3rd International IKS Sangama 2025

Sajjana Samāgama: A Confluence of Ancient Wisdom and Modern Thought Highlights of the 3rd International IKS Sangama 2025

Dates: 12th – 14th December 2025

Venue: Sri Sathya Sai University for Human Excellence (SSSUHE), Sathya Sai Grama, Muddenahalli

The 3rd International IKS Sangama was a landmark event co-hosted by Sri Sathya Sai University for Human Excellence (SSSUHE) and the Indian Knowledge Systems and Heritage Association (IKSHA). Supported by the IKS Division of the Ministry of Education (Govt. of Bharat), the Siddhanta Knowledge Foundation, and the Indian Council of Philosophical Research (ICPR), the event transformed the serene campus of Sathya Sai Grama into a vibrant hub of intellectual and spiritual exchange.

The gathering was truly a ‘Sajjana Samāgama’ (सज्जनसमागम)—a coming together of noble minds. Scholars, researchers, traditional practitioners, artists, educators, and sādhakas convened not merely to present ideas but to listen, reflect, and learn. The deliberations reflected a growing confidence that Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) are no longer a niche pursuit but a vibrant movement addressing contemporary global challenges.

Day 1: The Grand Invocation (December 12)

The Sangama began with a ceremonial inauguration, setting the tone for a convergence of Jnana (Knowledge), Karma (Action), and Upasana (Devotion).

Inaugural Address: The session was graced by spiritual leaders and scholars who emphasized that IKS is not just text-based learning but a "living tradition."

Sadhu Bhadresh Das Ji (Head, BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir, Delhi) spoke movingly on the living nature of tradition found in the lives of saints and common people, rather than just books.

Acharya Mithilesh Nandini Sharan Ji (Peethadhipati, Ayodhya Siddhapeeth Sri Hanuman Niwas) highlighted the need to decolonize our minds and accept IKS as a valid, standalone method of inquiry.

Key Launch: A significant academic milestone was the release of the Journal of Indian Knowledge Systems in collaboration with the prestigious publisher Brill, marking a global step forward for IKS scholarship.

Exhibitions:

Grantha Mala: A showcase of rare manuscripts and the history of IKS preservation.

Music Tree: A unique display of over 75 tribal musical instruments curated by Sri Ravindra Sahu and Aurelio, celebrating India's sonic heritage.

Cultural Evening: The day concluded with "Nadarpanam," a soulful offering of Vedic chants and multi-lingual devotionals by the students from music and performing arts department and department of vedic studies, SSSUHE, graced by Sri Suresh Soni Ji (Senior Pracharak, RSS).

Day 2: Intellectual Manthan & Cultural Splendour (December 13)

The second day was dedicated to rigorous intellectual exchange and thematic exploration.

Keynote & Shastra Parichaya: The morning sessions featured deep dives into the classification of Indian sciences and institutional presentations showcasing current IKS work across the country.

Vimarsha Mandali (Thematic Discussions): One of the core highlights was the breakout sessions. Sri Raghava Krishna Ji (Founder & Director, Brhat) thoughtfully designed this exercise, where participants divided into ten thematic groups—ranging from Governance and Policy to Gurukula leadership—to brainstorm actionable strategies for the future of IKS.

Cultural Evening: The day ended with a mesmerizing musical theatre performance titled "Vaiśvānara to Aṅguṣṭhamātra" by Team Sunaad, led by Tara Kini. The performance wove together Upanishadic wisdom, Zen Buddhism, and Sufi poetry, leaving the audience spellbound.

Day 3: Valedictory & The Path Forward (December 14)

The final day marked the culmination of deliberations and the beginning of a new chapter for the host university.

Launch of the IKS Centre:The highlight of the Valedictory Session was the digital inauguration of the Bharatiya Jnana Parampara Kendra (Centre for IKS) at SSSUHE by the Founder and Chancellor, Sadguru Sri Madhusudan Sai. This nodal centre aims to collect, preserve, and apply ancient wisdom to modern societal needs.

Valedictory Addresses:

Sri Nandakumar Ji (Prajna Pravaha Pramukh) delivered a stirring address on the resilience of Bharatiya culture and the "Civilizational Response" needed today.

Sadguru Sri Madhusudan Sai emphasized that the "Soul of Bharat is Adhyatma" (Spirituality) and called for the integration of spiritual values into mainstream education.

Distinguished Dignitaries & Organisers

The event was a success due to the presence and guidance of eminent personalities:

Sadguru Sri Madhusudan Sai – Founder & Chancellor, SSSUHE

Sri Nandakumar Ji – Prajna Pravaha Pramukh

Sri Manohar Shinde Ji – Chief Patron, IKSHA

Prof. Sampadananda Mishra – Dean & Head, Centre for Human Sciences, Rishihood University (Led the organizing team from Rishihood)

Prof. M.S. Chaitra – Director, IKSHA & Foundation for the Study of Indian Culture (Led the organizing team from FSIC)

Sri Raghava Krishna Ji – Founder & Director, Brhat

Prof. Shrikanta Murthy – Vice-Chancellor, SSSUHE

Sri Jaikishan Jhaveri Ji – Industrialist & Patron of IKS

Sadhu Bhadresh Das Ji – Head, BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir, Delhi

Acharya Mithilesh Nandini Sharan Ji – Peethadhipati, Ayodhya Siddhapeeth

The event concluded with a sense of gratitude for the beautiful, serene, and green campus of SSSUHE and the extraordinary hospitality of its staff, which allowed the delegates to experience the true spirit of Atithi Devo Bhava.