Ancient Wisdom Key to Addressing Modern Challenges, Say Experts at Varanasi Symposium

Varanasi, November 2 (Daily Kiran) : A three-day global symposium titled “Ancient Knowledge for Modern Challenges” took place in Varanasi, highlighting the significance of age-old traditions in addressing current issues. Scholars and experts from around the world gathered to discuss the importance of engaging with these traditions, particularly in dialogue with youth.

The event featured a keynote address by Dr. Preeti Adani, chairperson of the Adani Foundation, who advocated for the relevance of ancient wisdom in contemporary problem-solving. “Ancient knowledge is valuable not simply because it is old, but because we recognize its relevance to today’s issues,” she stated.

Dr. Adani called for the preservation of civilizational knowledge to combat problems like inequality and conflict. Chiara Robiano, an associate professor of philosophy at Utrecht University in the Netherlands, emphasized the importance of interpersonal interaction. “We must spend time together and understand that our identities are shaped by our experiences with one another. Through dialogue, we emerge as new individuals,” she noted.

Professor Zahra MacDonald from the University of Pretoria highlighted the need to incorporate these cultures into modern education. “While focusing on subjects like math and literacy is essential, we cannot overlook the value of these ancient teachings,” she said.

Jeffrey Sachs, president of the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network, remarked on the significant role of the Adani Group in India’s rapid economic growth. “The infrastructure development led by this major business group is crucial for India, which is currently one of the fastest-growing major economies in the world,” he explained.

American philosopher Thaddeus Metz pointed out that drawing lessons from ancient traditions can be beneficial in addressing contemporary problems, as they contain valuable insights. “If a tradition of thought has remained relevant for centuries, it surely holds important ideas related to the human condition and improving our circumstances,” he asserted.

Gauri Mahulikar, academic director of the Chinmaya International Foundation, shared a personal reflection on familial connections, suggesting that fostering such feelings could reduce conflict. “Just as families once had many members, we should develop a sense of kinship with one another to eliminate strife,” she said.

Nirupam Bajpai, an economist and professor at Columbia University, explained why Varanasi was chosen for this symposium. “This is the third edition of our conference, previously held in Greece and China. Varanasi, with its deep connections to Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism, is the perfect host for this event,” he stated.

Bajpai expressed confidence that there is no better place than Varanasi for this gathering, which aims to center discussions around these three religions.