Dr. Vinay Prabhakar Sahasrabuddhe Explores India’s Soft Power at 26th Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan Memorial Lecture
2 min read
New Delhi, December 7, 2023: The Indian Institute of Advanced Study (IIAS), Shimla, orchestrated the 26th Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan Memorial Lecture at the India International Centre, New Delhi, today. Dr. Vinay Prabhakar Sahasrabuddhe, President of the Indian Council of Cultural Relations (ICCR), New Delhi, delivered an enlightening lecture on ‘India’s Soft Power Prowess: Challenges and Responsibilities.’
This prestigious memorial lecture pays homage to the distinguished philosopher, the second President of India, Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, who generously donated the Rashtrapati Nivas for housing the Indian Institute of Advanced Study.
The event commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp, and Professor Nageshwar Rao, Director of IIAS and Vice-Chancellor of IGNOU, extended a warm welcome. Professor Shailendra Raj Mehta, Vice-Chairman of IIAS and President and Director of MICA, Ahmedabad, shared his insights, while Professor ShashiPrabha Kumar, Chairperson of IIAS, introduced the chief guest and emphasized the significance of the Radhakrishnan Memorial Lecture.
Dr. Vinay Sahasrabuddhe delved into the concept of Soft Power, emphasizing its contemporary relevance. He highlighted that narratives and discourses play a pivotal role in shaping public opinion globally. The lecture explored India’s historical soft power, acknowledging its influence across seas even before the country was widely known as India. Dr. Sahasrabuddhe emphasized the timeless and enduring nature of Indian culture, describing it as “ever ageing, never old.”
Discussing India’s worldview, he underlined the unity within diversity and the celebration of this diversity. Dr. Sahasrabuddhe shed light on traditional Indian knowledge systems rooted in philosophy, medicine, mathematics, and more, stressing their undervalued importance. He urged that soft power should not be solely entrusted to the government but should be a collective effort involving people both within and outside the country.
The lecture was attended by fellows, special invitees, Delhi-based former fellows, and IUC Associates, along with their students. Shri Meher Chand Negi, the Secretary of the Institute, conveyed gratitude in the vote of thanks. Professor Malti Mathur skillfully moderated the event, which concluded with the rendition of the National Anthem.
