Events
'Jan-Jan Ke Ram' Ramayana Conclave
On February 25th, 2023, Maharishi University, under the joint aegis of the Department of Culture and Tourism Government, Uttar Pradesh, and Ayodhya Shodh Sansthan, organized 'Jan-Jan Ke Ram' Ramayana Conclave to celebrate and explore the global presence of 'RAM'. The program commenced with the welcome ceremony of eminent guests by Mr. Shambhunath Pandey, who emphasized that the values of Indian tradition and culture are contained in the holy Ramayana, and the human values implied in the Ramayana will always be relevant to the world. He further glorified that Rama belongs to everyone and is in everyone, and the Ramayana explains not only how to achieve economic prosperity but also how to lead humanity.
The event was divided into two segments the Discussion forum and Cultural Programs. The conclave was attended by many esteemed guests, including scholars, authors, and religious leaders. Throughout the day, attendees were treated to lectures, discourses, and cultural activities on various topics, such as the relevance of the Ramayana in modern times, its impact on Indian culture, and its literary and spiritual significance. The conclave also featured a variety of performances, such as a traditional Ramayana dance, a dramatic re-enactment of the epic by the students of Maharishi University, a fancy dress competition, poetry recitation, etc. in the evening.
The program set in motion with the tradition of Maharishi University of Information Technology by performing Guru Puja to pay gratitude to the holy tradition of masters by all the Transcendental Meditation Teachers and the esteemed guests were present on the stage. This was followed by the felicitation ceremony of the Guest of Honor Param Pujya Saadhvi Dr. Vishveshwari Devi, esteemed guests Param Pujya Neeraj Nayanji Maharaj, Saadhvi Deepika Bharti ji, Prof Umapati Dixit, Prof Mauli Kaushal, Acharya Chandra Shekhar Shastri, Prof Upendra Rao, Prof Chandramani Mishra and Luv Kush Dwivedi, Director Ayodhya Shodh Sansthan. All of them were felicitated by Hon’ble Chancellor, Shri Ajay Prakash Shrivastava, and Dean Academics Dr. Trapty Agarwal.
The Hon'ble Chancellor, Shri Ajay Prakash Shrivastava, gave the opening speech, thanking Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Aditya Nath ji for the opportunity to organize the Ramayana Conclave and for choosing Maharishi University as one of the centers to host this gigantic and knowledgeable event. He emphasized the wisdom of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi's words to construct a university on the land of Ayodhya. There is a reason why a religious place could be controversial, but a high-value educational place would be appreciated by any kind of religious leader. We are also in progress to build Ramayana University, and the Chancellor has already invited the esteemed guest to be a part of the inaugural ceremony of Ramayana University in Ayodhya. He lauded the UP government for making efforts to bring the Ramayana to the masses through art and culture by organizing Ramayana Conclave.
Shambhu Pandey, the Moderator of the Ceremony, invited Param Pujya Neeraj Nayanji. According to revered spiritual leader Neeraj Nayanji, Ram was the embodiment of the divine, and the Ramayana is a timeless story about the struggle between good and evil. He also used symbols to explain the difference between the Ramayana and the Mahabharata: the Ramayana was about brothers fighting each other to give each other their all, whereas the Mahabharata was about brothers fighting each other to get the most out of each other. He also explained with an analogy that when a man asked his son how big the ocean was, the son spread his arms and said with his arms spread that this big was the ocean, and his father got to know that the child could only explain to its limit how big the ocean was, so similarly, Ram is like the ocean, which is silent, vast, and unbounded. He taught that Ram was the ideal example of how to live a life of righteousness and devotion to the divine, by following which one can achieve inner peace and spiritual enlightenment. He also stated that a Brahman appears graceful and knowledgeable when dressed in a dhoti and wearing a pothi.
Prof. C. Upendra Rao talked about how the Ram Katha is an integral part of the Indian Sant Parampara that has been passed down from generation to generation and is deeply rooted in Indian culture. He further explained that the Ram Katha is the source of wisdom and guidance for the people of India and is an important part of the Indian spiritual heritage. He also emphasized Agastya Rishi, and he said that the Indian Subcontinent is fully submerged in the Indian Saints and Munis. He bestowed upon Ram the Brahmastra instrumental Ram's Victory, a powerful weapon. He also drank the ocean and saw the two avatars of Vishnu at once, Matsya Avtar and Kachhap Avtar, and he also mentioned that the scholars should take on research projects on each Rishi so that our culture and integrity remain intact.
