SRM Institute of Science and Technology Hosts 6th International Saiva Siddhanta Conference
Chennai: The 6th International Saiva Siddhanta Conference was inaugurated at SRM Institute of Science and Technology (SRMIST), Kattankulathur, Chennai. The conference, jointly organized by Dharmapuram Adheenam and the Tamil Perayam of SRMIST, brought together scholars, spiritual leaders, and international delegates to discuss Saiva thought and Tamil spiritual heritage.
The conference featured the release of 300 scholarly publications and included 12 sessions with over 300 research articles. Fourteen countries participated in the event, which was attended by dignitaries including Union Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda and TamilNadu Governor R.N. Ravi.
“Religion, at its core, is about being good and doing good—values that align closely with the spirit of science, inquiry, and service. Through initiatives like language preservation, interfaith respect, and global academic exchange, SRM stands as a bridge between tradition and innovation.” said T. R. Paarivendhar, Founder Chancellor, SRM Group of Institutions
His Holiness the 27th Guru Mahasannidhanam of Dharmapuram Adheenam, Sri-la-Sri Kayilai Masilamani Desika Gnanasambandha Paramacharya Swamigal stated, “The objective of this International Shaiva Siddhanta Conference is to promote and practice the divine thoughts of the four Saiva tenets — Pati, Pasu, Pāsam, and Maya. More than 300 research articles are being presented in 12 sessions, and 75 books are being released. Fourteen countries have participated, continuing a tradition started in 1984. This conference is a sacred offering of knowledge and unity, blessed by the presence of Aadheenam heads from Kumbakonam, Madurai, and others.”
Union Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda, expressed: “Saiva Siddhanta is not merely a religious philosophy—it is a profound civilizational force that defines the sacred relationship between the soul, the Divine, and the world. Rooted in devotion, virtue, and the quest for liberation through divine grace, it has deeply shaped Tamil identity and spiritual heritage. Today, as we witness great strides in medical science, there is a meaningful synergy emerging between science, humanity, and religion—each complementing the other in the service of life and higher truth.”
“Saiva Siddhanta should be included in philosophy courses, and texts like the Tirumurai must be recognized as the pinnacle of Tamil literature. Sadly, these treasures are being gradually erased through neglect or ideological bias. Universities must act to preserve and promote them. Saiva Siddhanta should be expanded to a larger canvas and nurtured. Conferences like this stimulate intellectual growth, leading to renewed cultural insight. I commend the organizers and scholars, and encourage more such initiatives from our academic and spiritual communities.” R.N. Ravi, Governor of Tamil Nadu.
The conference aimed to promote and practice the divine thoughts of Saiva Siddhanta, with a focus on its relevance in contemporary discourse and its connection to Tamil identity and spirituality. The event also included the inauguration of SRM Trauma and Emergency Care and the SRM Institute of Cardiac Sciences by Jagat Prakash Nadda.
