2017

1st International Conference on Vaishnavism

ADMIN

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1st International Conference on Vaishnavism Jointly organized by the Shree Halari Visa Oswal College affiliated to Mumbai University and BhaktivedantaVidyapitha Research Center of ISKCON - A BRIEF REPORT Mumbai, 6 th July 2017

Contents INTRODUCTION .............................................................................................................................................. 2

INAUGURAL SESSION .................................................................................................................................... 3

Inauguration .................................................................................................................................................... 3

Dr Sanjay Deshmukh, VC ............................................................................................................................... 4

Welcome note ............................................................................................................................................... 4

HG Gauranga Das ........................................................................................................................................... 6

Keynote Address ........................................................................................................................................... 6

Dr Chandrakant Puri ..................................................................................................................................... 10

Guest Speech............................................................................................................................................... 10

Dr Satish Modh .............................................................................................................................................. 11

Guest Speech............................................................................................................................................... 11

Mrs Maya Shahani ........................................................................................................................................ 12

Guest Speech............................................................................................................................................... 12

PAPER PRESENTATIONS ............................................................................................................................ 13

Dr Gauri Mahulikar ...................................................................................................................................... 13

Contribution of Ramanujacharya in bringing about social inclusiveness and reform................................. 13

Dr Ferdinando Sardella ................................................................................................................................. 15

An Overview of the Social and Cultural History of the Bhakti Movement and Vaishnavism ................... 15

Dr. Ruby Sain ................................................................................................................................................. 16

Role of religion in developing happy and healthy societies........................................................................ 16

Dr. S Makbul Islam........................................................................................................................................ 17

Vaishnavism in Cultural Space: East and North-East India ........................................................................ 17

Dr. Madhavi Narsale ..................................................................................................................................... 20

Family Relations in Bhagawat Purana ....................................................................................................... 20

PANEL DISCUSSION ..................................................................................................................................... 23

Mapping the field of Vaishnava studies ........................................................................................................ 23

Dr Ferdinando Sardella ............................................................................................................................... 23

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Dr. Kala Acharya ........................................................................................................................................ 24

Dr. Shubhada joshi ...................................................................................................................................... 25

Ideas on facilitating Study of Vaishnavism ................................................................................................ 26

VOTE OF THANKS ......................................................................................................................................... 26

NEWS COVERAGE ......................................................................................................................................... 27

INTRODUCTION

Scholars and academicians from various parts of the country and abroad converged at the Kalina

campus of Mumbai University to participate in a first of its kind International conference on the

topic “Relevance, Role and Resurgence of Vaishnavism studies in 21st century.” Jointly

organized by the Shree Halari Visa Oswal College affiliated to Mumbai University and

BhaktivedantaVidyapitha Research Center of ISKCON and, the conference witnessed

participation of more than 200 students, scholars and administrators from the field of academia.

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INAUGURAL SESSION

Inauguration

Honorable Vice Chancellor of Mumbai University, Dr. Sanjay Deshmukh and several other

dignitaries like Dr Satish Modh, Director of Vivekanand Institute of Management Studies, Mrs

Maya Shahani, Chairperson at ThadomalShahani Centre for Management,Dr. Chandrakant Puri,

a Chair Professor at Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Contemporary Studies, HG Gauranga Das from

ISKCON Mumbai inaugurated the conference by lighting the lamps. It was followed by

Sarasvati Vandana and the University Anthem.

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Dr Sanjay Deshmukh, VC

Welcome note

Dr. Sanjay Deshmukh in the Welcome note spoke that ethos and scriptures have always guided

the nation since time immemorial and universities can play a major role in resolving the

problems and needs of the society by connecting to the sacred ethos.

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He said that enlightenment can come any time, it does not depend on age. Seeing a saffron figure

on dais we should not be astonished because these people are people who have got

enlightenment from their life. Many of them are from reputed institutes like IITs and have

dedicated themselves for society. We should be open and should grasp everything good that

people have to share. Inculcate quality to respect your teachers. There are 17 Lac species

identified and we are just one species, we are over powering on the virtue of brain. But there is

equitable sharing of the resources. We have to co-exist and we have to understand we inherit the

world along with them. Ethos and scriptures have guided human kind since very starting of this

country Hindustan. Genetically we are one specie, although we have different religion, cast or

creed. Our commitment to country and society is enlightenment and it binds us. Universities

Taxshila and Nalanda had great legacy but it was hindered. Bolonia centre of knowledge

established in 1088 is now the oldest continuing the university but they too took knowledge from

India.