Prof. Mauli Kaushal asserted that Ram went to the forest to experience the age-old tradition of visiting saints in order to obtain their blessings and live a simple and natural life. She also explained how the word "sant" evolved into "sanatan." In modern usage, "sant" has become a term of endearment and respect, whereas "sanatan" is used to refer to someone who has achieved the state of spiritual perfection and is the embodiment of truth and goodness.
Saadhvi Deepika Bharti spoke of the importance of Ram, the seventh incarnation of Vishnu, and his role in the Ramayana. She emphasized the significance of the Ramayana in Indian culture and its relevance to modern life. She also averred the various aspects of Ram’s character and how they can be applied to our lives today. Rama exemplified the perfect person; he embodied the divine on Earth, and he taught us how to live our lives in accordance with dharma and divine principles. Bhagwan Rama was the embodiment of compassion, gentleness, kindness, righteousness and integrity. Although he had all the power in the world, he still was peaceful and gentle. Through careful examination of his life, we learn how to be the perfect son, the perfect brother, the perfect husband and the perfect king. His reign in Ayodhya is referred to as Ramrajya, the epitome of perfect governance.
Prof. Umapati Dixit discussed the life lesson that the significance of a guru in one's life and the holy life of Lord Ram inspired him. He also expressed his ideas on the epic and its applicability in the modern world. He emphasized the Ramayana's significance to Indian culture and its capacity to unite people. He also talked on how the Ramayana may be utilized to advance harmony and peace in society and its different interpretations. The opinion of Prof. Umapati Dixit on the Ramayana Conclave were perceptive and motivating.
Prof. Chandra Mani Mishra stated Ram as a symbol of truth, peace, and harmony that should be established in every human being and in every home. Ram is a source of strength and courage that can help us face any challenge in life. He embodies the values of righteousness and justice and reminds us to always strive to do what is right. Ram is a symbol of hope and optimism that can help us to stay positive even in difficult times. He is a reminder that no matter what life throws at us, we can always find the courage and strength to overcome any obstacle. By establishing Ram in our hearts and in our homes, we can create a better and more peaceful world.
Param Pujya Saadhvi Dr. Vishveshwari Devi ji has a deep reverence for Ram and the Ramayana. She believes that Ram is the embodiment of Dharma and that the Ramayana is a timeless story that teaches us the importance of Dharma and how it can be applied in our lives. She also believes that Ram is the ideal man and that by following his example and teachings, we can lead a life of righteousness and morality. She believes that Ram is the symbol of truth, justice, and righteousness and that by following his teachings, we can create a better society.
Chandra Shekhar Shastri ji emphasized that Ram was the embodiment of truth, justice, and righteousness, and that it was through his teachings that one could attain spiritual enlightenment. He believed that Ram was the source of all knowledge, and that all of the Vedas and Upanishads were derived from him. He also mentioned that Ram was the source of all power, and that his presence was necessary for the protection of the world.
The function followed by the felicitation of Param Pujya Sadhvi Dr. Vishveshwari Devi, Saadhvi Deepika Bharti ji, Prof. Umapati Dixit, Prof. Mauli Kaushal, Acharya Chandra Shekhar Shastri, Prof. Upendra Rao, Luv Kush Diwedi, Director Ayudhya Sodh Sansthan felicitated by, Hon’ble Chancellor, Shri Ajay Prakash Shrivastava, Vice Chancellor, Prof. (Dr.) B.P. Singh, Advisor SoC, Ms. Aditi Shrivastava, Dean Academics Dr. Trapty Agarwal and Director, Ayodhya Shodh Sansthan, Dr. Luv Kush Dwivedi with a shawl and miniature replica of Ram and Sita as memento.
The vote of thanks was proposed by Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, Prof. (Dr.) B.P. Singh followed by lunch.
The evening session commenced with the Guru Puja and the felicitation ceremony of the chief guests and speakers Prof. Pawan Sinha, Ms. Urvashi Agarwal, and Shri. Prem Sagar with a shawl and memento by Hon’ble Chancellor, Shri Ajay Prakash Shrivastava. Director, Ayodhya Shodh Sansthan, Dr. Luv Kush Dwivedi, felicitated the dignitaries of Maharishi University of Information Technology, by presenting shawl and memento.
