Patiala: A three day International Seminar by Professor Harbans Singh Department of Encyclopaedia of Sikhism, Punjabi University, Patiala, began on the theme Religious Understanding and Social Harmony. Aimed at discussing on the need of interfaith understanding in the present day situation to turn towards social harmony is the main objective of this Seminar. Eminent scholars and dignitaries from different countries participated in this three day Conclave.
Dr. Jaspal Singh, Vice-Chancellor, gave the Presidential Address. While focusing on the issue he said that religious values enlighten the path of righteous and universal norms of society wherein there is no place for cruelty and bigotry. Religious values illuminate as to how peace and harmony could be enjoyed while having different religions, cultures and races. Interfaith dialogue plays an important role in this direction. It spreads a genuine level of understanding among the people. Sincere efforts are required for acquiring the true spirit of religion based on scriptures.
While presenting his views in the Inaugural address Jan Brzezinski said that everybody has a lens of his own understanding which creates a conflict in the society. The true understanding of religion can remove the differences among the masses.
Prof. D.A. Gangadhar in his keynote address stressed the need of social harmony on the basis of religion. He further said that since religion affects many social phenomena, therefore, attempts be made to develop the concept of co-existence of religions with an attitude of respecting each other's view points.
Dr. Paramvir Singh, Head of the Department, convened the program. Dr. Jodh Singh Editor-in-Chief, Encyclopaedia of Sikhism, welcome all the dignitaries from India and different countries, faculty members, students from the Department of Religious Studies and Gurmat College, Patiala. Dr. A.S. Chawala, Registrar, Punjabi University, Patiala, proposed the vote of thanks.