MU is celebrating 160th year of Excellency. When UGC was established there were only 24

Universities in India. After that UGC had long journey it increased the count of universities in

India to great number still we are not able to reach to all the population of country. On board we

have people from Stockhome we understand that Humanity is philosophy of practice and thus we

share common idea with them. There are many respectable people on this platform in-fact Gauri

Maulikar is like my teacher. I want blessings for university from all of you. Universities

historically have resolved the problem and needs of the society not just problems related to

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education. We are proud that the hosts of the conference have selected University premises to

host this event and we are sure that this journey to true knowledge will make the country proud.

HG Gauranga Das

Keynote Address

HG Gauranga Das, Chairperson of BhaktivedantaVidyapitha Research Center in his Key note

address mentioned that today the World is changing faster than ever before and in such a state of

flux we need to ground ourselves into the unchangeable principles of scriptures like the

Bhagavad Gita.Changes which previously use to take 50 years, are now taking place in 5 years.

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In all spiritual and religious journeys including modern theory and philosophies these five things

are common:

Understanding where he is?

What is the destination of the seeker?

What experience is he expecting at destination?

What is his experience during journey?

What are the difficulties one will face in journey?

Statistics shows that modern world is facing many challenges like environmental degradation,

Terrorism, Corruption, etc. We need to understand how these problems are affecting all. He said

that the root cause of modern day problems lies in the disharmony of the self with the people and

environment around, and this can be addressed by developing one’s connection with divinity

leading to harmonious co-existence of self, society and surroundings. This attempt to connect

with the Supreme is the common principle amongst various spiritual traditions.

All religions of world are offering various paths towards this harmony. People of all paths

understand that current situation is disharmony. Zooming within Hinduism there are many

traditions like Advaita, Dvaita, Vishistaadvaita etc.

There are four key Traditions mentioned in Padma Puran – Ramanujacharya, Madhavacharya,

Nimarkacharya and Vishnu Swami. From all traditions we will find that ultimately relationship

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of soul with Supersoul leads to harmony. This harmony of soul with supersoul leads to other

harmony including harmony with nature.

If this relationship is not in harmony it leads to disharmony with other living beings. In this state

soul and nature are too in disharmony. But when in sync with Supersoul all things set on right

place. Analogy is to understand when one identifies relationship with father and mother then he

can understand other relations with uncles and aunts and other people. At next level one

understands that world is like a family - Vasudhaiva Kutubakam.

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In Vaishnav tradition the word for approaching Lord is called – Sharanagati – dictionary

meaning of this word is shelter. But this world has Gati which means movement or journey. Thus

Sharanagati also symbolizes that it is in synergy with journey. It is important to come together

and discuss Journey and its various aspects and share the thought leadership. It is important to

explore what consist at the core of this harmony so that we can understand principles of harmony

and make them relevant. When People ask am I a Sadhu? Then to bewilder them I tell that I am

in health care! Because definition of UN-WHO – defines healthy state is when body mind and

soul are in synergy. There are many epidemics in history which killed many people in World

history but very rarely you will find that in 18 days 64 Crore people died. This happened in war

of Mahabharat at Kurukshetra. This war was arranged by Krishna in response to Duryodhana’s

stubbornness. Who was not accepting will of the Lord. One lesson was to accept the opinion of

Vishnu and it’s representative else face the consequences. One name of Krishna is

Madhusudana, one meaning is who destroy Madhu, an Asura. Madhu also means honey which

has two effects sweetness and intoxicating. Similarly false ego has two effects - sweet and

intoxicating. Aspiring for position and place is sweet and many times hankering goes out of

control thus it is also intoxicating. One friend Brahma Tirtha Prabhu who was in New York now

in Florida once got a visiting card from a person which had PHD BF written on it. When he

asked what that that mean, person replied it is PHD but fail. When asked what was the need to

write that in reply he says that my parents always wanted me to become scholar PhD. I tried but

could not succeed but I wanted to be part of that circuit at the same time I also wanted to be

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honest. Most people when they see PHDBF they thing they think it is beyond PHD but you are

the first person to ask me. Vaishnavism like Doctor’s treatment of patient. Treatment consist of

two parts analysing disease and accepting medicine by patient. Both are essential medicines

without diagnosis may be dangerous and simply analysis without medicine makes entire exercise

futile.

