DAKSHINAPATHA THROUGH THE AGES: GLORY OF BHARAT

The National Seminar on Dakshinapatha Through the Ages – Glory of Bharat emerged as a magnificent confluence of historical inquiry, cultural celebration, and scholarly brilliance. Meticulously organized by Akhila Bharata Itihasa Sankalana Yojana (ABISY) and Itihas Sankalan Samithi (Bharateeya), Telangana State, the three-day intellectual extravaganza commenced with ceremonial grandeur on March 15, 2025, at the prestigious Telangana State Cooperative Apex Bank Training Centre, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad.

This remarkable gathering brought together luminaries of historical research, distinguished scholars, and honored dignitaries to illuminate the resplendent legacy of Dakshinapatha — a region that has served as the crucible of wisdom, valor, and cultural magnificence since antiquity.

Dawn of Discourse: Inaugural Splendor
The inaugural session unfolded as a ceremonial spectacle, presided over by Shri Jishnu Dev Varma, Hon’ble Governor of Telangana, whose distinguished presence bestowed gravitas upon the proceedings. The seminar’s prestige was further elevated by Shri L.V. Subrahmanyam, IAS, former Chief Secretary, Govt. of Andhra Pradesh, who graced the event as the Guest of Honour. The keynote address, delivered with eloquence by the erudite Dr. Sharad Hebalkar, established the intellectual foundation for subsequent deliberations, complemented by the profound insights shared by Prof. Y. Sudershan Rao.

The post-lunch session transformed into an intellectual banquet, featuring illuminating presentations by acclaimed scholars, including Dr. Balmukund Pandey, Giridhar Mamidi, Dr. Annadanam Subrahmanyam, and Justice Bhaskar Rao. Following a refreshing tea interval, the discourse continued with sagacious contributions from Dr. Aravind Jamkhedkar, Prof. Manikyamba, Prof. Somasundar Rao, Dr. N. S. Ramachandra Murthy, Dr. P. V. Prabhakar Rao, and Prof. Mudigonda Shiva Prasad. Their presentations meticulously traced Dakshinapatha’s historical continuum across epochs, encompassing domains as diverse as literature, medicine, astronomical research, artistic traditions, mathematical innovations, and beyond.

Twilight Enchantment: Cultural Revelry
As dusk descended, attendees were immersed in a mesmerizing cultural extravaganza, headlined by the electrifying Perini Nrutyam — Telangana’s legendary warrior dance, pulsating with primal energy and martial elegance. The evening reached its crescendo with a riveting historical drama portraying the valiant Musunuri dynasty — the fearless Telugu rulers who staunchly resisted foreign incursions in the 14th century. The performance breathed life into historical narratives through captivating theatrical brilliance.

Scholarly Panorama: The Intellectual Journey Continues
The second day unfurled with a succession of scholarly sessions chaired by eminent academics, including Prof. V. Kishan Rao, Dr. Raja Reddy, and Prof. Nagendra Rao. Discussions traversed an expansive intellectual terrain, from ancient historical chronicles to the socio-cultural evolution of Dakshinapatha.

An assembly of scholarly virtuosos, including Prof. Arvind Jamkedkar, Dr. Kusuma Bai, Dr. Seema Upadhyaya, and Dr. P. V. Radhakrishnan, enthralled the audience with their profound research insights. The afternoon session, masterfully orchestrated by Prof. Nagendra Rao, featured compelling expositions by Dr. Shivakumar, Dr. Meenakshi Gogo, Dr. Ajith, and Ms. Shailaja, followed by a vibrant general discussion where academic luminaries such as Prof. K. Vijaya Babu, Dr. Ajaya Lakshmi, Smt. Usha Mudigonda, and Sri Kalyan Chakravarthi meticulously examined Dakshinapatha’s enduring cultural imprint.

Crescendo of Wisdom: Valedictory Grandeur
The majestic valedictory ceremony on March 17 was graced by Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati, Hon’ble Governor of Odisha, as the Chief Guest, conferring exceptional dignity upon the proceedings. The culminating function was further distinguished by the presence of Prof. Y. Sudershan Rao, former Chairman, ICHR, New Delhi, Ma Hemanth Dhing Majumdar, National General Secretary, ABISY, and Ma Shri Sanjay Kumar Mishra, Rashtriya Sah Sanghatan Sachiv, ABISY, who enriched the discourse with their profound perspectives.

Presiding over this grand finale was Prof. V. Kishan Rao, President of ISSBT and National Vice-President of ABISY, New Delhi, who masterfully synthesized the seminar’s intellectual odyssey, highlighting its pivotal discussions and invaluable scholarly contributions.

Heritage Rekindled: The Eternal Flame Burns Brighter
The National Seminar on Dakshinapatha Through the Ages – Glory of Bharat transcended the boundaries of a conventional academic gathering; it emerged as a radiant homage to the timeless wisdom, valor, and cultural magnificence of Dakshinapatha.

Throughout three extraordinary days, the seminar unleashed a torrent of insights, rekindling the flame of historical consciousness and reaffirming the region’s unparalleled contributions to Bharat’s civilizational ethos. The distinguished presence of scholars, historians, and eminent dignitaries infused the proceedings with unparalleled gravitas, establishing it as a landmark intellectual congregation.

As this extraordinary symposium drew to a close, it kindled a resurgent pride in our collective heritage. The revelations unveiled, the knowledge exchanged, and the cultural celebrations witnessed served as beacons, illuminating pathways for future explorations into Dakshinapatha’s rich historical tapestry.

This grand confluence has planted seeds for forthcoming scholarly endeavors, ensuring that Dakshinapatha’s legacy continues to inspire generations. The journey continues — not as a conclusion but as another magnificent stride in the eternal march of Bharat’s glorious past toward an ever-luminous future.

Bhuvaneswari BNS
M.A. (English)