Dr Diganta Biswa Sarma, recipient of the Sahitya Akademi Translation Award and renowned expert in Indian Culture and Philosophy, is set to deliver a series of 20 lectures at the Indian Institute of Technology-IIT Guwahati.
As an Expert Faculty Member, Dr Sarma will lead the course organised by IIT Guwahati’s Centre for Indian Knowledge Systems. Titled – Ishopanishad for the Modern Age through the Lens of Sri Aurobindo – the lectures will delve into the profound teachings of the ‘Ishavasyopanishad’.
Commencing in August 2024, the course will be conducted in both English and Assamese, providing participants with a comprehensive understanding of the key concepts encapsulated within the ancient text.
The course, spanning 20 weeks from August 15, will feature 40 one-hour lectures conducted by esteemed scholar Dr Diganta Biswa Sarma.
A distinguishing aspect of this program is its integration of technology demonstrations, enhancing participants’ learning experience. Every Sunday, two lectures will be held, preferably from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm, followed by lunch and engaging technology showcases.
Designed for faculty and students from various colleges and universities across Assam, the course aims to foster deep insights into Indian philosophical traditions. Organised by Centre for Indian Knowledge Systems Head Professor Uday Shanker Dixit and Humanities and Social Sciences Department Head Professor Sukanya Sharma, the course is structured to be self-sustaining and has been registered as a consultancy project in the Industrial Interactions and Special Initiatives (II&SI) section of the institute.
It is noteworthy Dibrugarh University Professor of Practice Dr Sarma is a Sahitya Akademy Translation Awardee and a devotee of Sri Aurobindo. Born into a notable family, he attained academic excellence in his schooling and higher education, earning accolades and scholarships. His primary leadership roles such as Magazine Secretary and General Secretary during his student days reflected his commitment to extracurricular activities.
The Ishavasya Upanishad also referred to as the Isha Upanishad, stands out as one of the most concise yet deeply insightful texts within the extensive corpus of ancient Indian philosophical literature known as the Upanishads. Consisting of just 18 verses, it holds a significant place in the Shukla Yajurveda and is regarded as a foundational text exploring the core tenets of Vedanta, the philosophical underpinning of Hinduism.
Addressing pivotal aspects of human existence, the Ishavasya Upanishad delves into themes such as the nature of ultimate reality (Brahman) and the journey toward realising one’s true self (atman). Despite its brevity, the profound wisdom contained within its verses has captivated scholars and spiritual seekers alike, prompting them to delve into its teachings and contemplate its relevance in the contemporary world.
