Reviving Kashmir Śaivism: Special Lecture at University of Jammu honors Abhinavagupta’s timeless thought

JAMMU: The Department of Philosophy, University of Jammu, marked World Philosophy Day with a thought-provoking special lecture titled “From Tattva Dṛṣṭi to Samājika Samarasta: Reinterpreting Abhinavagupta’s Philosophy in Contemporary Context.” Prof. Neelu Rohmetra, Dean Research Studies, graced the event as the Chief Guest, while Prof. Ambika Dutt Sharma, President of the All India Philosophy Association, delivered the keynote address.

In her remarks, Prof. Neelu Rohmetra appreciated the Department for selecting a theme of such depth and relevance. She also shared personal reflections on the relevance of Kashmir Śaivism in everyday life and encouraged students and scholars to draw from Abhinavagupta’s philosophical wisdom to navigate modern-day challenges.

In his address, Prof. Sharma highlighted the enduring relevance of Kashmir Śaivism in today’s social context. Emerging from the culturally rich land of Jammu & Kashmir, this profound philosophical tradition urges individuals to reflect on their relationship with the world and realize the essential non-difference between the individual self and the supreme reality. He emphasized that the revival of Kashmir Śaivism is the need of the hour, as its timeless teachings continue to guide scholars and practitioners globally.

Contrasting Kashmir Śaivism with systems such as Nyāya and Mīmāṃsā, which focus largely on methodological inquiry, Prof. Sharma noted that Kashmir Śaivism charts an inward journey—towards non-duality, non-difference, and the dissolution of hierarchies. He highlighted Abhinavagupta as one of the earliest thinkers to articulate the idea of a “greater India,” rooted in the intellectual and spiritual traditions that flourished in 9th–10th century Kashmir. Abhinavagupta’s concept of Samājika Samarasta—social harmony grounded in the unity of consciousness—remains deeply relevant in contemporary times.

Prof. Sharma further observed that if consciousness is central to the universe, then understanding its nature becomes essential for human development; otherwise, individuals risk becoming products of their own unexamined constructs. To remember Abhinavagupta, he said, is to move toward the realization of one’s true self. Abhinavagupta’s contributions extend far beyond philosophy: his brilliance encompassed history, aesthetics, and literature. In the context of the Indian Knowledge System, he integrated Darśana (Philosophy), Smṛti (History), and Sāhitya (Literature) as pillars of cultural identity and nationhood.

Prof. Sharma stressed that the philosophy of Kashmir Śaivism not only facilitates reverence for Śiva—the supreme consciousness—but also illuminates both the conscious and unconscious dimensions of the self, offering guidance in thought and action. Earlier, Prof. Jasbir Singh, Head, Department of Philosophy, formally welcomed the guests and introduced the concept behind organizing the lecture. Dr. Ajai Kumar Mishra, Assistant Professor, introduced the speaker. Dr. Panu Sharma, Assistant Professor, delivered the vote of thanks, while Dr. Vijay Laxmi Rai, Assistant Professor, conducted the proceedings.

The event saw enthusiastic participation from faculty members and scholars across the University of Jammu and affiliated colleges, including Prof. Neeru Sharma, Prof. Samridhi Sharma, Prof. Vishav Raksha, Prof. Baljit Singh, Prof. Sunita Sharma, Prof. Varinder Koundal, Prof. Manoj Bhatt, Prof. Shallu Sehgal, Dr. Ruby Bharati, Dr. Shalani Gupta, Dr. Sarita Sood, Dr. Dharvinder, Dr. Kauna Gupta, Dr. Dinesh Jamwal, Dr. Varun Sharma, Dr. Ritu Raj, Dr. Simran Raina, and Dr. Parveen Kour, among others. Students and research scholars from various departments also attended in large numbers, making the celebration of World Philosophy Day both enriching and memorable.