Lucknow,

14 May (HS): A distinguished book launch ceremony for “Sharda Peeth: First

Wisdom University of the World”—a scholarly work exploring India’s ancient

knowledge systems, Sharda civilization, and cultural heritage—was held at the Gulmohar

Hall, India Habitat Centre. The event brought together eminent saints,

scholars, academicians, writers, social thinkers, and distinguished guests from

across the country. The book, authored by noted scholar-researchers Khwaja

Farooq Renzushah and Prof. Geeta Singh, has been published by Suruchi

Prakashan, a publishing house engaged for over five decades in works related to

India’s civilizational, cultural, and intellectual traditions.

Sharda

Peeth as a Civilizational Symbol: In her address, Prof. Geeta Singh highlighted

Sharda Peeth, believed to have been established nearly 2500 years ago in

present-day Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, as one of the earliest global centers of

learning. She described it as a “temple of knowledge” that nurtured Sanskrit,

philosophy, and grammar, and played a crucial role in shaping the intellectual

landscape of North India. She further noted that the Sharda script emerged from

this tradition and remained a key medium of knowledge transmission for centuries.

Referring to ancient institutions such as Takshashila, Nalanda, and Sharda

Peeth, she called them enduring pillars of India’s spiritual and intellectual

heritage. Quoting

the vision of the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, she emphasized the need

to revive India’s cultural and intellectual traditions, stating that the

present book serves as an important contribution toward that mission.

Kashmir

as Land of Spiritual Knowledge: Co-author Khwaja Renzushah described Kashmir as

a historic land of sages and spiritual masters. He referred to great

philosophers such as Nagarjuna, Vasugupta, and Abhinavagupta, who enriched its

intellectual heritage. He remarked that while invaders such as Alexander passed

through history, the civilizational essence of Kashmir has remained timeless

and resilient.

Keynote

Address: Ethics, Dharma, and Civilizational Thought - Delivering the keynote address, former

Governor and Union Minister Arif Mohammad Khan drew upon the Mahabharata’s Vana

Parva, citing the dialogue between Yudhishthira and the Yaksha. He recited the

well-known verse: “तर्कोऽप्रतिष्ठःश्रुतयोविभिन्ना, नासावृषिर्यस्यमतंनभिन्नम्।

धर्मस्यतत्त्वंनिहितंगुहायां, महाजनोयेनगतःसपन्थाः॥”

He

explained that ultimate truth cannot be established solely through logic or

singular scriptural authority. Instead, he emphasized that dharma is deeply

rooted in ethical conduct and collective wisdom, and the path followed by

virtuous and responsible individuals in society serves as a guiding principle.

He

also reflected on the influence of Swami Ranganathananda and his work Eternal

Values for a Changing Society, stating that knowledge must not only be acquired

but also shared. He further referenced the philosophical insights of

Rabindranath Tagore and Francis Bacon, concluding his address with the

universal prayer, “May all be happy.”

Knowledge,

Courage, and Character Building: Indresh Kumar stressed that education must go

beyond information and foster courage, discipline, and moral strength.

Recalling his experiences in Jammu and Kashmir, he remarked that cultural

traditions such as Sharda heritage instill fearlessness and resolve. The

audience resonated with chants of “Jai Saraswati, Jai Bharat.”

Sanatan

Dharma and Civilizational Identity: Swami Rajrajeshwarashram Ji Maharaj stated

that Sanatan Dharma is eternal, beyond temporal classifications of new or old.

He described religion as the foundational essence of Indian civilization and

urged a philosophical rethinking of constitutional terminology, advocating the

replacement of the term “secular” with a more culturally rooted expression.

Publication

Vision and Closing Remarks: Rajiv Tuli described the publication as inspired by

cultural and ideological commitment, stating that Kashmir remains a shared

civilizational heritage. The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by

Rajneesh Mittal. In the welcome address, organizers emphasized that the book is

not merely a historical account but a scholarly attempt to revive India’s

intellectual consciousness and cultural identity. Scholars and attendees widely

appreciated its academic depth and relevance, particularly for researchers,

students, and readers engaged with Indian philosophy, civilization, and

heritage studies.

Hindusthan Samachar / Abhishek Awasthi