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 Reflections on Art and Aesthetics: Special Lecture by Prof. Dr. Ashutosh Mohan Photos: Babban Bid February 7, 2025 On 6th February 2025, the Faculty of Arts, Communication, and Indic Studies (FACIS) at Sri Sri University had the privilege of hosting a special talk titled "Reflections on Arts and Aesthetics" by the distinguished scholar Prof. (Dr.) Ashutosh Mohan. Known for his erudition and insightful interpretations of English Literature and Aesthetics, Prof. Mohan is currently a professor at Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University, New Delhi. With over two decades of teaching and research experience, his expertise encompasses Indian English Literature, Comparative Aesthetics, and Postcolonial Studies.  Prof. Ashutosh Mohan The lecture hall was filled with eager students and faculty members, all looking forward to gaining deeper insights into the complex world of arts and aesthetics from such an accomplished academician. The session began with Prof. Mohan introducing the fundamental concepts of Art and Aesthetics, emphasizing how these two domains are intrinsically connected. He explained that Art refers to a range of creative practices - such as visual art, literature, music, dance, and theatre - through which individuals express emotions, ideas, and experiences. Each artistic expression offers a unique lens through which we can perceive and understand life. On the other hand, Aesthetics is the philosophical study of beauty, taste, and the nature of artistic experience. It seeks to understand how we perceive, appreciate, and evaluate art, delving into subjective responses and objective standards that define what is beautiful or meaningful. Prof. Mohan eloquently elaborated on the interplay between subjective and objective elements in art. While individual perception plays a significant role in shaping our experience of art, he also emphasized the importance of universal themes and timeless qualities that resonate across cultures and generations. Through this lens, art becomes a transformative experience - capable of bridging the personal and the universal, the emotional and the intellectual. A significant portion of Prof. Mohan's talk was dedicated to how art reflects and shapes the world around us. He traced how various forms of art - whether classical or contemporary - mirror societal values, struggles, and aspirations. He also touched on the philosophical roots of aesthetics in both Western and Indian traditions, offering comparative insights that fascinated the audience. The Indian aesthetic philosophy rooted in the concepts of Rasa (essence) and Bhava (emotion) was juxtaposed with Western theories of beauty and artistic value, making the lecture a rich and multi-dimensional experience.  Prof. Mohan spoke of how art can evoke powerful emotions and lead to deeper self-awareness. He encouraged the audience to approach art not just as consumers but also as aesthetes and participants - allowing it to challenge and transform their perspectives. He reminded students and faculty that art and aesthetics are not confined to galleries, theatres, or classrooms; they are embedded in everyday experiences, shaping how we interpret and engage with life itself. At the end of his lecture, Prof. Mohan invited questions from the audience. What followed was an enthusiastic and thought-provoking exchange between the speaker and the students. The session quickly transformed into an open dialogue, with students eager to share their perspectives and pose questions. Prof. Mohan answered each question with patience, depth, and a touch of humor, creating a warm and interactive atmosphere.  In just two hours, he not only shared his vast knowledge but also built an instant connection with the students. His ability to simplify complex concepts and relate them to everyday experiences left a lasting impression on everyone present. Many students, visibly inspired, gathered around him for informal discussions after the session. One of the most touching moments occurred when a student, overwhelmed with gratitude, attempted to touch his feet as a gesture of respect. Prof. Mohan gently stepped back, affectionately addressing her as Gudia (daughter). With a fatherly smile, he said, "Do not touch anyone's feet. Women are the embodiment of positivity and strength in our lives - appearing as daughters, mothers, sisters, wives, and even goddesses. They give us the wisdom to enrich our lives and the strength to sustain them." His words carried a profound message of gender respect and equality, leaving a deep impact on all present. Listening to Prof. Mohan was a humbling and enlightening experience. His profound understanding of art and life, combined with his humane approach, made the session a memorable one. As a listener, it felt like being in the presence of a true guide - someone who not only shares wisdom but also touches hearts with his sincerity and warmth. Meeting such a scholar makes one reflect on the true purpose of education: to nurture humanity, foster self-identity, and inspire a lifelong quest for knowledge.  With students of FACIS The talk by Prof. Ashutosh Mohan was much more than a lecture on art and aesthetics; it was a journey into the depths of human experience. The session was both intellectually stimulating and emotionally enriching, leaving the audience with a renewed sense of appreciation for art and life. The students were particularly grateful for the opportunity to interact with such a distinguished scholar, whose words will undoubtedly remain with them for a long time. Prof. Mohan's visit will be remembered as a landmark event in the academic calendar of Sri Sri University's Faculty of Arts, Communication, and Indic Studies. The session not only expanded the intellectual horizons of students but also inspired them to view art as a powerful medium for personal growth and social change.  Ratikant Mohapatra, as Director of Srjan and Dean of the Faculty of Arts, Communication, and Indic Studies at Sri Sri University, stands as a distinguished figure in Indian classical dance. With a career spanning over 40 years, his artistry as a dancer, choreographer, and educator has profoundly shaped Odissi's journey. Under his guidance, Srjan has earned national and global acclaim, merging neo-classical innovation with traditional grace. Honoured with the Central and State Sangeet Natak Akademi Awards and a Guinness World Record for orchestrating 555 Odissi dancers, his legacy reflects a steadfast dedication to the evolution and timeless beauty of Odissi. 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