The keynote speaker Prof. Pawan Sinha, stated that Ram is a symbol of good governance and justice. He believes that Ram stands for the principles of truth, justice, and righteousness, and that these are the foundations of good governance. Elaborating further on Ram's governance, he said, it was based on the principles of mutual respect, cooperation, and understanding, and that these principles should be followed in order to ensure a peaceful and prosperous society. Professor Sinha believes that Ram's governance should be emulated in order to create a better society and a better world.
Shri Prem Sagar Ji a great admirer of Ram and the Ramayana voiced that Ram was the perfect example of a righteous and just ruler, and that the Ramayana was an exemplary work of literature that taught valuable lessons about morality, justice, and loyalty. He also told that Ram was a great leader, and that his example should be followed by all. He viewed the Ramayana as a source of great wisdom, and as a way to gain insight into the human condition. Ultimately, Prem Sagar Ji put forth that Ram and the Ramayana were invaluable sources of inspiration and guidance for all of mankind.
Ms. Urvashi Agarwal, advocated about the devotion of a tribal woman to Ram and her unwavering faith in him. She further asserted that Ram and Shabri serve as examples of how to live a righteous life. God Ram is an example of how to live a life of dharma and righteousness, while Shabri is an example of how to live a life of devotion and faith. Through their stories, we can learn important lessons about the power of faith, loyalty, and selflessness. God Ram teaches us to be humble, honest, and selfless, while Shabri teaches us to be devoted and faithful to God, no matter the circumstances.
The conclave also featured an essay competition, digital art competition, manual painting competitions, fancy dress competitions and various cultural programs on Ramayana, which included Kathak dance, a dramatic re-enactment of the epic, poem recitation, lok nritya, mayur nritya, and phoolon ki holi.
The musical dance performance on the Ramayana was a huge success, with a large crowd of students, faculty, and community members in attendance. The performers were the students of MUIT, who all worked together to bring the story of the Ramayana to life. The depictions of the Lord's birth, his 'swayamvar' with Sita, his marriage and 14-year exile, his meeting with Shabri, Ravan's abduction of Sita, and the epic battle in Lanka for the Lord's return from exile and his coronation in Ayodhya—all these aspects were translated into a dance-and-drama extravaganza by cultural troupes. The costumes and sets were also impressive, and the music was lively and energetic. The audience was captivated by the performance, and many were moved to tears by the emotion and beauty of the production.
The Kathak dance began with a brief introduction to the history of kathak, followed by a demonstration of the various techniques used in the dance form. The executant performed various traditional and contemporary kathak pieces, showcasing her skill and talent. The audience was captivated by the beautiful and intricate movements of the performer, and the performance ended with a standing ovation.
The performance of Phoolon Ki Holi a traditional dance from Mathura in the event was an incredible success. The event was attended by a large crowd of students, faculty, and staff, who were all eager to experience the traditional Indian celebration. The event began with a vibrant display of folk dance by amateur dancers, who showcased their traditional dance moves and costumes. The event was filled with vibrant colors and lively music, which made it a truly special experience. The performance included a variety of traditional songs and dances, which were accompanied by a live band. The audience was captivated by the energy and enthusiasm of the performers, and the event was a great success. Overall, the performance of Phoolon Ki Holi was an unforgettable experience that will be remembered by all who attended.
The event augmented with the benign presence of Shri Ajay Prakash Shrivastava, (Hon’ble Chancellor), Prof. Gp Capt. O.P. Sharma, (Director General), Prof. (Dr.) B.P. Singh, (Vice Chancellor), Shri Rahul Bharadwaj, (Member, BOG), Advisor SoC, Ms. Aditi Shrivastava, Mr. Varun Shrivastava (Finance Officer), Dr. Trapty Agarwal (Dean Academics), Deans, Deputy Deans, faculty and staff members of MUIT.
The event concluded with the vote of thanks by Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, Prof. (Dr.) B.P. Singh, followed by Bhandara. The event was well moderated by Mr. Shivam Yadav and well organized by Dr. Trapty Agarwal. The event was a great success, with attendees leaving with a greater appreciation and understanding of the Ramayana and its importance in Indian culture.
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