New Acropolis India (North) marked World Philosophy Day on November 21 and 29, 2024, with engaging events in Mumbai and Pune, under the theme “Building Unity Through Diversity.” Established by UNESCO in 2002, World Philosophy Day encourages reflection on philosophy’s role in shaping culture, society, and individual growth.
In Mumbai, the event at the National Gallery of Modern Art brought together leaders from the arts, education, and social sectors for a panel discussion on how philosophy can foster unity amidst diversity. The panel included Yaron Barzilay, National Director of New Acropolis India; author Amish Tripathi; dancer-choreographer Mandakini Trivedi; Inakshi Sobti, CEO of Asia Society; and Lobsang Phuntsok, founder of Jhamste Gatsal Children’s Community.
The discussions opened with Yaron’s insights on philosophy not just as an academic theory but as a practical, life engaging pursuit – focused on reflection, compassion and societal upliftment.
Trivedi explored the unifying transcendental power of dance, while Tripathi emphasized the value of mythology in promoting balance and understanding across cultures. Inakshi Sobti highlighted the importance of cross-cultural engagement and education in creating a more integrated world, and Phuntsok shared how philosophy shaped his work in educating and empowering vulnerable children.
The Mumbai event included a performance of a poem by New Acropolis members and ended with a call to action to embrace philosophy as a tool for personal and societal growth, urging attendees to reflect on their roles in fostering unity.
In Pune, the event on November 21, 2024, featured a diverse group of thinkers and artists for a panel discussion on philosophy’s role in bridging fields like art, science, and philanthropy. Panelists included Dr. Shraddha Shetty, Dr. Bhushan Patwardhan, Dhrupad artist Pt. Uday Bhawalkar, and philanthropist Zarina Screwvala. Bhawalkar discussed music’s power for personal transformation, while Screwvala shared how philosophy shaped her philanthropic work with the Swades Foundation.
The evening also included a classical dance performance blending Bharatnatyam and Odissi, symbolizing the union of spirit and matter, and was complemented by discussions on the intersection of philosophy and science.
The Dr. Shetty and Dr. Patwardhan emphasised the importance of philosophy in guiding both scientific progress and societal development.
The event ended with a heartfelt tribute to the panelists and performers, leaving attendees with a deeper appreciation for philosophy’s unifying power.
These events exemplified how philosophy can inspire collective action and offer a path toward a more harmonious and inclusive world. Events in both cities were found coverage in various leading newspapers.
