International Conference on Maharaja Ranjit Singh Organized at Desh Bhagat University
Mandi Gobindgarh, March 15 (Roop Naresh): The Centre for South Asian Studies and the Faculty of Social Sciences and Languages, Desh Bhagat University, Mandi Gobindgarh, jointly organized a one-day International Conference on “Revisiting Maharaja Ranjit Singh and His Times”. Eminent historians, academicians, researchers and scholars from across India and abroad participated in the conference.
The event was graced by Chancellor Dr. Zora Singh, Pro-Chancellor Dr. Tajinder Kaur, Vice Chancellor Prof. Harsh Sadawarti, Pro Vice-Chancellor Prof. Amarjit Singh, Special Chief Guest Padma Shri Prof. Raghuvendra Tanwar, Chief Guest Sardar Harpreet Singh Sahni CEO PTC News and Keynote Speaker Prof. Harjinder Singh Dilgeer.
Dr. Renu Sharma, Incharge of the Faculty of Social Sciences and Languages, welcomed the dignitaries and participants. Prof. Ram Singh Gurna, Director of the Conference, highlighted the objective of revisiting the life, governance and historical significance of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Zora Singh emphasized Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s visionary leadership, justice-oriented governance and commitment to religious harmony. Dr. Tajinder Kaur described his rule as a symbol of unity, inclusiveness and progressive administration. Prof. Amarjit Singh highlighted the Maharaja’s balanced leadership that combined military strength with diplomatic wisdom.
Padma Shri Prof. Raghuvendra Tanwar noted that Maharaja Ranjit Singh was a ruler deeply connected with the people of Punjab and created an inclusive state where people of different communities served together. Chief Guest Sardar Harpreet Singh Sahni highlighted the Maharaja’s courage, determination and fearless leadership in establishing a powerful empire.
Keynote Speaker Prof. Harjinder Singh Dilgeer delivered an insightful lecture on the political developments during the Maharaja’s reign and his strategic resistance to the expanding influence of the British.
The conference featured four technical sessions in which 62 research papers were presented on various aspects of Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s life, administration, diplomacy, military strategy and socio-cultural contributions.
The valedictory address was delivered by Prof. Sukhdev Singh Sohal, former Head of the Department of History, G.N.D. University, while the session was chaired by Dr. Khushhal Singh, General Secretary, Kendri Sri Guru Singh Sabha, Chandigarh.
Dr. Surjit Kaur Patheja Director Perforfing Arts and Media proposed the vote of thanks for the inaugural session, and the overall vote of thanks was delivered by Prof. Dharminder Singh, Coordinator, Centre for Punjabi Language, Folklore and Culture.The conference concluded with meaningful academic discussions and appreciation for the university’s efforts in promoting historical research.
