Bhubaneswar: The Arpan Society of Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bhubaneswar organized an enlightening spiritual discourse titled “Mind and Consciousness – A Vedantic Outlook” on 17th November 2025 at the Udayagiri Hall of Learning. The session was delivered by Swami Sarvapriyananda ji Maharaj, Minister-in-Charge and spiritual leader of the Vedanta Society of New York, and was attended by students, faculty, staff, and guests from across the Institute.
Swami Sarvapriyananda, renowned for his clear and modern interpretation of Advaita Vedanta, delivered an insightful discourse on the nature of human experience. Speaking to students, faculty, and spiritual seekers, he explained that while the mind is constantly changing—filled with thoughts, emotions, and perceptions—consciousness remains the silent, unchanging witness. Using Vedantic metaphors, he described the mind as reflected light and consciousness as the original light, the true source of awareness. He clarified that since we can observe our thoughts, the real Self is not the mind but the consciousness that illumines it. He emphasized that recognizing this separation brings emotional balance, clarity, and inner freedom, and that true peace arises not from controlling the mind but from realizing the ever-present, unchanging nature of consciousness.
The event concluded with a highly interactive Q&A session where the audience engaged in thought-provoking discussions on self-awareness, identity, and the pursuit of inner peace.
Prof. Partha Sarathi De from the School of Minerals, Metallurgical and Materials Engineering of IIT Bhubaneswar delivered the welcome address and introduced the guest. Prof. Dinakar Pasla, Dean (Sponsored Research & Industrial Consultancy) also graced the occasion. Dr. Umesh Chandra Sahoo, Associate Professor, School of Infrastructure, along with the volunteers of the Arpan Society, coordinated the programme.
