A significant international gathering of scholars and thinkers is set to take place in Rajasthan this December. The three-day International Conference Rushabhayan 2024 will delve deep into the life, teachings, and enduring legacy of King Rushabhdev, revered as the pioneer of Indian civilization and the first Tirthankara in Jain tradition.
Conference Details and Distinguished Participants
The conference is scheduled to be held from December 19 to December 21, 2024. The event will see participation from a diverse array of eminent personalities. Dr. Lokesh Chandra, a renowned scholar and president of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), will inaugurate the proceedings. The valedictory session will be addressed by Justice (Retd.) Gopal Prasad Garg.
Organized by the Rushabhayan International Forum, the conference will be hosted at the Maharana Bhupal Auditorium of Mohanlal Sukhadia University in Udaipur. This choice of venue underscores the academic and cultural significance of the event. The forum's president, Dr. Rajendra Bhandari, emphasized that the conference aims to present a comprehensive and research-based perspective on King Rushabhdev's contributions to human civilization.
Exploring the Legacy of the First King
The core mission of Rushabhayan 2024 is to shed light on the multifaceted legacy of King Rushabhdev. Historical and religious texts credit him with establishing the foundations of a structured society. He is traditionally recognized as India's first king who laid the groundwork for key aspects of civilization.
According to the provided information, his pioneering contributions include:
- Instituting the system of law and justice.
- Establishing the concept of marriage and family structure.
- Creating the first organized army for protection.
- Developing agriculture and farming techniques.
- Introducing various arts, crafts, and vocational skills to society.
The conference will feature detailed discussions and paper presentations on these themes, exploring how his teachings remain relevant in the contemporary world. Scholars are expected to examine his role in shaping early social, economic, and spiritual frameworks.
A Confluence of Academia and Spirituality
This event is poised to be a unique confluence of academic research and spiritual discourse. By bringing together historians, archaeologists, Jain scholars, and philosophers, the conference seeks to bridge the gap between scriptural knowledge and historical inquiry. The focus on King Rushabhdev as a civilizational pioneer moves beyond purely theological discussion, positioning him as a central figure in the narrative of India's ancient socio-cultural development.
The holding of such a conference in Udaipur, a city steeped in royal history and cultural heritage, adds a layer of symbolic resonance. It highlights Rajasthan's ongoing role as a custodian and promoter of India's diverse historical narratives.
The Rushabhayan International Conference 2024 represents a serious effort to re-evaluate and promote the understanding of a foundational figure in Indian history. It promises to contribute valuable insights to the fields of Indology, ancient history, and religious studies, fostering a deeper appreciation for the origins of Indian civilization.
