2 day international seminar on Kashmir Shaivism concludes

Acharya Kamlesh Jha from Banaras University delivering lecture during International Seminar on Kashmir Shaivism at Jammu University on Saturday. Excelsior/Rakesh
Acharya Kamlesh Jha from Banaras University delivering lecture during International Seminar on Kashmir Shaivism at Jammu University on Saturday. Excelsior/Rakesh

Scholars highlight niceties of Trika philosophy

Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Mar 18: The two -day International Seminar on Kashmir Shaivism held at Jammu University concluded today with scholars from different parts of country and students of various institutions including Sanskrit Department of Jammu University highlighting the niceties of Trika philosophy of Kashmir and theory of non dualism propounded by it.
The speakers made special reference to great scholars of Kashmir Shaivism including Vasavgupt, Utpaldev, Abhinavgupt, Kshmedar, Batkalat, Somanand etc saying that they made a special contribution to Indian Darhshan Shastra and aesthetics. They said the Kashmir Shaivshastra is directly linked to Rishi Durvasa.
Prof Jagir Singh in his thought provoking lecture on Kashmir Shaivshastra and Trika philosophy said great scholars from Kashmir have made a tremendous contribution and as the Safron from Valley makes fragrant atmosphere all over the world so does Kashmiri Shaivism.
The scholars also highlighted the contribution of Swami Lakshman Joo the great Shivacharya of 20th century who made a tremendous contribution in its revival and dissemination across the world. The establishment of institute of Kashmir Shaivism is also one of his great contribution in preserving this rich philosophy and taking the legacy forward.
Dr Ramesh Bhat a well known scholar and Professor Government GGM Science College Jammu read his paper on Trika Philosophy of Kashmir and enlightenment to God realisation on the occasion.
The scholars said that entire universe is Lord Shiva and he is only truth in this universe. They said that Swami Lakshman Joo had said that Kashmir Shiv philosophy should reach every nook and corner of the world. He translated all granths in English so that people could understand it.
Other prominent scholars who spoke during today’s sessions included Dr Anil Kumar Tiwari from SMVDU, Katra, Suchita Pathania, Prof Ram Pratap, Dr Parshotam Sharma, ex HoD, Pran Nath Kaul from HP University. The sessions were chaired by Acharaya Kamlesh Jha of Banaras Hindu University.
The stage was managed by Kusum Tickoo. It may be recalled that during the seminar two books one written by George Barselar from Australia and another by Dr Manju Verma were released. The George’s book is a complete work on Tantra Loka.
Speaking on the occasion, Vijay Kumar Koul, secretary Kashmir Shiva Institute said that “We organsie programmes so that younger generation knows what is Kashmir Shiva philosophy. He said this philosophy is a practical way of life”. He also highlighted the various steps taken by the Kashmir Shiva institute in taking it to younger generation.