Faculty

Prof. R. Balasubramanian,Formerly Chairman, Indian Council of Philosophical Research, New Delhi
Dr.G.Mishra, Professor, Department of Philosophy,University of Madras, Chennai
Dr.K.Sasidhar, Research Fellow, UGC Project Associate, University of Madras

Introduction

Textual Tradition is a distinguishing characteristic of Indian systems of philosophy.

Advaita Vedanta too shares this important feature.

Originating from the Upanishadic literature, evolved into a well-rounded and resilient system, thanks to an extremely rich tradition of commentaries, sub-commentaries and glosses written on the Prasthanatrayi (the core triple canons of Vedanta, namely, Upanishads, Brahmasutra and Bhagavadgita).

In the process of evolution, an important watershed is the emergence of the celebrated commentaries by, which have received universal acclaim for their metaphysical depth and rigorous exposition.

Advaita philosophy, overs the years, had to encounter varying criticisms from other systems of philosophy both with in and outside the fold of Vedanta. Such a critical opposition inspired the Advaitins to come up with a wide array of cogent rejoinders, which developed Advaita into a rigorous system marked by logical consistency.

Also the commentaries as well as the treatises produced by several scholars of independent thinking ensured that the system enjoyed a vibrant and living tradition free from dogmatism.

Besides the spiritual authority, reason also has been accorded an status in Advaita Vedanta. This has facilitated its active interaction with the modern philosophies and has earned for itself a distinct niche among the world's leading philosophies.

Objectives of the Course

The main objective of the course is to acquaint the participants with the sastric methods of studying the texts. This would expose the participants to the immensely rich commentatorial tradition of Advaita Vedanta and would help them to appreciate its metaphysical nuances. By accessing the original texts, they can gain valuable insights into deeper philosophical foundations and into the intellectual context that shaped its evolution. Studying the primary texts would ensure that the partictpants would steer clear of the ambiguities and misconceptions that are likely to arise due to dependence on secondary sources. On the whole, it would be an exciting intellectual journey into Advaita tradition.

Course Curriculam

1. Mandukyakarika of Gaudapada
2. Brahmasutrabhasya of Adi Sankara:
        adhyasabhasya (with commentary)
3. Anubhavavilasa of Harihara Paramahamsa

Participant Profile of the Course

The participants would be teachers in Academic Institutions in the discipline of Sanskrit, Philosophy, Indian Culture and related subjects, UGC and ICPR researchers, PG Students, Acharyas of Chinmaya Mission, Monks of various Institutions, Sadakas (Spiritual aspirants) and even interested public.

Course Fee

Non-refundable, includes boarding and lodging and excludes delegates’ Travel Expenses)

Please send the cheques/demand draft in favour of "Chinmaya International Foundation", payable at State bank of Travancore, Piravom, Ernakulam, along with the enrollment form.

For registration and other details

• Director, Chinmaya International Foundation, Adi Sankara Nilayam, Veliyanad, Ernakulam - 682 319. Ph: 0484-2748194, 2747104 , or Manager, Ph: 0484-2747307; fax: 0484 2749729, email: chinfo@md2.vsnl.net.in