JNANA DEEPA (JD) - SATYA NILAYAM (SN) SEMINAR

The JD-SN Seminar 2024-2025 was held at JD, Pune on November 21-22. It was a significant academic event that explored the multifaceted issue of “Addiction and the Human Condition: Philosophical Perspectives and Questions.” The seminar spanned two days, bringing together students and faculty of JD and distinguished speakers from SN, Chennai, to engage in insightful discussions. The seminar commenced with a formal inauguration by the Dean of Philosophy, Fr. Nishant Irudayadason. Over the course of four sessions, students presented papers on various themes followed by active and engaging discussions, where participants critically analyzed and contributed diverse perspectives on the topics. A highlight of the seminar was the guest lecture by Dr. Zainab Lokhandwala, who delivered an impactful talk on ‘The Complexities of Addiction and Recovery.’ The seminar concluded on November 22 with reflections from the President of JD, Fr. Francis Gonsalves SJ and the distribution of certificates and mementos to contributors. The event which was streamed online, successfully fostered a platform for philosophical inquiry and critical reflection on addiction as a human condition. It encouraged active student participation and dialogue, making it a memorable and intellectually enriching experience for all.

JNANA DEEPA – VIDYA JYOTI STUDENT SEMINAR - 2024

Jnana Deepa Institute of Philosophy and Theology, Pune in collaboration with Vidya Jyoti, College of Theology, Delhi organized first ever JD-VJ student Seminar on Friday, December 06, 2024. The theme of the seminar was; ‘Doing Theology in a Digital World’. This seminar featured the presentation of eight papers by the students of JD and VJ. All these papers were centered around the theme of the seminar like ‘Doing Theology in a digital world’. The students presented the papers on a variety of compelling topics such as Exploring Theology in the Digital Age: Developing a Networked Approach to Theological Inquiry, Theological Implications and Ethical Considerations of AI Consciousness, Gospel of Jesus Christ according to ChatGPT: Exploring the Possibilities of AI in Bible Study,  Doing Theology in the Digital Age: Reflection from the Multi-religious, Socio-political Context of India today, Missio Dei to Gen Alpha and Beta: A Younger Generation Defying Gender Norms, Faith Formation in the Digital, The Prophetic Discipleship of Women in the Church: Ensuring Women’s Rightful Place in the Digital and Impact of the Digital World on Youth: A Comparative Study on Youth in the Seminary and the Secular World. All the sessions were moderated by the students of JD. All the presentations were followed by ten minutes of interaction with the audience, which helped the audience to raise interesting questions and made the sessions alive and active. The afternoon session with an energizing musical band performance by the students of JD. After all the presentations Prof. Dr. Peter Ignatius, SJ, the Registrar of JD provided a synthesis of the key points discussed. Then Prof. Dr. Francis Gonsalves SJ and Prof. Dr. John Karuvelil SJ distributed certificates and mementos to all the presenters and moderators. The seminar concluded with the JD anthem.

JDSC Seminar

On December 12, 2024, the JDSC organized a seminar for the Philosophy students. The session was led by Dr. Ananta Kumar Giri, a renowned scholar from the Madras Institute of Development Studies. The seminar, titled “Gardens of God”, explored profound philosophical themes centered on the concept of divinity beyond traditional notions of power and sovereignty. Dr. Giri emphasized a transformative vision of God as a nurturer and collaborator, drawing on cross-cultural insights and traditions. He highlighted the idea of moving from hierarchical discourses, such as the “Kingdom of God,” to more relational and compassionate frameworks like the “Gardens of God.”

Drawing on references from Sri Aurobindo's Savitri, Christian Advaita, and other global spiritual traditions, Dr. Giri illustrated how divine realization is a shared journey of self-cultivation, mutual care, and cosmic engagement. He also integrated insights from political theology and ecological spirituality, advocating for non-violence and unity across diverse belief systems. The seminar concluded with an engaging Q&A session. The event was an enriching experience, encouraging critical reflection and inspiring new perspectives among the attendees.

Prof. Richard De Smet and Prof. Jean de Marneffe Memorial Lecture for Philosophers

The Prof. Richard De Smet and Prof. Jean de Marneffe Memorial Lecture was held to honor two great scholars known for their contributions to Philosophy and Theology. This year’s theme “Philosophies of Resistance and Freedom: Exploring Buddhist and Bhakti Poetry”, aimed to explore how poetry can express deep philosophical ideas about freedom and resistance. 

The program started with a prayer song. It created a peaceful and reflective atmosphere for everyone. Fr. Doni Raja gave the welcome address. He greeted everyone warmly and spoke about the importance of the theme. He also gave a brief introduction about the speaker. Fr. Henry explained the legacies of Prof. Richard De Smet and Prof. Jean de Marneffe. Their work in philosophy and theology was praised, and their influence on the field was highlighted. 

Ms. Gayatri Mendanha delivered the first lecture on Buddhist poetry. She explained how these poems reflect ideas of resistance, freedom, and spiritual depth. Her examples and explanations were easy to understand and kept everyone engaged. After the lecture, there was a question-and-answer session. Many participants asked interesting questions, and Ms. Mendanha responded to them thoughtfully. In the second session, Ms. Mendanha focused on Bhakti poetry. She explained how Bhakti poets used their words to challenge unfair practices in society and promote equality and love. The audience enjoyed her clear and passionate explanations. The session ended with another lively Q&A session where the audience shared their thoughts and asked meaningful questions. 

Report of George Lobo Memorial Lecture for Theologians

The George Lobo memorial lecture was held on Friday, January 10, 2025 on the topic ‘Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and its possible impact on the Indian society and the Catholic Church’. The speaker was Adv. Nolencia Pereira-Dharmai. The lecture was attended by all the Baccalaureate, Licentiate and Doctoral students of theology faculty as well as theology faculty members.

The lecture began with a prayer song, followed by the lighting of a lamp. Dr John Karuvelil, the Dean of the Faculty of Theology, formally welcomed the speaker and the participants. He also introduced the speaker, Fr George Lobo, in whose memory the lecture was organized. The lecture was divided into two sessions. In the first session Adv. Nolencia spoke about the Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), and the changes it has brought about in the Indian judiciary. In the second session, she spoke on the other two new laws i.e. Bhartiya Nagrik Sureksha Sanhita (BNSS) and Bhartiya Sakhsha Adhiniyam (BSA). Again, she highlighted the changes that have been brought about. She also spoke about the implication for the Indian society and especially for the Catholic Church in India. At the end of the session, she answered all the questions and clarifications. At the end of the memorial lecture, a vote of thanks was given and the lecture ended with the singing of the JD anthem.