We see that companies in few Sq Km of San Hose are controlling how everyone is expressing

oneself today. Now any class of people has power to express themselves to world. By giving

power to each individual without any type of filter we see that concept of ego or I, me and mine

are becoming so prominent that it will be difficult to control the conflicts.

Even the practice of Vaishnvism will be consider myth in future and concept to dissolve the false

ego can be consider ludicrous. Lofty ideas of scripture will not seem to be relevant to them. They

may wonder ancient people who had no facebook, how their ideas will be relevant. Thus we need

to represent those voices for benefit of future generations. When voice and words spoken by

Vishnu and devotees will be assimilated by majority all will be benefited. When scholars put

their minds churning happens. There is tremendous amount of knowledge available and when it

is churned, revelations comes out. Here on this platform we have luminaries who are churning

great knowledge. It may be possible that results of these churnings are not visible in our life

spans but future generation would thank us for making it more relevant.

Just like spread of some modern disease where names and countries of effected party may be

different. Such disease may be anywhere in world but research takes place worldwide. Similarly

virus of greed, lust, envy is spreading; one kind of drug for all these subtle problems is

connecting with supreme.

Dr Chandrakant Puri

Guest Speech

He shared his experience of working for tribal people for last 25 years. Many Hindu saints of

Maharashtra have worked for upliftment of lower sections of society. He said, “I am fighting for

nomadic tribes of Maharashtra. Everyone has their own way of praying, for me praying is

serving humanity. Meals for people in tribal area of Thane is not easy. It is shocking but it is a

fact that tribal are dying in nearby districts of Mumbai. ISKCON has made significant

contribution by Prasadam distribution in these areas. For me a beautiful example of Vaishnavism

is ISKCON’s project at Govardhan Ecovillage.”

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Dr Satish Modh

Guest Speech

Dr Satish Modh said that in his internet research he could find only one journal of credence on

Vaishnavism which is the Journal of Vaishnava studies, published from Virginia by ISKCON

scholars for last 15 years.He added that translations and works on Indian scriptures have been

pioneered by western scholar with dubious intentions and over a period they have become the

standard text books.

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Most of the research works from European scholars are interpretations of interpretations

neglecting the original work. Thus this conference is important. Our education system is not able

to provide a Platform to publish such work. There is great need to find real meaning of Shad-

Darshan. We see that some people pick something of Darshan and start their schools/ashram. He

said that it is unfortunate that all great works on shad-darshan is available in library of Chicago

instead of India. He thanked organizers and said I feel proud to be present in such

conference.There is an urgent need for interventionin this area. It is a dream that ISKCON starts

a university for such works.

Mrs Maya Shahani

Guest Speech

She started by saying, “Buddha went out of the palace in search of peace, but we Buddhus here

are searching palaces for peace.” Working with UN she realized that at best we just tolerate other

cultures but do not really understand or appreciate them.

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The conference witnessed scholarly paper presentations by Dr Ferdinando Sardella, a Swedish

scholar on the history of religions from Stockholm University, Dr. Sk. Makbul Islam, Ph. D. in

Comparative Folklore from the University of Calcutta, Dr Ruby Sain Head of the Department of

Sociology at Jadavpur University, Dr. Gauri Mahulikar and Dr. Madhavi Narsalay, former and

current HOD at Department of Sanskrit, MU respectively.

PAPER PRESENTATIONS

Dr Gauri Mahulikar

Contribution of Ramanujacharya in bringing about social inclusiveness and reform

On the occasion of 1000 years of appearance of Sripad Ramanujacharya she presented paper on

‘Social inclusiveness by Ramanuja’. She stated that Ramanuja’s philosophy is called

Vishistadvaita, he was prolific Vedantist, ardent worshiper of Vishnu. By personalizing Brahman

he made it accessible to all. He is known for taking initiation form low class saint Kanchipurna.

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Ramanujacharya spread the teachings of Divya prabandham. This is compilation form 12 Tamil

Alvars devotees. He accepted downtrodden people in main stream. His nine works are most

famous and also called as nine ratnas. Work of Ramanujacharya gave intellectual basis to Bhakti.

During that period Parashar’s compilation of Upanishad was misunderstood due to wrong

interpretations of Brahma sutra which Ramanujacharya cleared. Ramanujacharya got these

teachings to door step of common people. He defines Brahman not as an abstract concept but a

personal concept with innumerable qualities.

