In the light of UNESCO World Philosophy Day 2025 teachers and leaders from New Acropolis undertook an exploration of UNESCO world heritage sites of Ajanta and Ellora in Aurangabad, India.
At these sites, Hindu, Buddhist and Jain traditions coexist in harmony—a beautiful example of India’s cultural heritage. And just as these caves reflect unity in diversity, so did our group: philosophers from many nations and cultures – India, Taiwan, Australia, Israel, Japan, Spain and the UK. The exploration was to participate in a shared pursuit of timeless wisdom.
The journey reinforced the message of philosophy to look beyond the visible into the essential harmonizing elements. While the sights and their history evoked awe, it was clear that the immovable monuments were evidence of an intimate interconnectedness.
The monolithic Kailasa temple carved out from a single stone is magnificent, its construction baffling. However behind the visible one can imagine a fraternity of artisans who over five generations worked in harmony, building to a vision which only their future generations would see fully.
The religious and cultural co-existence and mathematical and scientific genius is clear to the curious eye, and as philosophers one can
see that this example is most relevant in our times today as a key to live with depth and meaning.
There is nothing like a exploration with philosophers to awaken questions, inspire growth, and remind us that philosophy has always been a bridge between people, times and traditions.
This Celebration of World Philosophy Day is part of a global celebration by International Organization New Acropolis in over 50 Countries every year.
