The Department of Philosophy at Miranda House, established in 1948, boasts a rich legacy as one of the institution's oldest and most revered departments. Since its inception, the department has been a hub for intellectual exploration, fostering a community of visionary thinkers who have significantly contributed to the pursuit of philosophical knowledge. As a discipline that underpins the very foundations of human understanding, philosophy is a cornerstone of academic inquiry. The Department of Philosophy at Miranda House is distinguished by its exceptionally talented faculty, whose diverse expertise and inclusive approach create a vibrant and stimulating learning environment. This eclectic blend of ideas has transformed the department into a thriving intellectual hub, where philosophical exchange and critical thinking converge to inspire innovative solutions to real-world problems. The department's curriculum is carefully crafted to introduce students to the fundamental principles of philosophy, encouraging them to engage with complex ideas and apply them to pressing contemporary issues. This approach is reinforced by the department's collaborative spirit, evident in its interdisciplinary partnerships with various programs across the institution.
Throughout the academic year, the Department of Philosophy has hosted a range of engaging events, lectures, and activities that have fostered intellectual growth, creativity, and camaraderie among students and faculty. A notable highlight was the series of speaker sessions, featuring distinguished scholars and experts in the field of philosophy. These sessions included thought-provoking lectures by Mr. Bhavesh Yuj on "The Philosophy of Bhagavad Gita," Ms. Aleena Balsara on "Yogic Philosophy: Mind, Body, and Dualism," and Prof. Eric Synder on "Modern Philosophy of Conservation." In addition to these speaker sessions, the department collaborated with the Sanskrit Department to organize a three-day lecture series on "Mahabharat: Myth or History," featuring Shri Chandru Ramesh as the guest speaker. This event was hosted by the ISKCON Student's Union and provided a unique opportunity for interdisciplinary exploration and discussion.
The department also prioritized student welfare and community building, hosting a batch orientation program for freshers, a Teachers' Day celebration, and an Art Therapy Session led by professional Art Therapist Ms. Monica. These initiatives not only fostered a sense of belonging among students but also promoted emotional well-being and creative expression. The annual department fest, Gnosis, was a resounding success, featuring a lecture by Dr. Vijay Tankha on "Justice, Cosmic and Mortal in Greek Thought," a lecture by Ms. Alphy Geever on "Aristotle's Phusike and the Phusikoi," and a range of engaging events, including a debate competition, treasure hunt, and play. The fest culminated in a musical symposium by Rahul Soni and Saeem Rahim, showcasing the department's commitment to interdisciplinary exploration and creative expression.
In a bid to promote departmental identity and pride, the Department of Philosophy launched its exclusive merchandise, featuring tote bags, varsity jackets, badges, bookmarks, and stickers. This initiative aims to foster a sense of community and shared identity among students, faculty, and alumni, celebrating the department's rich legacy and contributions to philosophical inquiry.
Ultimately, the Department of Philosophy at Miranda House is a vibrant community of scholars, united by a shared passion for philosophical exploration and critical thinking. By cultivating a philosophical mindset and learning to engage with complex ideas, students develop the skills to challenge assumptions, analyze arguments, and develop innovative solutions to real-world problems. As the department continues to thrive, it remains committed to fostering a culture of intellectual curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking, inspiring future generations of philosophers and thinkers.