Vada in Theory and Practice: Studies in Debates, Dialogues and Discussions in Indian Intellectual Discourses c2.14

c2.14

Finally it is intended to search the resonances and percolations of the *vāda* traditions in modern times, to investigate how this tradition still continues to enrich our intellectual life and can contribute to create better stands and harmony in our society. Some of the spiritual or religious *gurus* like Ramana Maharshi, J. Krishnamurti and Vinoba Bhave have served as men of dialogues. Of these, Vinoba Bhave, remains most misunderstood, yet most versatile and learned *bhāṣyakāra* of ancient wisdom. His *āśrama* at Paunar, Wardha functioned as a vibrant place for discussions on social, moral and religious issues, and continued to be frequently visited by persons from diverse walks of life. Vinoba Bhave strived to create conciliations in a society torn by strife. Texts like *Samaṇasutta*, *Svarājyaśāstra*, commentaries on *Gītā* and *Japujī*, as well as the institutions like Ācāryakula and Sarvasevāsaṅgha were created due to his efforts. The idea of giving up the fight (*raṇachoḍanīti*), Sakalāyatanapaddhati and silence mooted by him are fresh manifestations of the potential nature of *vāda*.