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The Department of History at Himachal Pradesh University is hosting a two-day National Seminar on Pahari Cultural Heritage on 13th and 14th November. The inaugural session, held on the morning of 13th November, began with the traditional lighting of the lamp and the singing of the ‘Kulgeet.’ Dr. B.K. Shivram, Chairperson and Dean of History, HPU, delivered the welcome address, acknowledging the presence of the Keynote Speaker, Dr. Chetan Singh, the Guest of Honour and Dean of Students’ Welfare, Professor Mamta Mokta, Special Guests Dr. Hari Chauhan, Curator of Himachal Pradesh State Museum, and other dignitaries and scholars such as Dr. O.C. Handa and Dr. O.P. Sharma.
Dr. Shivram introduced the theme , emphasizing the uniqueness of Pahari culture, its historical background, the threat of homogenization, and the need to preserve and promote discourse on Pahari cultural heritage. This was followed by the keynote address by Dr. Chetan Singh, a renowned historian and scholar, who delved into the nature of “Pahari Cultural Heritage,” highlighting the multifaceted aspects of identity, including language, geography, religion, socio-cultural practices, and socio-economic factors. Dr. Singh underscored the dynamic and evolving nature of identities and the importance of interaction with various other regions and cultures in shaping these identities.
Professor Mamta Mokta addressed the need to establish a dedicated research center for Pahari culture and heritage at the university. An insightful lecture by Professor O.P. Sharma on Pahari Language and its many dialects detailed the origins, and the historical background of the Pahari language, highlighting, the significance of manuscripts and inscriptions that have been unearthed in course of research from various parts of Himachal Pradesh. He encouraged the collaboration between students of history and linguistics.
The second half featured a Panel Discussion chaired by Dr. Chetan Singh, with distinguished members including Dr. O.C. Handa, Dr. Hari Chauhan, Sh. Deepak Sharma, Dr. Yogesh Snehi and Dr. Himendra Bali. This was followed by a technical session where papers were presented on various subjects within the theme of “Pahari Cultural Heritage. “
The seminar was attended by all faculty members and students of the Department of History, HPU. This seminar aims to shed light on the rich cultural heritage of the Pahari people and foster a deeper understanding of their socio-religious practices and historical significance.