January 2017 - The Acropolitan Magazine

NOTE FROM THE EDITOR

As we march forward towards the peak of human accomplishment, let us, even if for only a fleeting moment, assess the true drive that motivates our progress. Technology has brought comfort and efficiency to every aspect of our lives. Medicine is able to remarkably manage physical suffering. The internet has brought the unprecedented speed with which to make informed choices. And yet, as if scrambling in the dark, happiness and fulfillment continue to elude many of us.

An inner voice whisperingly insists, as if yearning, that there must be more; a larger purpose, a more meaningful role for which each of us has arrived to this world. Some look for answers at museums, where glimpses of past civilizations are preserved as part of the human heritage; others investigate the arts – classical music or cinema. And many look to revive education as the means to help our youth discover life’s meaning. Exploring these faculties through the lens of philosophy, a love for wisdom, kindles a spark of wonder and joy – so essential to persist on the path to Discover, Awaken, and Transform into what lies in our potential. We invite you to join us as we embark on this voyage of hope, at the start of the new year!

ARTICLES IN THIS ISSUE

Down the Rabbit Hole: Tasneem Zakaria Mehta on Preservation of Heritage

January 1, 2017

By Manjula Nanavati

In five years Tasneem Zakaria Mehta revitalized a decayed and dying museum, transforming it into a vital and accessible cultural focal point for Mumbai. As vice-chairman of the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) and Honorary Director of the Dr. Bhau Daji Lad (BDL) Museum, Tasneem spearheaded the exhaustive research and the painstakingly detailed restoration of the museum’s architecture, its interiors and its exhibits. In recognition of her work, she earned the 2005 Unesco Heritage Asia Pacific award of Excellence for Conservation. At her home surrounded by art, sculptures and books that are her life-blood, Tasneem spoke to The Acropolitan about the importance of Art and the need to preserve our cultural heritage.

The Crisis of Western Education and the Role of Philosophy

January 1, 2017

By Sabine Leitner

In the developed world, the standards of literacy, numeracy, general knowledge and behaviour are falling. Millions of young people have also become disaffected from school and, despite the fact that previous generations have fought hard to make what was once a privilege of the rich accessible to all, do not see much point in formal education. In the U.K. for example, the figures of truanting have been going up for years and the problem has become so bad that the government is paying the most disaffected students in order to keep them in school and away from the streets.

Indian Classical Music – A Bridge to The Divine

January 1, 2017

By Dipti Sanzgiri

Om. The first sound of creation as per the Hindu tradition. That sound with which all ancient vedic prayers start and end, as if emulating the sacred process of creation through sound. The classical tradition of music in India therefore, has traditionally been treated as a sacred means to interact with the creative principle of Life; it has the potential to play the role of a bridge between the musician and the divine, the higher aspect of life. In that sense, the classical musician embarks upon a philosopher’s journey, seeking that connection with the source and destiny of all Life.

Philosophy for Living

January 1, 2017

By Yaron Barzilay

Today is a special day; it is the day that UNESCO marks as World Philosophy Day. It is great for us to be able to celebrate philosophy. Especially, since we shall also use the opportunity to launch a book written by Delia Steinberg Guzman (Honorary President of the International Organisation New Acropolis), entitled Philosophy for Living. She has written quite a lot of books, published and translated in many languages. This is the first one that is translated to English, and I am very happy that we have this opportunity today, to launch it together.

A New Philosophy of Life and Death

January 1, 2017

By Jorge Angel Livraga

Philosophy means “love of wisdom or knowledge”. It is a route illuminated by the sun of truth. Anything which does not respond to this essential characteristic is not philosophy, but mere speculation and alternative repetitions of what others have said, taking as much advantage of the old teachings as a spoon takes nourishment from and enjoys the soup in which it is dipped.

Spirituality and Contemporary Mainstream Cinema

January 1, 2017

By Sukesh Motwani

“Who were you that I lived with, walked with? The brother, the friend? Strife and love, darkness and light…are they workings of one mind, features of the same face? Oh my soul. Let me be in you now. Look out through my eyes. Look out at the things you made. All things shining.”