Discerning Dharma: Debating Universal vs Contextual Morality in The Mahabharata

On 6th April, 2023, Department of Philosophy in the seminar series ‘Dialogue’ organized the fourth lecture on the topic Discerning Dharma: Debating Universal vs Contextual Morality in The Mahabharata, in the College Campus. The speaker for the day was Dr Pankaj Srivastava from Department of Philosophy, Panjab University. The session was coordinated by Dr Ambuj Sharma and chaired by Vanisha (BA1). The seminar started with Dr Ambuj introducing philosophical society and the Department. Vanisha (BA1) then gave a brief introduction about the topic and the speaker. Dr Pankaj Srivastava was invited to share his views where he talked about various topics such as what are Epics and their traditions, what are objectives of Dharma and what Homo sapiens are. He also talked about the universal versus contextual dharma conflict present in Mahabharata. Questions were asked by the students at the end of his presentation, where he answered enthusiastically. Tanu (BA1) asked what according to him was superior, universal or contextual morality followed by Vanisha (BA1) asking about his personal dilemmas about the two moralities. On the occasion, Dr Ambuj Sharma and the office bearers of philosophical society presented a bouquet to the speaker and extended the vote of thanks. Courtesy: Tanu Sharma BA I