The BAPS Swaminarayan Research Institute, based at Swaminarayan Akshardham, New Delhi, hosted a prestigious one-day national conference titled “Prayers in Hindu Texts: Philosophical, Literary, and Devotional Dimensions.” The event drew a distinguished gathering of scholars, academics, and students from across India to explore the esoteric meanings and profound applications of prayer within the Hindu tradition.
National Conference on ‘Prayers in Hindu Texts: Philosophical, Literary, and Devotional Dimensions’
Inauguration and Keynote Addresses
The proceedings commenced at 1:30 PM with the traditional Deep Pragatya (lighting of the lamp) accompanied by Vedic chants. Dr. Swami Gyanananddas delivered the opening remarks, welcoming the delegates and elucidating the philosophical necessity of the conference theme.
The inaugural session featured insights from a panel of eminent academics:
- Murli Manohar Pathak (Vice Chancellor, Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri National Sanskrit University)
- Shiv Shankar Mishra (Vice Chancellor, Maharshi Panini Sanskrit Evam Vedic Vishwavidyalaya)
- D. Balaganapathi (Professor of Philosophy, University of Delhi)
- Upendra Rao (School of Sanskrit and Indic Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University)
- Prof. Om Nath Bimali (Head, Sanskrit Department, University of Delhi)
- Prof. Girish Chandra Pant (Jamia Millia Islamia University)
Mahamahopadhyay Pujya Swami Bhadreshdas, Head of the BAPS Swaminarayan Research Institute, shared a special video message defining the conference’s objectives. He described prayer not merely as a ritual, but as a vital medium for spiritual evolution, character building, and the ultimate attainment of moksha (liberation).
Academic Sessions and Research Presentations
The second session was dedicated to the presentation of original research papers. Scholars analysed a wide array of ancient and medieval Hindu texts, covering themes such as:
- Vedic hymns of praise.
- The concepts of complete surrender (prapatti) and divine love in Bhakti literature.
- The psychological and transformative impact of prayer.
Featured presenters included
- Sunil Joshi (Assistant Professor, Hindu College, University of Delhi)
- Narendrakumar Pandya (Principal, Shri Somnath Sanskrit University)
- Shalini Saraswat (Mother’s International School)
- Upendra Rao (Jawaharlal Nehru University)
- Madhavi Gohel (Medical Practitioner, New Delhi)
These presentations fostered rigorous academic dialogue, bridging traditional scriptural wisdom with contemporary scholarly inquiry.
Conclusion
The conference concluded with the distribution of certificates to all participants. Smt. Himani Mehta offered a heartfelt tribute to His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, the guiding inspiration behind the conference, and extended a vote of thanks to the scholars, guests, and volunteers who ensured the event’s success.
