Seminar on "Literature, Philosophy, and Ideology: Inter Dialogue"
The School of Punjabi Studies, Panjab University, Chandigarh, the ICSSR North-Western Regional Centre, Panjab University, Chandigarh, and the Punjab Arts Council organized a seminar in collaboration on "Literature, Philosophy, and Ideology: Inter Dialogue" at the ICSSR Complex, P.U. Chandigarh.
Chandigarh, January 29, 2025: The School of Punjabi Studies, Panjab University, Chandigarh, the ICSSR North-Western Regional Centre, Panjab University, Chandigarh, and the Punjab Arts Council organized a seminar in collaboration on "Literature, Philosophy, and Ideology: Inter Dialogue" at the ICSSR Complex, P.U. Chandigarh.
In her presidential remarks, Director of Research and Development Cell Prof. Yojna Rawat, stated that in a time of increasing polarisation, such discussions offer a vital space for dialogue, providing new insights into how culture, thought, and belief systems are continually reshaped by both literature and philosophy. Efforts must be made to foster intellectual engagement and cross-disciplinary conversations that challenge conventional thinking and explore the diverse ways in which culture and knowledge intersect with the world.
In his keynote address, Prof. Ronki Ram stated that literature has always been a battleground for ideologies, just as philosophy has served as a source of critique. This dialogue aims to foster a meaningful space where ideas, through the medium of language, can illuminate both individual and collective human experiences. He further argued that poetry and philosophy operate in parallel, creating new knowledge through discourse.
Professor Amarjit Grewal, a renowned thinker, in his address stressed the need for an ethical approach to representation and storytelling in relation to ideological movements. As contemporary authors grapple with global crises, these conversations challenge and expand the traditional boundaries between the arts and social theory. He noted that the Rigveda, a religious scripture written in the land of Punjab, is the greatest source of philosophy and morality. He emphasised the need for a shift from materialism to meaningful existence, highlighting how technology has changed human behavior.
Swarnjit Savi, Chairman of the Punjab Arts Council, appreciated the contributions of all departments in dedicating the program to the distinguished poet Padma Shri Surjit Pattar. He emphasised that dialogues like these should continue at a global level for the betterment of humankind.
While introducing the theme, Honorary Director of the ICSSR Regional Centre, Prof. Upasna Joshi stated that we must explore the profound connections between these three fields of human inquiry and examine how literature and philosophy intertwine with political and ideological movements, shaping societal norms, identities, and individuals' roles in the world. She drew on the insights of leading philosophers, writers, and cultural theorists to illustrate how literature has both reflected ideological currents and actively shaped political discourse.
Earlier, Prof. Yograj Angrish, Chairman of the School of Punjabi Studies, welcomed the dignitaries, distinguished scholars, and researchers. He remarked that Punjabi literature has gained its richness as much of it has been, and continues to be, translated into numerous languages, offering creative ideas drawn from diverse linguistic and subject-based perspectives. Prof. Sarbjit Singh proposed the vote of thanks.