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Abhijnana key note on March 3

By KESLS RAM

Ladies and Gentlemen,


Welcome to the Delhi Workshop Abhijnana, held on the 3rd and 4th of March, 2025. Today, I am honored to share with you insights from our rich cultural heritage, drawing analogies from nature that hold deep significance in our lives.


Let us begin with the auspicious symbols in Bharat: the leaves, trunk, and fruits of three important trees. Each of these elements reflects our values and traditions, serving as reminders of our connection to nature and our cultural roots.


Firstly, let's consider the banana tree. The banana tree symbolizes the importance of being a good example and practicing what we preach. Just as the banana tree provides nourishment and sustenance, we must embody the values of acharya and kula dharma. My father, Sri Easwara Iyer who was a teacher at ER High School as role model, exemplified this principle in his actions and teachings.


Next, we have the coconut tree, representing the concept of guru kula vasa. This analogy emphasizes the significance of a pedagogy that extends beyond mere instruction to mentoring and coaching. Dr. Art Ong Jumsai in Thailand demonstrates this beautifully with his model school in Lamnarai, where students receive holistic education and guidance.


The mango tree, our third symbol, stands for viswa guru or universal wisdom. Personalities like Swami Vivekananda and Juan Miguel Luz in the Philippines (who implemented Brigade Eskuwela in the Philippines) embody this wisdom, inspiring us to seek knowledge that transcends borders and unites humanity.


At the core of all these teachings is the realization that knowledge lies in the roots. The Aum symbol in the Mandukya Upanishad reminds us of the profound wisdom embedded in our ancient texts, urging us to delve deeper into our cultural heritage to find the answers we seek.


Together, these analogies illustrate the interconnectedness of individual knowledge and societal progress. As we explore these themes in our workshop, let us strive to embody the principles they represent and work towards a more enlightened and harmonious society.


Thank you.



Best regards,
Seetha Ram

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