By his intellectual discussions he converted many Jainas and Buddhas to Vaishnav order in

Mysore. His services exemplified social inclusiveness. He also emphasised on Pancharata which

presents five vyuha of Vishnu. Archa and devotion are its native feeling. Vedic devotion is more

of out of fear for example we can see cases of devotion to Varuna from Vedas. She also

discussed about works of Ramanujacharya - Gadyatrayam, Sri Ranga Gadyam, Vaikuntha

gadyam. Vaikuntha gadyam gives beautiful description of Vaikuntha, Avyaya by Avayaya (limb

by limb) description of Lord Narayan and devotees are lured by such beautiful description.

Ramanujacharya revealed that Salokata, Samipata. Prapatti (or Nyasa by Vedanta deshika) are

not new concept. In-fact Mundaka Upanishad mentions that atman understanding is obtained by

one when chosen by supreme not by knowledge. Thus grace of God plays important role and

whom to reward it becomes responsibility of Lord. It is possible to be become the chosen one by

performance of Bhakti. It is also termed as Marjara Bhakti just like kitten carried by cat.

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By his practice Ramanujacharya preached more than his works (books). Niyatam Kurut Karma

of Bhagvad Gita for Ramanuja is Varnashram Dharma while Shankara translated it as daily

work. Ramanuja also translates Avidhya in Isopanishad as knowledge without varnashrama.

With Varnasharama he demonstrated how even low class person is capable of obtaining lord.

Majorly Ramanujacharya took Vishnu Puran in his teachings.

Dr Ferdinando Sardella

An Overview of the Social and Cultural History of the Bhakti Movement and Vaishnavism

Dr. Ferdinando Sardella mentioned that study of Vaishnavism has been long neglected in India

and there is a need of scholarly work bring to light several unexplored areas in the field of

Vaishnavism which deserve attention.

He highlighted that because data is very less for ancient history there is large scope of

interpretations. Indology as a study began in late 18 century. German indologists were prominent

in this field and now Indian scholars are participating in this. He shared initial three division

were there in Vaishnavism –Vaikhanasa, Pancaratra and Bhagvata. He mentioned that there is

debate on dating of Bhagvat Purnana, Puran itself mentions that it is five thousand years old also

it has mix of Sanskrit which is of Vedic period, it is possible that content of Purana is much older

but in general it is considered that is 1st millennium old.

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In his presentation he showed that archeologically Heliodorus pillar of Vidisha in MP is dated at

113BC having Bhagvat word inscribed on it. He mentions that after Ashok came the Gupta

dynasty which patronized Vaishnavism. This time they practiced Varnashrama and Fa-hien

mentions that citizens were happy and satisfied there no animal killing and king support both

Hindu and Buddha religion. He shared that Angkor Wat of Cambodia with Largest Vishnu

complex was one of the biggest city of that period this temple have reliefs of Ramayana and

Mahabharat. He gave brief on vaishnav saints Alvars ( 7th century) from Tamil Nadu. He also

gave brief on Bhakti Movement and bhakti having both aspects of Saguna and Nirguna

thoughts.

He mentioned that MK Gandhi in his Complete works, publication year 1958-94, vol xxi, page

246 mentions that:

- He does not disbelieve in idol worship

- He advocates cow protection more than general understanding

- He accepts Varnashrama in Vedic sense not as cast system

- He completely believe in Vedas and Upanishadhs

He gave understanding how Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati changed situation from renunciation to

engaging objects in service of lord and border understanding of Jiva daya. His views in Bange

Samajikata, are that Hinduism develops further rather than decays from pure ancient state. He

sent missionary to Europe in 1933 and had Governor of Bengal on board. He mentioned that

Vaishnavism and living spirituality needs to be better studied

Dr. Ruby Sain

Role of religion in developing happy and healthy societies

She said that although study on religion is age-old but it was never included in sociology. Now it

is being considered important because of terrorism etc. Because of these events it is coming in

picture. Secularization is declined by religion. Father of sociology included religion. Under

leftist regime such studies never flourished because it was considered opium. Now we have

established center of religion and society at Jadhavpur University. I had to fight 4-5 years a lot

under left regime since 2011; other departments and staff never agreed and cooperated in this.

Ferdinando helped me in this. This center is first of its kind in Asia. We have organized different

conferences on sociology – impact of religion etc. - socio political structure based on religion.

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Modules that are included in Jadhavpur university are Comparative mysticism , Sociology of

religion, new religious movements, study of religious texts (epistemology), mythological texts,

gender issues in religion, practices (meditation and Yoga etc), Sanskrit language, grammar and

literature, religion and art – aesthetics, healing process, health , media, ethics and values,

behaviors, comparative methodology.

