JNU Launches Shivaji Centre to Explore Indian Strategic Thought
Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) in New Delhi is establishing a new center named after Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. This center will focus on Shivaji Maharaj’s strategic insights, governance, and the idea of “Akhand Bharat” (undivided India). The initiative aims to explore his leadership, military strategies, and contributions to India’s unity, offering insights for modern geopolitical discussions.
Shift from Western Perspectives
JNU Vice-Chancellor Santishree D Pandit highlighted the need to move away from traditional Western perspectives in studying India’s security and strategic thought. She stated that the center would provide alternative models and focus on Shivaji Maharaj’s naval strategy, guerrilla warfare, and Hindavi Swaraj, which are often overlooked.
Support and Collaboration
The Maharashtra government has supported the center with INR 10 crore, aiding its initial activities and research. Three experts from the Maharashtra government will collaborate with JNU faculty from the School of International Studies. The center plans to offer specialized courses such as Indian Strategic Thought, Maratha Military History, and Guerrilla Warfare at the master’s level, with future plans for PhD programs.
Promoting Scholarly Exchanges
The center aims to foster scholarly exchanges and deepen understanding of India’s strategic perspectives through Shivaji Maharaj’s contributions. Pandit emphasized Shivaji Maharaj’s importance as a historical icon, especially in Maharashtra, and the need to reassess India’s historical figures to shape new strategic narratives.
Future Plans
The center is expected to start its activities by the next semester, organizing national seminars, publishing research articles, and developing books. It will collaborate with archives in Maharashtra and other regions to gather research materials. The Shivaji Centre aims to be a source of pride for India’s heritage, reassessing Shivaji Maharaj’s role in history and the strategic lessons relevant today.
Doubts Revealed
JNU -: JNU stands for Jawaharlal Nehru University, which is a famous university in India located in New Delhi. It is known for its focus on social sciences, arts, and humanities.
Shivaji Centre -: The Shivaji Centre is a new center at JNU named after Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, a great Indian warrior king. The center will study his ideas and contributions to India’s history and unity.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj -: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was a famous Indian king known for his bravery and leadership. He founded the Maratha Empire in western India and is celebrated for his strategic skills and efforts to unite India.
INR 10 crore -: INR 10 crore is a large amount of money, specifically 10 crore Indian Rupees. It is being provided by the Maharashtra government to support the new Shivaji Centre at JNU.
Maratha Military History -: Maratha Military History refers to the history of the Maratha Empire’s military strategies and battles. The Marathas were known for their strong army and played a significant role in Indian history.
Vice-Chancellor -: The Vice-Chancellor is the head of a university, similar to a principal in a school. Santishree D Pandit is the current Vice-Chancellor of JNU.
Western perspectives -: Western perspectives refer to ideas and viewpoints that come from Western countries like the USA and Europe. The new center at JNU wants to focus more on Indian viewpoints instead.