Tag Dr. B. R. Mani

New Delhi, 11 Sep 2024:  The Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) is set to host the highly anticipated launch of the second edition of ‘Treasures of the Gupta Empire,’ a comprehensive exploration of one of India’s most illustrious dynasties. Written by esteemed historian Mr. Sanjeev Kumar, the book will be officially released on September 12th, 2024, at 4:00 PM at the Samvet Auditorium, IGNCA, New Delhi.

The Gupta Empire (320-550 CE) is often celebrated as India’s Golden Age, marking a period of profound achievements in art, literature, science, and governance. The upcoming book offers a deep dive into this era, focusing on the artistic legacy of the Gupta period, particularly its exceptional coinage. As a special highlight, attendees will have the unique opportunity to witness a rare collection of original Gupta coins, providing a tangible connection to the empire’s wealth and artistic sophistication.

The event will feature an esteemed panel of speakers including Dr. Sacchidanand Joshi, Member Secretary of IGNCA, and Dr. B.R. Mani, Director General of the National Museum. Joining them will be notable scholars such as Prof. K.K. Thaplyal from Lucknow University, Dr. Sanjay Kumar Manjul, Additional Director General of the Archaeological Survey of India, and Dr. Prashant Kulkarni, Chairman of the Indian Coin Society. Sanjeev Kumar, the author of the book, and Prof. (Dr.) Ramesh C. Gaur, Director of IGNCA, will also contribute their expertise to the discussions, making the event a rich blend of scholarly insights and historical reverence.

The book launch promises to be a significant cultural moment, providing deeper insights into the Gupta Empire’s influence on India’s historical trajectory. This event will offer a rare glimpse into the intellectual and artistic achievements of an era that continues to shape India’s cultural heritage.

This event is expected to be a landmark occasion for anyone interested in India’s historical and cultural legacy, offering a unique blend of scholarship, history, and art.

The University of Birmingham and the Indian Institute of Heritage have forged ties to create new opportunities in the fields of Heritage, Museums and Museology.

Dr. B. R. Mani, Vice-Chancellor, Indian Institute of Heritage and Professor Adam Tickell, Vice-Chancellor & Principal of the University of Birmingham, today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore a strategic partnership that will create impactful collaborations in the field of education and research. It will ensure participation of students and experts from both the institutions in various research projects as well student and academic exchange programmes Birmingham and Delhi.

Following today’s signing ceremony, Professor Adam Tickell commented: “The University of Birmingham is a global ‘civic’ university, and we are committed to forging meaningful education and research partnerships in India. Indian students occupy an important place in our global student community and our commitment to the country as a strategic partner.

“This exciting partnership with the Indian Institute of Heritage allows both institutions to build on our undoubted strengths across heritage, museums, and museology – creating wonderful opportunities for students and staff in both India and the UK.”

The University of Birmingham is renowned for its proficiency in heritage research, and its International Centre for Heritage stands as a global pioneer in adopting sustainable and innovative methods for heritage management practices and future strategies. The postgraduate programs offered by the Centre equip students with the necessary skills for pursuing careers in heritage, with numerous alumni holding prominent positions in museums and conservation agencies.

The University has established meaningful collaborations in India, supported by its India Institute, which seeks to enhance Birmingham’s presence, influence, and coherence in its involvement in the country.

Dr. B. R. Mani commented, “Indian Institute of Heritage is stepping towards making its global presence felt in the field of culture and heritage. This collaboration will result in creating informed and efficient heritage professionals and academicians in the future. It will be benefiting our students and staff. The Indian Institute of Heritage is focused on creating a comprehensive pedagogical framework with incorporation of modern working methodologies and technologies, work ethics, and other fundamentals.”

The Indian Institute of Heritage is a prominent cultural institution in India. It conducts research on India’s diverse heritage and provides outstanding educational opportunities that make significant contributions to the cultural, scientific, and economic aspects of India.

The institute offers M.A. and Ph.D. programs in various disciplines, including Museology, History of Art, Conservation, Archaeology, Paleography, Epigraphy, and Numismatics. These programs are enriched through close collaboration with the National Museum in New Delhi, involving engagement with galleries, exhibitions, storage and reserve collections, and the conservation laboratory.