Chief guest and scholar Rajiv Malhotra emphasizes the pioneering ideas of Indian civilization; and Guest of Honor Dr Vivek Kaul says the book is written in the most logical manner which can be understood by any person
Our Bureau
New Delhi
The packed Dr BR Ambedkar Auditorium at the Delhi Technological University in New Delhi listened in rapt attention to Major General Gagandeep Bakshi (retired) when he delivered an insightful speech after the launch of his book titled, ‘A History of Hinduism: An Inside the Tradition View’ here on Tuesday (August 27). On this occasion were present many luminaries, including Prof Prateek Sharma, Vice Chancellor, DTU; Prof Madhusudan Singh, Registrar DTU; Chief Guest Rajiv Malhotra and the Guest of Honor, Dr Vivek Kaul.
After the event, Maj Gen Bakshi (retd.) posted on X, “We released my book a History of Hinduism at the Delhi Technological University Auditorium today. Grateful to the VC Dr Pratik Sharma and Dr Gautam for organising the houseful function. Rajiv Malhotra was the chief guest along with Dr Kaul and Col Kini.
The students listened with keen interest to lecture on a book on Indian philosophy. Hinduism is based on EXPERIENTIAL SPIRITUALISM on “Anubhav, Anubhuti and Darshan” and not some blind belief or dogma, said the author. “It wants us to verify the great truths in our own beings. We need to return to our roots in the Vedas. We need to grow Patches of Tapovan forests in each village, town and city where we can practise meditation. Forests will help reverse global warming, cool the earth and calm our minds,” he said.
To a packed house, full of esteemed guests, students at Delhi Technological University and NCC cadets, Maj Gen Bakshi (retd.) delivered a power-packed lecture on Hinduism, its origin, how it got impacted due to foreign invasion and its revitalization.
“Hinduism is the oldest religion on this planet. It is the third most practised religion in the world. It has survived and remained intact and rejuvenated itself time and again.” Maj Gen Bakshi further said, “What is the way to experience the truth in our beings? It is via Yoga and meditation, the two most quintessential practices of Hinduism. Indian term for Hinduism is Santana Dharma, the eternal faith or eternal truth,” the author said.
Maj Gen Bakshi (retd.) said that the Vedas are the original source of Hinduism, which “many of the younger generation would not even know”. He beautifully described the idea of consciousness within human beings, which is the same as in any other particles or matter. He received a thunderous applause from the audience which included young students from the University and NCC cadets.
The writer said that through radioactive carbon dating technique, samples as old as 9,500-year-old have been found and women in our country used to put Bindi on their foreheads, bangles and even vermillion, a practice which continues till date.
Speaking at the occasion, Rajiv Malhotra, the chief guest and the India-born American ideologue and renowned author, said, “The history of any civilizations should give us an opportunity to know its weaknesses and strengths. India was the pioneer in the fields of science, health, arts but now we are the importers of know-how. We can call ourselves Vishwaguru only when we pioneer many fields.”
Talking about the book, Dr Vivek Kaul, an eminent surgeon, said, “This book is written in the most logical manner which can be understood by any person.”
The auditorium erupted into many NCC claps. The young students were visibly engrossed in the speech given by Maj Gen Bakshi (retd.).
The combat veteran who has authored some 45 books wears many hats, including being the editor of the prestigious journal Indian Military Review. He was born in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh. After his schooling, he went to the National Defense Academy at Khadakwasla, Pune, and was later commissioned into the Army after passing out of IMA, Dehradun in November 1971.
During his illustrious career, Maj Gen Bakshi (retd,) commanded the 6 Jammu and Kashmir Rifles. He was awarded the Vishisht Seva Medal for commanding a battalion in Kaksar, under Drass, Kargil sector during the 1987 border conflict. Later, he was awarded the Sena Medal for distinguished service in commanding a battalion during counter-insurgency operations.
