Chitkara University hosts Acharya Prashant for conversation on spirituality and consciousness

Chitkara University hosted an interactive session by Acharya Prashant on spirituality, consciousness, culture, and freedom of thought. The Indian philosopher and author encouraged students to engage with ideas around self-awareness, freedom of choice, and the search for inner clarity. Dr. Niyati Chitkara, Vice President, Chitkara International Schools, also attended the session.

The discussion focused on the idea of mukti, or liberation from inner suffering through awareness, compassion, and self-understanding. Acharya Prashant described spirituality as a process of inward inquiry rather than adherence to rigid social conditioning or externally imposed beliefs. He also spoke about the importance of examining consciousness and approaching human experience with clarity and awareness.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Madhu Chitkara, President and Co-Founder, Chitkara University, said, “Universities must remain spaces where students can engage with diverse perspectives and reflect on questions that go beyond academics. Dialogues such as these encourage thoughtful inquiry and help young people develop clarity in their understanding of themselves and the world around them.”

The session also explored the distinction between spirituality and culture. Acharya Prashant described culture as a social construct shaped by time and context, while spiritual inquiry, he noted, is rooted in the enduring search for truth and liberation. Participants were encouraged to engage meaningfully with differing viewpoints and think independently.

The session forms part of Chitkara University’s continued emphasis on creating opportunities for intellectual engagement and reflective learning alongside academic study.