ROING, Dec 21: An International Seminar on “Interpreting Cultures and Traditions: Shifting the Lens” concluded today at RIWATCH, Khinjili, Roing, after three days of intensive academic deliberations, research presentations, and meaningful exchanges on indigenous cultures and traditional knowledge systems.
The seminar, which brought together scholars, academicians, and cultural practitioners from India and abroad, came up with key contributions to the discourse on decolonizing cultural studies and centring indigenous perspectives.
The third and final day of the seminar featured two important sessions that connected traditional knowledge systems with contemporary concerns. Prasant Divekar, Trustee of Jnana Prabodhini, Pune, delivered a session on ‘Indian Knowledge System: Relevance to Contemporary Society’. Divekar’s presentation explored how ancient Indian wisdom traditions can inform solutions to modern challenges in education, healthcare, environmental conservation, and social organization. His session sparked vigorous discussions on the applicability of traditional knowledge in addressing contemporary societal issues.
Divesh Pandit presented a session on ‘Introduction to the International Center for Cultural Studies (ICCS)’, outlining the vision, mission, and activities of this important international organization dedicated to cross-cultural understanding and research. His presentation highlighted opportunities for collaboration and knowledge exchange between Indian scholars and international researchers working on indigenous cultures. Eight research papers were presented on the final day, bringing the total number of presentations across the three days to 46, representing diverse geographical regions, cultural contexts, and methodological approaches.
The valedictory session featured Mukut Mithi, former Lt Governor of Puducherry, former State Chief Minister, and current Patron of RIWATCH, as chief guest. Mithi applauded RIWATCH under the stewardship of Vijay Swami (Executive Director) for carrying out excellent research and documentation work on the cultures and traditions of indigenous communities in Arunachal Pradesh and beyond. His remarks underscored the critical role that institutions like RIWATCH play in preserving cultural heritage and creating platforms for indigenous voices.
Dr Mechek Sampar Awan, Centre Head, RCML and Co-Convenor of the seminar, presented a comprehensive report on the proceedings of the three-day seminar, highlighting key themes, insights, and recommendations that emerged from the various sessions and paper presentations. The report synthesis provided a roadmap for future research and action in the field of indigenous cultural studies.
During the valedictory session, another significant publication was released: “Geo Heritage of Arunachal Pradesh”, authored by Dr Somnath Sharma and Dr Sambhu Chakraborty and published by RIWATCH. The book was released by the chief guest. This publication represents an important documentation of the geological and geographical heritage of Arunachal Pradesh, exploring the intimate connections between landscape, ecology, and indigenous cultures.
The seminar successfully achieved its objective of creating a platform for interpreting cultures and traditions from indigenous perspectives. Participants appreciated the interdisciplinary approach, the diversity of viewpoints represented, and the emphasis on practical applications of research findings. The event has generated momentum for continued collaboration among the participating institutions and has laid the groundwork for future research initiatives focused on indigenous knowledge systems and cultural preservation.