Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav will inaugurate a national workshop on the theme “Astronomy and Indian Knowledge Tradition” on Saturday, June 21, at the Varahamihira Astronomical Observatory in Dongla, Ujjain. The workshop will witness participation of eminent scientists and academicians from across the country. A variety of educational and scientific activities will take place during the event, including a yoga camp, zero shadow observation, science show, STEM workshop, lectures and discussion sessions.
The focus of the workshop will be on traditions of Indian astronomy and their scientific relevance. Experts will hold detailed discussions on integration of Indian knowledge systems with modern science. The event will strive to connect India's ancient intellectual heritage with contemporary scientific advancements. The workshop is being jointly organized under the aegis of the Madhya Pradesh Council of Science and Technology, Bhopal Vijnana Bharati; Acharya Varahamihira Nyas, Ujjain; Indian Institute of Technology, Indore; Vikram University, Ujjain; Madhya Pradesh Hindi Granth Academy, Bhopal; and Veer Bharat Nyas.
During the programme, Chief Minister Dr. Yadav will observe the zero shadow phenomenon using a Shanku Yantra at the Padmashri Dr. Vishnu Shridhar Wakankar Observatory. He will also inaugurate an ultra-modern planetarium constructed by Acharya Varahamihira Nyas with support from Avada Foundation. A planetarium show will also be presented on the occasion. Dr. Yadav will address the inaugural session of the national workshop in the observatory auditorium, where a discussion will take place on the subject of astronomy and the Indian knowledge tradition.
It is noteworthy that a cutting-edge digital planetarium has been established in the village of Dongla by Acharya Varahamihira Nyas, with financial support from the Avada Foundation and technical collaboration from Deep Sky Planetarium, Kolkata. The planetarium aims to provide knowledge about astronomy and quench curiosity regarding natural phenomena among the general rural population and school children. The planetarium is equipped with an 8-meter diameter FRP dome, an E-Vision 4 digital projector, and a digital sound system. The air-conditioned spherical theater can accommodate 55 people at a time, offering a thrilling and informative experience of cosmic events. The cost of the planetarium is approximately ₹1.6 crore.