Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Aug 6: The Balraj Puri Memorial lecture titled “Indian Nationalism and its future” ” was delivered by Yogendra Yadav, here today.
The lecture was organized by Institute of J&K Affairs, Jammu at the J&K Academy of Arts, Languages and Culture to celebrate late Balraj Puri’s eighty eighth birth anniversary.
Speaking on the topic, Swaraj Abhiyan leader Yogendra Yadav said that the debate over nationalism in India over the last two-years has been fought by two sides that have distorted the inclusive and indigenous character of Indian Nationalism that was earlier an inspiring force of social cohesion for the country. “On one side is the cosmopolitan elite of India that is divorced from the socio-political realities of the country and on the other side a narrow definition of nationalism is being advocated,” he said, and added that both strands of nationalism are imported and don’t reflect the complex realities of pluralistic India.
Mr Yadav stressed the need for progressive minded people to adopt a more grassroot oriented strategy with a better understanding of local lexicon and problems of the people so that their message can resonate with the masses. “The need is also to popularize the Indian Constitution through the instrument of popular imagination. This will build the notion of rights that include minority rights.”
Before the lecture, Lalit Mangotra, well known Dogri writer, recalled the contributions of late Puri and focused on his leading role in Dogri movement.
In her welcome address, Professor Ellora Puri touched upon the activities of institute and the life of its founder late Balraj Puri. She stated that the institute was the pioneer in initiating civil society debates on various themes including federalism and issues related to J&K.
Earlier, floral tributes were paid to Balraj Puri by dignitaries and family members present there.
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