Reclaiming Truth: Healing from Historical Distortions and the Historiography of False Narratives in Indian History

Shimla, 13 August 2026: The Indian Institute of Advanced Study (IIAS), Shimla, organized the inaugural session of a two-day National Seminar on “Reclaiming Truth: Healing from Historical Distortions and the Historiography of False Narratives in Indian History” on 13 August 2026. The seminar, being held on 13 and 14 August 2026, brings together scholars, researchers, fellows, and academics to deliberate upon questions concerning historical interpretation, historiography, historical distortions, and the need for a critical and evidence-based understanding of Indian history.

The Keynote Address was delivered by
Shri Surya Sarathi Roy, Cultural Heritage Conservationist and Director, IHAR. In his insightful address, he discussed the relationship between historical memory, cultural heritage, and the preservation of authentic narratives. He emphasized the responsibility of scholars and institutions in safeguarding historical evidence and promoting a balanced and responsible engagement with India’s rich civilizational and cultural heritage.

The session was followed by the Presidential Address by Prof. Himanshu Kumar Chaturvedi, Director, IIAS, Shimla. In his address, Prof. Chaturvedi stressed the importance of scholarly objectivity, intellectual integrity, and evidence-based historical inquiry. He emphasized that the study of history must remain rooted in credible sources and critical analysis, while encouraging researchers to engage with multiple perspectives and interpretations. He also highlighted the role of academic institutions such as IIAS in fostering meaningful intellectual discourse on significant questions concerning India’s past and present.

The Introduction to the Theme was delivered by Dr. Pravat Ranjan Sethi, Department of History, Central University of Himachal Pradesh, Dharamshala, and Convener of the Seminar.

The inaugural session concluded with the Vote of Thanks proposed by Dr. Rajeev Kumar Mishra, Librarian/Incharge (ARO), IIAS, Shimla, who expressed gratitude to the distinguished speakers, the Convener, scholars, fellows, participants, and all those associated with the organization of the seminar. He acknowledged their valuable contributions and support in making the academic programme possible.

The conference also saw papers presented by other IHAR scholars Asstt Prof.Sneha Nagarkar, Dr Prof Amitava Chatterjee & Sandipan Chatterjee.