‘We should find our own lexicon’: Nalanda Vice-Chancellor Sachin Chaturvedi on India’s soft power

Nalanda University Vice Chancellor Sachin Chaturvedi discussed the university's plans for a library and its role in shaping India's foreign policy through soft power. The five-story, stupa-shaped library will be inaugurated in December, featuring approximately 3.5 lakh books, with a focus on digitisation to prevent the destruction experienced by the ancient Nalanda University. The library will include sections on historical texts, contemporary works, and commentary by students.

Chaturvedi explained the concepts of Shastra, Shaastra, and Shaastrartha, highlighting the importance of structured intellectual debate in the context of AI's growing influence. He addressed the controversy surrounding the promotion of Hinduism and Sanatan studies, emphasizing the need for balanced and fact-based academic discussions.

The university's International Relations and Peace Studies (IRPS) program has attracted students from 36 countries, with plans to establish a separate peace studies centre. Nalanda University's architecture and economic framework reflect ancient Indian design principles, contrasting with the colonial structures that have often dominated global education.

The university seeks to promote a comprehensive understanding of statecraft by incorporating Jain philosophy alongside Buddhist and Hindu traditions. The opening of the Gandhi Zayed Centre for Peace, Tolerance and Sustainability, and the introduction of courses in various Indian philosophies, including Sanatan, aims to challenge allegations of saffronisation and maintain academic integrity.