General: |
Since late Vedic times in the Sanskrit tradition and perhaps far earlier among proto-Dravidian and tribal peoples of the South, the vigorous and complex deity Skanda or Murukan has exerted a powerful influence upon Indian literature and religious thought. Even today, his cult continues to command the allegiance of millions in South India, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Mauritius, Reunion Island and wherever there are expatriate Tamil communities.
The Institute of Asian Studies (Chennai) proudly hosted the First International Conference Seminar on Skanda-Murukan in Chennai on 28-31 December, 1998. This event brought together for the first time some 135 scholars of various disciplines from 21 countries around the world sharing a common interest in the composite Aryan-Dravidian god Skanda-Murukan and as well as presentations by English-articulate devotees from India and other countries. The Conference assembled in a single forum leading scholars and devotees for a wide-ranging exchange of findings and interpretations concerning the god and his cult.
The Second International Conference Seminar on Skanda-Murukan took place in Mauritius 24-28 April, 2001 in Mauritius. The Third International Conference held in Malaysia during November 2-5, 2003, was an exceptional opportunity for scholars and bhaktas alike to exchange findings and insights in a conducive environment hosted by the Malaysian organisers. For scholars especially, the event represented an extraordinary opportunity to meet and interact with fellow scholars and exceptionally well-informed Murukan bhaktas.
|
Scope of Murukan Conferences
|
The International Murukan Conference Series accepts presentations concerning the cult of Skanda-Murukan from earliest times up to the present as considered from these disciplinary perspectives:
- History
- Mythology
- Literature
- Religion
- Art History
|
- Musicology
- Folklore
- Philosophy
- Anthropology
- Sociology
|
|
Kuala Lumpur Twin Towers (left) and Batu Caves (right)
|
Multi-media presentations including video productions and slide presentations are accepted for screening. The Murukan Conference Series also hosts dramatic performances of Murukan Tiruvilaiyatal in the Bharata Natyam genre as well as other artistic performances.
NOTE: The Conference organisers provided meals and accommodation for the entire four-day conference, extras and a post-conference tour of Kuala Lumpur for participants, observers and their spouses for a nominal charge of US$100 per person. Presenters of papers will also receive a gratis copy of the Conference proceedings when it is released. |