Bhaktivedanta Institute’s Science and Religion Group of Kolkata

Bhaktivedanta Institute’s Science and Religion Group of Kolkata

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Bhaktivedanta Institute
Vedanta and Science Educational Research Foundation
Kolkata (Calcutta), West Bengal

Formed in September 2003, this group of local scientists, scholars, students and interested individuals come together to promote serious dialogue between science and religion among students and scholars in colleges, universities and institutions in and around Kolkata. Bringing together Hindus, Muslims, and Christians, the society works together in understanding various perspectives at the intersection of faith and reason. Plans include monthly meetings, for reading and discussion, public lectures, seminars and symposia; the development of extensive in-house, public library resources; essay and debating competitions to attract and engage young scholars and students in considering the importance of the dialogue; an annual seminar on life and origins inviting religious scholars from different traditions and religious/disciplinary perspectives; and the publication of a journal. Topics for exploration, in addition to historical and contemporary science and faith issues, include origins; meaning and purpose; science, technology, and faith and conflict resolution. Beyond regular, local group meetings, members of also participate extensively at international conferences; produce multiple publications; and support the activities of two mobile science-faith resource centers that travel throughout the country that provide presentations, materials, and seminars to students and local community members, and sponsors book tables and presentations during events across India.