi highlighted the architectural significance of Khandagiri and Udayagiri hills and emphasized on their preservation and conservation. He urged the Union and the State Governents to approach Unesco to declare Khandagir and Udyagir as World Heritage Site.
Utkal Univeristy of Culture VC Prof Kamal Kant Misra delivered a welcome address at the outset. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by PG Council Chairman Prof Jagannath Kuanr.
A documentary film on ‘Jain Heritage in Odisha’ was released and a photo exhibition on organised. As many as 20 research papers were presented on the inauguration ceremoney. The valedictory function was graced by Goshal Sagarji Maharaj.