Prof. Dr. Sharma, Chairperson, and Principal Lead Discourse on Swami Dayananda Saraswati
Date: Feb 14th, 2025
Paying homage to Maharshi Dayananda Saraswati, founder of the DAV School of Thought, Prof. Dr. Krishna Chandra Sharma- Central Department of English, Tribhuvan University, along with Shree Anil Kedia, Chairperson of DAV School and College, and Dr. Bhubaneswari Rao, Principal of DAV, served as resource persons in a discourse on Swami Dayananda Saraswati.
The discourse was held on the auspicious occasion of Swami Dayananda Saraswati’s Bicentenary Celebration at DAV School on 12th February 2025. The event was attended by students and teachers from Grades VII and VIII, along with representative parents and Vedic knowledge seekers from the capital.
Prof. Dr. Sharma paid tribute to Swami Dayananda Saraswati, emphasizing the profound honour of engaging in such an enlightening session. He chanted the Omkar Mantra, highlighting its significance as the initiating sound of every Vedic mantra and as a sacred representation of divinity. He elaborated on Swami Dayananda Saraswati’s advocacy for Vedic Hinduism, underscoring that the Vedas do not endorse untouchability or caste hierarchy but promote universal knowledge for all.
Dr. Sharma provided an insightful review of Satyarth Prakash, Swami Ji’s seminal work that simplified Vedic knowledge for the masses. He discussed the emphasis placed by Swami Ji on equal education for both boys and girls before marriage, reinforcing the progressive vision of the Vedic tradition.
Honouring Swami Dayananda Saraswati as a Maharshi, Dr. Sharma lauded his lifelong dedication to eradicating social malpractices and superstitions, including caste discrimination and gender inequality. He emphasized that the Vedas serve as a foundational source of knowledge for all communities and modern disciplines. Additionally, he highlighted Swami Ji’s visionary efforts in establishing schools and gurukuls to impart true knowledge and skills.
Chairperson Shree Anil Kedia, in his address, described Swami Dayananda Saraswati as the guiding force behind DAV Schools and Colleges worldwide. He fondly recalled his father, Late Shree Shankar Lal Kedia, who was deeply concerned about the erosion of Eastern civilizations due to external and internal influences. Inspired by Swami Ji’s ideals, his father established DAV School in Nepal 32 years ago to promote Vedic education. Chairperson Kedia expressed profound appreciation for Prof. Dr. Sharma’s enlightening discourse, describing him as a visible embodiment of Saraswati.
In light of the discussions, the Chairperson requested the Principal and Vice-Principal to organize a similar discourse for the DAV teaching community. The event was also graced by Mr. Narayan Prasad Dhakal from Nepal Pragyik Vidyarthi Parishad.
Principal Dr. Bhubaneswari Rao, in her address, welcomed all attendees and reflected on Swami Dayananda Saraswati’s enduring legacy. Born in 1824 in Gujarat, Swami Ji was a pioneer in challenging superstitions, advocating women’s education, and promoting social reform. “Swami Ji’s fearless commitment to rational thought and his establishment of the Arya Samaj in 1875 laid the foundation for transformative education,” she remarked.
The Principal elaborated on how Swami Ji’s principles continue to shape DAV institutions, which integrate modern learning with moral values. “Education should not only impart knowledge but also nurture character, integrity, and critical thinking—values that remain relevant today, especially in an era of misinformation and social inequalities,” she noted. She concluded by urging all to uphold wisdom, righteousness, and a commitment to societal progress.
The celebration featured Saraswati Sloka chanting, fusion dance, poetry recitations, prize distribution for the weeklong bicentenary competitions, devotional songs, Bharatanatyam and Kathak performances, thematic dances, and bhajans by the Music Department teachers. The event concluded with a collective pledge to uphold Swami Dayananda Saraswati’s ideals, ensuring his mission continues to inspire future generations.
Vice-Principal Mr. Ramchandra Khanal extended a warm reception to the distinguished guests and parents. The programme was moderated by Mr. Purushottam Pokharel, Head of the Hindi Department, and Ms. Asha Khadka, Head of the English Department.
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