Dr. S Makbul Islam

Vaishnavism in Cultural Space: East and North-East India

Dr. Makbul Islam’s paper on ‘Vaishnavism in Cultural Space: East and North-East India’ was a

special attraction. A keen follower of Jagannath culture, Dr Makbul presented an interesting

account of the history of Vaishnava art, culture and worship. He also drew parallels between

Vaishnavism and Islam.

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He presented a history of Vaishnavism in North East:

Rise of Neo-Vaishnavism in Manipur – State religion by Garib Niwaz (singh-1: 2012). King

Garib Niwaz took initiation from Guru Gopal Das - 1717 AD (Bihari: 2012: 85) founded a

Krishna Mandir - 1722 AD (Bihari: 2012: 89)

Chowpakhekhompa - The king of Burma - presented a deity of Vishnu to Kiyamba. Kiyamba is

the king of Manipur Manipur in 1469 AD. He build the Vishnu temple Lamangdong – named as

Bishenpur or Visnupur.

King Charairongba (reign period 1697-1709 AD) First initiated in Vaishnava (Madvacharyya

order) - 1704 AD (Singh AD (Singh-2: 1987:32). 2: 1987:32). He took initiation from Rai

Banamali (alias Krishnacharyya) from Sweta Ganga area, Puri, Odisha.

King Bhagyachandra took initiation from Rupa-Paramananda goswami before 1763 AD.

Gru parampara of the king is- Sri Chaitanya deva (Puri, 1486-1533 AD) Narottamdas thakur

(Kheturi Convention, 1583 AD) Ganganarayan Chakrabarty (Narottam Parivar, Vaishnava

Missionary, Eastern Bengal) Rupapa Parmananda goswami (Vaishnava Missionary, Srihatta,

Manipur, before 1763 AD) King Bhagyachandra (The initiated king, before 1763 AD)

King Bhagyachandra was a cultural reformer. At Kheturi convention in 1583 – there was Naam

sankirtan, deity worship and shastra charcha. Manipuri dance achieved world level recognition.

The Famous Govindaji Temple of Manipur is the remarkable contribution of Bhagyachandra.

Gambhir Singh dedicated Canchipur (Kanchipur) – the capital of Manipur to Sri Govinda

(Singh-1: 2012: 60).

Gambhir Singh ordered to worship Sri Jagannath along with Sri Govindji, during his reign

Rathayatra (Kang Chingba) started in 1832 AD.

The Vaishnavism of Manipur has passed several levels: Vishnu (Vishnu Temple, Lamangdong)

Rama (Rama Temple) Krishna (Krishna Temple) Govinda (Govindajee Temple) Jagannatha

(Jagannath Achouba) Chaitanya Advaita-Nityananda (Almost in all Manipuri Mandap)

Tripura

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First Vishnu Mandir in Udaypur (Tripura) was built by Raja Rajdhar Manikya (1611-1613 AD,

the 115th king).

Raja Rajdhar Manikya – 1611-1612 – 115th kings – constructed slate stone temple.

Vaishnava Guru Srinivas acharya preached in Kacchar (Tripura) with the help of Vir Hambir, the

king of Vishnupur, Bengal (Chatterjee: 2001: 58).

The Places where Bhagvatam was conducted were called as Bhagavat Tungi in Orissa, Satra in

Assam and mandapa in Manipur.

In North east region among the tribal population performing Yatra and leela( past times of lord

Krishna) were popular culture. Thus they celebrated festivals like chandan Yatra, Snanyatra,

Ratahayatra and enacted past times like 2Impact on culture: The impact of Vaishnavism of

culture may be noticed in major cultural spheres like - Music - Literature - Painting - Performing

art - Sculpture - Architecture

In Assam you can see Srimad Bhagvatam in almost all temples.

The vaishnava-minded Muslims of Bengal The name of SALA BEG (17th century, born in

1607/8 AD) renowned devotional poet, devotee of Sri Jagannath lived pious life as dedicated

Vaishnavas. Haridas thakur - dedicated Vaishnava, chanting Hari-Nam. Sri Chaitanya

Mahaprabhu declared him as ‘Namacharyya’. He declared Sri Chaitanyadeva as the Avatar of Sri

Krishna. Besides, there is band of Muslim poets - ‘Vaishnava minded Muslim poets’ (Baishnava

Bhabapanna Muslaman Kabi). The collection of their poems and lyrics was published from

university of Calcutta (Jyotindramohan Bhattacharyya).

