Speaker: Shri Raghava Krishna, Founder & CEO, Brhat, Hyderabad
The third lecture in the series was delivered by Shri Raghava Krishna, Founder & CEO, Brhat, on the topic “Sanskrit Studies for Think Tanks & Policy Engagements.” The session explored how civilizations generate ideas that shape governance, institutions, and public policy. A central argument was that policy is never neutral. It reflects deeper assumptions about human nature, knowledge, freedom, and well-being. Shri Raghava Krishna stressed the importance of cognitive sovereignty. A rising nation must engage globally while staying rooted in its own civilizational frameworks. He noted that Sanskrit Studies extends well beyond language. It opens pathways into philosophy, ethics, statecraft, logic, and education. The goal, he emphasized, is not nostalgia for tradition. It is rigorous research and intellectual contribution to present-day challenges. He described education as a strategic lever for shaping minds, values, and leadership. He further argued that Indian Knowledge Systems must actively engage with present challenges, whether in governance, sustainability, or AI. The session ultimately reframed the core question. Rather than asking what careers Sanskrit studies can lead to, it asked how these studies can cultivate thinkers and leaders equipped to address contemporary challenges through a civilizationally rooted lens.