The Seventh All-India Oriental Conference
By P. C. Bagchi
Summary
This report provides an overview of the sessions and outcomes of the Seventh All-India Oriental Conference, held in 1933. Delegates from across India and abroad presented papers on subjects ranging from Vedic studies and Sanskrit grammar to archaeology, epigraphy and linguistics. The conference included sectional meetings for Sanskrit, Prakrit, Pali, Buddhist studies, history and archaeology. Highlights included discussions on recently discovered inscriptions, debates on Vedic chronology, and new interpretations of classical texts. Resolutions were passed urging the government and universities to support oriental research, preserve manuscripts and establish more chairs for the study of classical languages. The report also summarises key addresses by prominent scholars, such as a presidential speech emphasising the relevance of oriental studies to modern India and the need for collaboration between eastern and western scholars. The conference fostered networking among researchers and showcased the diversity of oriental scholarship in India.
Conclusion
The Seventh All-India Oriental Conference exemplified the vibrancy of oriental studies in early 20th-century India. By bringing together scholars of languages, history and archaeology, it advanced research agendas and underscored the importance of preserving India’s cultural heritage. The report concludes that continued institutional support and scholarly exchange are vital for sustaining this momentum.