Comparison and bridge of Islam and Vaishnavism

- One God

- Position of devotee – Servant of Lord

- Bhakti Yoga – connection with the supreme

- Position of Jiva – God partical within us – nafatti ..

Speaking on ecessity of resurgence of Vaishnavism, he said that Vaishnavism has taught us that

we have a transcendental destination and we are committed to reach it. Our destination is God,

only God and Almighty God. Tolerance and patience are two mighty qualities that Vaishnavism

advocated. “Trinadapi sunichena, taroriba sahishnuna” - being an eternal message, can resist

conflict and stop bloodshed. The message of modesty is of high moral value when we come

across arrogation almost all walks of life.

Gita teaches us to fight against all odds of life with a sense of non-enmity. Gita’s eternal call like

- “Nirvaira sarvabhuteshu” and “Sama shatrou ca mitre ca” (Gita: 0000: 12/00 and 12/00) can be

treated as axis of non violence. The philosophy of a controlled life (samjatendriya) and

devotional life as preached by the Vaishnava Gurus and Acharyyas, has shown a simple path to

millions of souls who suffered from material enjoyment. Bhagavad Gita knows no religious

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division. Gita treats nobody as Hindu-Muslim-Christians. Gita treats all of us as pure soul

(Atma). Re-union of Atma with Paramatma is the core message that Vaishnavism wants to

convey.

Dr. Madhavi Narsale

Family Relations in Bhagawat Purana

She said that Bhagvat Puran is considered apex scripture of Vaishnavism and is equivalent to

Vedas. This is book of faith and divine participation. Family is a group of people and is basic

institution of socialization. Dealings of family members are very well presented in Bhagvat

Purna. She took theme of various relationships from the Bhagvatam

Father son relation –

i) Veda Vyas’s astonishment when Shukadev renounced. As a father he felt need to

perform ritual and duties.

ii) How coldness of relations turns into love from Dhruva and Uttanpad. Need to interact

and come together.

iii) From Ajamila Akhyana how last glimpse of son Narayan saved Ajamil.

iv) Rishabhadeva discourse to sons on renunciation and spiritual upliftment.

v) Scriptures mentions strained family effect like fight in husband and wife as symptom

of Kaliyuga.

vi) Story of two sons of Bhakti Jnyana and Vairagya. Bhakti become rejuvenated

hearing glories of Lord. But sons get strength from Bhagvat Purana. Lesson of trying

relentlessly to bring family member back to normal.

vii) Sex not taboo but at wrong time it is condemned like Diti and Kashyapa

Husband and wife –

i) How Gandhari as Grihasta and vanapratha followed husband.

Fraternal Relation

i) Gokarna and Dhundukari a ghost who heard Bhagvatam and in seven days seven

knots were snapped and Gokarna succeeded.

ii) How Maruts showed fraternal relation with Indra.

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Son and Mother

i) Narad a son of maid servant serves mother and pain of her death.

ii) Mother Devahuti seeking knowledge from child Kapila. Lesson of removing ego

(Ahamkara) is required for upliftment. It is not wrong to be preached by children.

Age is not matter and we should learn from children.

Relations with elders

i) Seek advice from elder people as their advice is valuable. Yudhishtira always took

advice of seniors like Bhishma. Details of Bhagvatam on teachings of Bhishma are

not like Shanti Parva but with more devotion and less of political advice.

Family relation thought revenge -

I) Ashvathama revenge for death of his father

II) Arjuna’s avenge for his son.

III) Parikshit was cursed due to family relationship by son of Shamik.

IV) Janmajaya also take revenge for death of his father.

Purna highlights that such revenge does not hold good for both party.

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Father daughter –

i) Daughter give pleasure and marriage a important event for Grihasta.

ii) Shatarupa and Manu plays role in marriage of Devahuti and Kardama. Choice is

important.

iii) Daughters of Kardama explained in Bhagvatam although genealogy generally is

paternal.

iv) Marriage of Sukanya daughter of King Sharyati

Other key lessons -

Ikshavaku rejecting son Vikukshi shows wrong results from wrong acts.

Wrong parental upbringing highlighted by example of Duryodhana who leads to fall

down of Kuru.

Good memories play vital role Uddhava’s memories with borther Krishna gives positive

energy of Lord.

