Srinagar, April 03: A three- day International Conference on “Common Human Values in Sufism and other Religious Thoughts in India” was organised by Centre of Central Asian Studies (CCAS) University of Kashmir in collaboration with Bedil International Foundation, New Delhi at India Islamic Cultural Centre, New Delhi.
Scholars, faculty members, delegates, and students, drawn from South Africa, New Zealand, Afghanistan, Iran participated in the event.
Furthermore, scholars from prominent institutions of India including JNU, Delhi University, JMI, University of Kashmir, Osmania University and Lucknow University participated and presented their papers in the conference.
The inaugural function was presided over by Prof. Lokesh Chandra, former Chairman ICCR, New Delhi while as Prof. Talat Ahmad, Vice Chancellor University of Kashmir was Chief Guest on the valedictory function of the conference.
Prof. Talat Ahmad in his address referred to the civilizational and cultural profile of India that emerged as the result of prominent Sufis and saints in shaping its cultural diversity.
Sufis and saints Prof. Talat Ahmad said promoted universal brotherhood and co-existence that subsequently shaped the history of subcontinent.
He also applauded the role of Centre of Central Asian Studies, KU in organising events of contemporary significance
Prof. Shahid Mehdi, former Vice Chancellor Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI) and Dr. Ehsanullah Shokrallahi, Director, Persian Research Institute, Iran Culture House, New Delhi were Guests of Honour.
Mohammad Shafi Pandith (IAS) former Chairman Public Service Commission and Chairman Bedil International Foundation presided over the function.
Prof. Shahid Mehdi deliberated upon the history of emergence of composite culture enriched from time to time by Sufi saints.
Dr. Ehsanullah Shokrallahi, special guest on the occasion in his address highlighted the mystical dimensions of Bedil’s thought and its relevance for the promotion of peace and prosperity in the contemporary world.
Prof. G. N. Khaki, Director, CCAS gave an overview of the academic sessions of the conference and formally welcomed the guests. Prof. Qamar Gaffar Secretary General Bedil International Foundation presented vote of thanks. Dr. Abid Gulzar, Assistant Professor CCAS coordinated the event.
