New Delhi: The BAPS Swaminarayan Research Institute, located at Swaminarayan Akshardham, New Delhi, successfully organized a one-day national conference themed “Prayers in Hindu Texts: Philosophical, Literary, and Devotional Dimensions.” This prestigious academic event was attended by scholars, researchers, and students from universities and institutions across the country, who presented their original perspectives and research papers on the esoteric meanings of prayer in Hindu texts.

Inauguration and Key Addresses

The conference commenced with the traditional lighting of the lamp (Deep Pragatya), prayers, and Vedic chants. Following this, Pujya Dr. Gyanananddas Swami welcomed the esteemed guests on the dais and all participants, elucidating the philosophical necessity and significance of the conference’s main theme.

Gracing the stage were distinguished academics, including:

• Prof. Murli Manohar Pathak (Vice Chancellor, Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri National Sanskrit University)
• Prof. Shiv Shankar Mishra (Vice Chancellor, Maharshi Panini Sanskrit and Vedic University)
• Prof. D. Balaganapathi (Professor of Philosophy, University of Delhi)
• Prof. Upendra Rao (Professor, School of Sanskrit and Indic Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University)
• Prof. Om Nath Bimli (Head, Sanskrit Department, University of Delhi)
• Prof. Bhartendu Pandey (Professor, Department of Sanskrit, University of Delhi)
• Prof. Bhagat Oinam (Professor, Centre for Philosophy, Jawaharlal Nehru University)

They shared their insights on the importance of prayer in the Hindu tradition.

Mahamahopadhyay Pujya Bhadreshdas Swami (Head, BAPS Swaminarayan Research Institute), explained the conference’s objective in detail through a video message. He described prayer as an essential and powerful medium for spiritual development, character building, and the attainment of liberation (moksha).

Research Presentations

The second and main session of the conference featured scholars presenting their original research papers based on various ancient and medieval Hindu texts. These papers encompassed different dimensions of prayer, including hymns of praise in the Vedas, complete surrender and divine love in Bhakti literature, and the psychological impact of prayer.

Key presenters included:

• Prof. Rajjan Kumar (Professor, Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Rohilkhand University)
• Dr. Narendrakumar Pandya (Principal, Shri Somnath Sanskrit University)
• Smt. Shalini Saraswat (Sanskrit Teacher, Mother’s International School)
• Prof. Upendra Rao (Professor, Jawaharlal Nehru University)

These presentations paved the way for meaningful and profound discussions on the subject matter.

Conclusion and Vote of Thanks

Certificates were presented to all participants at the conclusion of the conference. Finally, Smt. Himani Mehta extended a heartfelt vote of thanks to all the scholars, participants, and institute members who contributed to the success of the event.

About the BAPS Swaminarayan Research Institute:

The BAPS Swaminarayan Research Institute is a prestigious academic and research center located at Swaminarayan Akshardham, New Delhi. It is dedicated to advancing quality research, learning, and expression in all forms of academic scholarship, with the aim of presenting ancient knowledge in modern contexts and enriching the academic world.