- The Uttar Pradesh government has unveiled plans to build a Vedic 3D Museum at Sampurnanand Sanskrit University, located in Varanasi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s parliamentary constituency.
- This state-of-the-art museum aims to highlight the profound contributions of Indian sages in the fields of astrology, astronomy, and Vedic literature.
- Announced by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath during his recent visit to the university, this project represents a significant effort to preserve and promote India’s ancient intellectual heritage.
Vision of the Vedic 3D Museum
- The Vedic 3D Museum will serve as a pioneering initiative, combining modern technology with ancient wisdom to showcase India’s rich Vedic traditions.
- The museum will emphasize Indian astrology, astronomy, and Vedic literature, creating an immersive learning experience.
- Visitors will explore the 16 Sanskars (sacraments), 64 arts, and 18 Vidya Sthans (knowledge centers), which are central to understanding Vedic civilization.
- In addition to illustrating the intellectual achievements of India’s ancient scholars, the museum will feature rare manuscripts housed in the historic Saraswati Bhawan, including treasures like the Raas Panchadhyayi, the Shrimad Bhagwat Gita, and the Durgasaptashati—each intricately adorned with gold artistry.
- This collection of texts is not only of religious significance but also an invaluable cultural heritage, offering deep insights into the spiritual, philosophical, and literary traditions of India.
Reviving the Tradition of ‘Shastrartha’
- One of the key goals of the museum is to revive the ancient tradition of Shastrartha, or spiritual discourse, which was once a cornerstone of Vedic education.
- Shastrartha represents a method of debate or discussion on philosophical, religious, and scientific topics, fostering a deep understanding of complex subjects.
- By offering a platform for modern-day scholars and learners to engage in such dialogues, the museum aims to rejuvenate interest in the study of Vedic literature and its relevance in contemporary times.
Development of Sampurnanand Sanskrit University
- During his visit, CM Yogi Adityanath inspected the 234-year-old main building of Sampurnanand Sanskrit University, one of the oldest institutions dedicated to the study of Sanskrit and Vedic sciences.
- Recognizing the need for modernization and preservation, the Chief Minister approved a proposal to reintegrate the Government Ayurvedic Mahavidyalaya in Chaukaghat as a faculty of the university.
- This integration reflects the state’s commitment to promoting Ayurveda alongside Vedic sciences, positioning the university as a multidisciplinary center of learning.
- The Chief Minister also emphasized the need to improve the university’s infrastructure, including installing Sanskrit signboards, upgrading sewer and drainage systems, repairing roads, and constructing a boundary wall.
- These initiatives are part of a broader effort to restore the university’s historical legacy while equipping it with modern amenities.
Enhancing Student Facilities and University Environment
- In line with his commitment to improving student life, CM Yogi Adityanath issued directives for the establishment of bicycle and vehicle stands at the Ganganath Jha hostel, ensuring easy mobility for students.
- He also stressed the importance of maintaining cleanliness on campus and prioritized the repair of old wiring and other critical infrastructure.
- These upgrades will create a safer and more conducive environment for learning.
Official Attendance and Support
- The announcement of the Vedic 3D Museum and the development plans were attended by notable figures, including Vice Chancellor Prof. Bihari Lal Sharma, UP’s Minister of State for Stamp and Court Registration Fees Ravindra Jaiswal, Minister of State for AYUSH and Food Security Dr. Dayashankar Mishra ‘Dayalu’, and former minister and MLA Dr. Neelkanth Tiwari.
- Their presence highlights the wide-reaching support for this cultural and educational project, which will undoubtedly contribute to the preservation of India’s ancient knowledge systems.
Conclusion
- The creation of the Vedic 3D Museum at Sampurnanand Sanskrit University represents a significant leap towards preserving and celebrating India’s ancient intellectual and spiritual traditions.
- By combining modern technology with historical manuscripts and Vedic teachings, the museum will serve as a bridge between the past and the future, educating visitors and scholars about India’s rich heritage.
- This project, along with the infrastructural improvements at the university, demonstrates the government’s commitment to creating a world-class educational and cultural hub in Varanasi.
