SHILLONG: Philosophical ideals of the people of the North East and mainstream India was the topic of discussion at NEHU on Wednesday where Governor V. Shanmuganathan lauded the philosophical ideals rooted in the day to day life of the Northeasterners.
Speaking at the inaugural function of a three day seminar on ‘Teaching of Indian Philosophy in North East India, the Governor said, “The Northeastern region has wonderful philosophical ideals which mainstream India can gain a lot from.”
He spoke of the Khasi pholosophy of hospitality and dignity, the Nagas’ love for courage, and others. “India has a lot to learn from the North East philosophical ideals,” he added.
He pointed out that in the North East no female foeticide, dowry harassment or farmers’ suicide is reported and unity in community life is unique to the region.
He observed that women hold a special position in the society and urged the fellow Indians to emulate the practices found here.
Towards the end, the Governor, in his usual interactive style, queried the students and scholars who have arrived from other parts of the country as to their philosophy of life.
S.K. Srivastava, Vice Chancellor, NEHU, observed that there is a lot to learn from the practices of the tribal communities.
The three day national seminar is organized by the Department of Philosophy, NEHU and sponsored by the Indian Council of Philosophical Research (ICPR), New Delhi and North Eastern Regional Centre of the Indian Council of Social Science Research (NERC-ICSSR) Shillong.
