A distinguished panel convenes to discuss Utpal Kumar’s “Bharat Rising: Dharma, Democracy, Diplomacy,” delving into India’s civilizational ethos and the concept of Bharat. The panel reflects on key moments in India’s history. They also address issues such as temple control and discrimination in government treatment of temples. The discussion extends to India’s unique position as the only surviving civilization. Insights on India’s relations with neighboring countries and global powers like the US and China are also discussed. The panel provides a comprehensive overview of India’s past, present, and potential future role in the global arena.
About the Speakers: Bibek Debroy (Padma Shri) is a distinguished Indian economist, author, and scholar, renowned for his contributions to economic policy, academia, and public discourse. He is the chairman of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister of India. He has served as a member of several government bodies and advisory committees.
Kanwal Sibal (Padma Shri) served as India’s Foreign Secretary, and prior to that, he held various diplomatic positions, including serving as India’s Ambassador to Turkey, Egypt, France, and Russia. He has been involved in numerous high-level negotiations and has represented India’s interests on the global stage effectively.
Ashwin Sanghi is a prominent Indian author known for his gripping thrillers that blend historical fiction, mythology, and mystery. Sanghi is also an entrepreneur and philanthropist, with interests in various sectors including real estate and hospitality.
Rajiv Dogra is an Indian diplomat, television commentator, writer and an artist. He was the Indian Ambassador to Italy and Romania and Consul General to Karachi, Pakistan. He was also India’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Agencies based in Rome. Dogra is also an accomplished writer having authored several books and articles on international relations, diplomacy, and contemporary issues.
Utpal Kumar, the opinion editor at News18 and Firstpost, boasts a rich journalistic career spanning two decades having contributed to publications such as Hindustan Times, Mail Today (India Today Group), and the Sunday Guardian. With a plethora of articles published in distinguished newspapers and magazines, Kumar is recognized as one of the most outspoken nationalist voices in mainstream media.
Rami Niranjan Desai is a multi-faceted individual, serving as an author, anthropologist, and scholar specializing in the North East region of India. Her primary focus lies in exploring themes of ethnic identity, tribal concerns, and insurgency within the region. Her written contributions are frequently featured in leading newspapers, and she is a prominent panelist on both Hindi and English news channels.