Bhagvat Puran does not create rosy picture of society but states that problems are there

and one has to face them.

For Sagara’s sixty thousand son their descendents put so many efforts.

Yayati and Shukra story brings out younger member to save family is exemplified.

Krishna gives pleasure to family and extended family.

Kamsa killing show that extremely bad member of family needs to be killed.

Krishna as ideal brother of Subhadra.

Krishna as good husband brings Parijata for wife.

Puran inspirers to be virtuous and need of establishing dharma.

Puran also highlights collaboration is important for family as social unit.

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PANEL DISCUSSION

Mapping the field of Vaishnava studies

The conference concluded with a Panel Discussion on the topic “Mapping the field of Vaishnava

studies: How to develop the field of Vaishnava studies in India”. DrShubhada Joshi,former HOD

Department of Philosophy, MU, Dr Kala Acharya director of K.J.

SomaiyaBharatiyaSanskritiPeetham, Dr.ShakuntalaGawde Assistant Professor, Department of

Sanskrit, MU andDr Ferdinando Sardella threw light on various ways in which research and

studies in field of Vaishnava studies could be facilitated.

Dr Ferdinando Sardella

Various departments like Sociology, Philosophy, Archaeology, Anthropology, Sanskrit etc. study

Vaishnavism but all of them together as common study is issue.

Possible areas in Vaishnavism that deserve attention

- Ancient history of Vaishnavism and contradictions are areas of interest for research.

- Archaeological dates of Dwarka, Kurukshetra and Indraprastha are of Vaishnav

importance.

- Many excavation during Gupta dynasty

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- Cosmology of Bhagvatam also largely shared by Jainism and Buddhism

- Emergence of Bhakti Tradition in 2nd millennium and rigidity of cast system

- Comparison of Bhakti tradition in North East, South India etc are very less researched.

- Many ancient temples are yet to be explored and understood including temples of Nepal,

Bangladesh and south-east Asia.

- Vaishnav Manuscripts and texts discussions on sentimental vs philosophical

- Vaishnav books and comparison with Islam and Christianity

- Study on rich vaishnav culture like Drama, Art, Architecture and pilgrimage

- Impact of Vaishnavism on society like environment, inclusive approach, relationships,

ethics, service to God, universal brotherhood, chanting of Mantra, Individual problem

vegetarianism etc.

- Reason without religion becomes dry. Such study is complementary to scientific study.

We should see work by Buddhist researcher and scholars.

- Vaishanvism study is neglected much there are not people to answer about Hinduism and

certainly in India there is need. Vaishnavism is such large tradition. Judaism and Sikhism

are also studied out of India.

Dr. Kala Acharya

Shared many points on Vaishnav understanding and philosophy

- How all living being are form His body and we have sacred partial with us

- Vaishnav understanding of Brahman is that we are living in real world.

- Sanctification of life by Prapatti. Self surrender, Egolessness.

- Removing social conflict - Anukulasya sankalpa and pratikulasya varjanam.

- Love towards not only God but to its creation shows that interest of society is important.

- Knowledge transform in love

- Joy of service part of vaishnavism - cleaning and plantation of trees give dimension of

social service.

- Chit and Achit both are sacred and service with spirituality.

- All human being equal for vaishnav. Among Alvars there are also poor, low class people

and woman. Thus Philosophy is not only in words but in practise.

- Vaishnav saints of Maharashtra also belong from various lower sections of society.

- Vaishnav books like Eknathi bhagvat, Abhangs promoted use of local languages.

- Systematic manuals for vaishnav practices are very well planned.

- How Vadakallai and Tenakallai both can give success. (case of cub of monkey vs kitten

and cat)

- Ramanuja’s explanation of Brahman is inclusive and easily accessible to people.

- Vaishnavism teaches how we do not fall for temptation.

Ramanuja’s advice to his disciple on death bad are important for interfaith –

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She said there are three types of people

i) Anukula – Those who have faith in God – Rejoice their meeting as if your kith and

kin,

ii) Pratikula – Those who are Anti-God – Dread as if you have seen reptile

iii) Anubhaya – Indifferent people - Don’t mind them just like stone.

If last two have willingness try to bring them on life of spirituality. Pity them don’t hate

them.

- For taking vaishnavism to masses approach by Loka Kala can be used. Loka Kala is

taught to people and there are not very strict regulation in university. Art is a good media

to propagate.

Dr. Shubhada joshi

- Varkari of Maharashtra is a Bhagvat Sampradaya.

