What is this event all about?

Samkhya System in Srimad Bhagavatam

Institute for Science and Spirituality (ISS) is organising a workshop on "Samkhya System in Srimad Bhagavatam" on 20 April 2024 in collaboration with the Indian Council of Philosophical Research (ICPR) and Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU). The event will be organised in a hybrid (virtual and in-person) mode.

The Samkhya system described in Bhagavat Purana is a theistic Samkhya system described by Sage Kapila, the son of Devahuti and Kardama muni. This is often termed as Bhagavat Samkhya. Some scholars believe that this Samkhya system predates the classical Samkhya commentary by Isvara Krishna. Prof. Laxmidhar Behera, Director of IIT Mandi, Prof. Sachchidananda Mishra, the Member Secretary of ICPR, and Dr. Venkatesh Chembrolu, a Scientist from Meta Labs, Facebook, are a few notable speakers along with other internationally acclaimed scholars of Samkhya.

Traditionally, the discussion on Samkhya assumes only classical Samkhya commentary. The primary text associated with classical Samkhya is the "Samkhya Karika," commentary by Ishvara Krishna. Other important commentaries include Tattva Samasa, Samkhya Pravachana Sutra, Yuktidipika, etc. Thus, there is a great need to reflect on the antiquity and features of the Bhagavat Samkhya system from a broader perspective.

Modern scientific exploration, rooted in causal reductionism and a pure physicalist proposition, often obscures the role of consciousness in elementary particle physics. In contrast, Samkhya provides a holistic framework with a causal hierarchy based on modelling experiences through tanmatras. Indian psychology, emphasising the three guna theory, mind-body connection, and spiritual dimensions, contrasts with Western psychology's reliance on empirical observation and reductionist analysis. Treatment approaches differ, with Indian traditions employing practices like meditation, while Western psychology relies on therapeutic interventions. Bhagavat Samkhya, with its unique devotional characteristics, offers a holistic perspective on mental well-being. While modern neuroscience sees the mind as the brain in action, Bhagavat Samkhya provides a richer understanding of mind-matter interaction. As neuroscience explores the brain-heart connection and challenges perceptions of self-other boundaries through virtual reality experiments, Bhagavat Samkhya holds potential contributions to ongoing developments in cognitive neuroscience.

Bhagavat Samkhya's societal appeal stems from its holistic approach, offering a framework for balanced well-being that addresses physical, mental, and spiritual aspects. Focusing on ethical conduct and alignment with dharma, it provides moral principles that contribute to individual character and societal harmony. Emphasising self-realisation it guides individuals on a transformative journey toward understanding the self, fostering a sense of purpose and fulfilment. The philosophy's relevance extends beyond individual growth, resonating with those seeking a comprehensive path to meaningful living within the broader societal context.