Acharya Mithilesh Nandini Sharan Declares India’s Ancient Legacy at Shabdotsav 2026

India’s rich history, deeply intertwined with the ancient Vedas, was at the forefront of discussions during the second day of Shabdotsav 2026 held at the Major Dhyan Chand Stadium in New Delhi. Acharya Mithilesh Nandini Sharan, the head of the Hanuman Niwas Peeth in Ayodhya Dham, made significant remarks about the origins and understanding of Indian history, asserting that the term “history” itself has roots in the Indian subcontinent.

During the event, a question arose regarding the assertion that India’s history had never been documented. Acharya Sharan responded emphatically, calling it a “complete lie” and a form of misinformation. He emphasized that this narrative has been perpetuated over time to distort the truth about India’s historical narrative. According to him, the word “history” has been utilized in India since the time of the Upanishads, highlighting the ancient tradition of historical writing in the country.

Acharya Sharan further elaborated on the profound significance of the Vedas, describing them as the oldest literary works globally. He argued that understanding India’s cultural richness requires integrating ancient values into contemporary perspectives. The central theme of Indian history, he noted, is ‘Shanta Rasa’, a concept reflected in revered texts such as the Ramayana and the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita.

The saint pointed out that in Indian society, knowledge of one’s history is vital, even influencing personal milestones such as marriage. He remarked that history extends beyond written records, permeating social life and identity.

Asserting the validity of the Vedas, Acharya Sharan countered claims that they are imaginary, characterizing such views as a form of “mental illness.” He explained the importance of imagination in the creative process, stating that all creations begin as imaginings that manifest into reality. He highlighted that the methodology of Kalpa, one of the six auxiliary sciences of the Vedas, underscores a systematic and scientific approach to what some dismiss as mere imagination.

In defending the Vedas, he stated that no scientific evidence has disproven their principles. “When science has not been able to prove something false, it is unfair to label it as imagination or myth,” he argued, labeling such assertions as misinformation.

Acharya Mithilesh Nandini Sharan’s remarks at Shabdotsav 2026 not only reaffirmed India’s ancient legacy but also called for a deeper appreciation of its historical and cultural narratives, thus inviting a re-examination of how history is perceived and valued in modern society.