- Justice mahadev Govind Ranade in 19th century talks about nava bhagvata sampradaya.

- In field of knowledge we should explore why, how and for whom Vaishnavism is needed.

Two centres created by department of Philosophy –

1. Jaina academy research in 1993 – It focused on architecture, Prakrut language.

2. Centre for Vallabha Vedanta was created in 2003 - it also focus on study of

vaishnavism and give holistic perspectives.

- Vaishnavism is strong thread which united India and gave cultural strength. Young

generation think it is irrelevant and only applicable in family relations. But answers to

modern questions one find in cultural areas. Many answers to these modern questions are not

available up to expected level.

- Vaishnav cultural aspects includes songs, arts, archaeology and history thus inter disciplinary

approach should be taken for study.

- In Maharashtra Vaishnav study along with Varkari will be better. They contributed

immensely to the land and it is neglected by those who work in the area of knowledge.

Efforts to make it available to all people required may be by short term courses.

- Few characteristic of Varkari – Vishnumayajaga. Vrikshavalli ama soyari vanachari.

Principles of Varkari is same is in NE and Tamil areas where they sing in local languages

such principles. Lot of content of Bhakti tradition was composed when Sanskrit was high

class language.

- Eknath Bhagvat is used by varkari. His son did not appreciated because it was in vernacular

language. But in Varanasi scholars they took Marathi version in Palaki and Eknath was

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felicitated then son got astonished. Bhavartha Dipika another literature which brought

transformation in life of people.

- Utility of philosophy shows how it gave equal status to lowclass and woman. There are Dindi

only for woman. Hardly any cast distinctions are practiced.

- Problem is that what is in spiritual domain is not in social domain but it can reach to people.

We need to make it interesting so that people will willingly accept it.

- Gyaneshvar is follows Advaita philosophy but also says that Saguna Bhakti is required.

Person and ideas are important than the ritual.

Ideas on facilitating Study of Vaishnavism

- Study of Vaishnavism is better if done in inter disciplinary way. See how people of Marathi

and other languages looking at Vaishavism and how historian, archaeological people are

looking at it.

- Take project on impact by saints in Maharashtra. Justice Ranade mentions that work of saints

made land ready for Maratha power. Their work made nation more human and more

tolerable

- Plans of reconciliation with Islam and Christianity would help study of Vaishnavism.

- Study how love and faith replace dogma and built nation of higher capacity.

- Short courses on Vaishnavism in simpler way can be helpful. We need to justify why are we

doing this course?

Make them interesting why one should join to such courses?

- Discussion on text and how it is to be studied makes things interesting. Students say that we

enjoy because we never thought it to be this way, it opened our mind.

- Preserving tradition also requires contributors of domain. If Infra is provided by any group

and study is taken forward it is a win-win for all university also benefits from it and learner

also.

- Vaishnavism is way of living, so many changes this tradition has adapted and thus it is living

tradition.

- Course on Vipashyana started by university with Pali language now this language became a

department.

- Prakrat was studied by small group but now this language study is also increasing. Such

progress increase of horizon is joy.

- Many research institute study Vaishnavism but connectivity is required. Around Mumbai five

institute are there and there is need of academic dialog with a road map.

VOTE OF THANKS

Dr Vinayak Dalvie, an eminent academician and OSD for the Mumbai University congratulated

ISKCON for organizing this conference and initiating a new field of research on Vaishnavism.

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A concluding Vote of Thanks was presented by Dr. Rambhau Badode, Professor, Department of

English, University of Mumbai. Special thanks were offered to Dr. SnehalDonde, Principal,

Halary Visa Oswal College and DrSumantaRudra, Director of BhaktivedantaVidyapitha

Research Center who played pivotal role in conceiving and organizing the conference. Overall

the conference registered novel ideas and inspiration on how the knowledge and art rich tradition

of Vaishnavism could help contribute to the social, cultural, scientific, economic and ecological

wealth of humanity.

NEWS COVERAGE

http://www.uniindia.com/international-conference-on-relevance-of-vaishnavism-in-21st-century-

tomorrow-in-mumbai/other/news/921723.html

http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/relevance-of-vaishnavism-discussed-at-conference-in-

mumbai/1/996142.html

http://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/relevance-of-vaishnavism-discussed-at-conference-

in-mumbai-117070601548_1.html

http://www.dnaindia.com/lifestyle/report-relevance-of-vaishnavism-discussed-at-conference-in-mumbai-

2494381

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