New Delhi, Feb. 5: Institute of Harmony and Peace Studies (IHPS), New Delhi, organized a book launch and seminar on ‘Faith, Inter-faith and Spirituality’ at Conference Hall 1, India Islamic Cultural Centre, here on January 27. The book is authored by Dr M.D. Thomas, Founder Director, Institute of Harmony and Peace Studies.
Prof. Manoj Kumar Sinha, Director, Indian Law Institute (ILI), New Delhi, was the chief guest and speaker of the seminar. Other speakers were Prof. Madhu Khanna, Former Director, Centre for Comparative Religions and Civilizations, Jamia Millia Islamia University (JMI); Syed Mahmood Akhter, Chief Executive Officer, Alliance for Economic and Educational Development of the Underprivileged (AEEDU); and Prof. Vanita Manchanda, Former Professor, Department of Punjabi, Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Khalsa College, University of Delhi.
The book was launched by Chief Guest and other dignitaries together. Dr M.D. Thomas welcomed the guests and introduced the book. Mr Yash Dhamija, an Interfaith activist, anchored the programme.
Professor Manoj Kumar Sinha expressed that, by birth, all human beings are equal, and thus, freedom, equality, and human rights form the foundation of a harmonious society. The book eloquently delves into these fundamental aspects.
Professor Madhu Khanna remarked that the book explores diverse perspectives on faith, inter-faith and spirituality. Each chapter encapsulates a valuable reservoir of knowledge and wisdom.
Syed Mahmood Akhter asserted that this book guides readers from darkness to light and from ignorance to knowledge. This book is the need of the present times.
Prof. Vanita Manchanda commented that the book explores faith and inter-faith as shared consciousness. This shared consciousness serves as a catalyst for fostering a harmonious society.
The author highlighted that the book meticulously examines its constituent nuances and realities in an applied, inclusive, and interactive manner. The exploration demonstrates ‘faith’ as naturally evolving into ‘inter-faith’ and ultimately fostering spiritual sensibilities as an inherent part of life’s natural process.
A lively interaction between the resource persons and audience followed. Nearly 70 persons from different communities and sections of the society participated in the programme.
