Panchakot
Mahavidyalaya, Purulia, is organizing a two-day seminar on 'Tales of
Timelessness: Understanding the Heritage of West Bengal' from 21st and
22nd March 2024. On this occasion, we are pleased to announce a call for
papers, inviting research students and independent scholars to submit
their original research (300-400 words abstract) along with their
bio-note to suvajit.halder@panchakotmv.ac.in.
Last Date of Abstract Submission: 1st March 2024.
Concept Note
Understanding/conserving
heritage is more than creating museums or collecting artifacts,
stories, and songs. Heritage is a living experience that weaves together
the threads of our past, present, and future. It goes beyond the
surface, delving into the stories, values, and legacies that shape our
identities as individuals and communities.
At its core, heritage
encapsulates tangible and intangible expressions of human creativity and
achievement. It encompasses historical sites, cultural practices,
languages, folklore, and collective memories that bind a society.
Heritage is a repository of knowledge, a bridge between generations, and
a testament to the diversity of human experiences.
Heritage is
dynamic, evolving with time while retaining its intrinsic essence. It
reflects the continuous interplay between tradition and modernity,
adaptation, and preservation. Recognizing and safeguarding heritage
becomes a collective responsibility as it contributes to a sense of
belonging and shared identity within communities.
Moreover,
understanding heritage fosters an appreciation and respect for cultural
diversity. It encourages cross-cultural dialogue, allowing individuals
to embrace the richness of traditions different from their own. Heritage
becomes a source of inspiration, a reservoir of creativity that sparks
innovation while grounding societies in their roots.
In essence,
understanding heritage is an invitation to explore the roots of our
existence, to appreciate the cultural mosaic that defines us. It prompts
us to preserve, celebrate, and transmit our heritage to future
generations, ensuring that the stories of our past continue to resonate
in the present and echo into the future. Heritage is not merely a static
snapshot of history; it is a vibrant, ever-unfolding narrative that
invites us to connect, learn, and carry forward the legacy of our shared
human experience.
Nestled in the eastern part of India, Bengal is
a state that exudes cultural richness and historical significance. Many
of its treasures are still unexplored but significant in understanding
the richness of Bengali culture. For instance, Garh Panchakot of Purulia
district, which holds immense significance in the history of this
region, remains historically unexplored. Another example is Telkupi
village, containing the finest and largest number of temples in one
place in the Chota Nagpur circle of Bengal, unknown to many Bengalis.
Moreover, the opulent tradition of handicrafts, paintings, dance, and
plays in these regions remains unheard of by many scholars and the
common masses. Therefore, to explore and understand the heritage of
Bengal more thoroughly, we invite scholars and professionals to present
their research in the seminar entitled 'Tales of Timelessness:
Understanding the Heritage of West Bengal.'
Objective:
The
primary objective of this seminar is to provide a comprehensive
exploration of West Bengal's heritage, shedding light on its historical,
cultural, and architectural significance. Participants will gain
insights into the evolution of the state's heritage and its impact on
contemporary society.
Themes
Historical Narratives:
- Historical events, chronology of lesser-known dynasties, epigraphic, and numismatic studies.
Cultural Narrative:
- Exploring the vibrant festivals and traditions that define the cultural ethos of West Bengal.
- Analyzing the role of literature, music, and performing arts in preserving and promoting cultural heritage.
Architectural Marvels:
- Investigating the architectural heritage of West Bengal, including iconic structures, temples, and palaces.
- Discussing the fusion of indigenous and foreign architectural styles that characterize the region.
Food/Dress/Residence:
- Delving into the unique culinary traditions of West Bengal, including the world-famous Bengali cuisine.
- Understanding the historical and cultural significance of traditional dishes and culinary practices.
- Exploring diverse traditions of dresses of Bengal.
- Different styles of houses and their ornamentation.
Craftsmanship and Handicrafts:
- Showcasing the intricate craftsmanship and traditional handicrafts passed down through generations.
- Discussing the role of artisans in preserving and promoting West Bengal's artistic heritage.
Socio-economic study of different heritage sites.
Exploring the possibility and making a plan to make lesser-known Heritage sites a tourist attraction.
Exploring the Heritage sites of Purulia with special reference to Garh Panchakot and its surrounding areas.
Expected Outcomes
- Increased awareness and appreciation of West Bengal's rich heritage.
- Creation of a platform for interdisciplinary dialogue and collaboration.
- Generation of research and documentation to contribute to the preservation of West Bengal's cultural legacy.
Free
accommodation may be offered at the college hostel, subject to
availability. The seminar committee can also arrange accommodation at
resorts (Panchet Hill) for participants on payment. No TA will be
provided to the participants.
Registration fees:
For offline presentation: INR 1500/-
For online Presentation: INR 500/-
Selected papers will be published in a special issue of PANCHAKOTesSAYS: Multidisciplinary, Refereed, International Journal, ISSN: 0976-4968.
https://journal.panchakotmv.ac.in
For any queries, please feel free to write to us at suvajit.halder@panchakotmv.ac.in.
N.B.: A guided tour of Garh Panchakot will be organised for the Participants after the Seminar.