THE team of Shri Ramdeobaba College of Engineering and Management (RCOEM) had the honour and privilege of meeting the Hon’ble President of India, Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhawan, New Delhi. The meeting took place in presence of the former CJI Sharad Bobde, sculpture artist, Padmavibhushan Sudarshan Sahoo, Pushpa Sahoo, Sthapati Ar. Abhishek Deshpande, Chairman RCOEM, Satyanarayan Nuwal, and Principal RCOEM, Dr. Rajesh Pande.

RCOEM has initiated a programme Sthapatya Veda in accordance with Veda Sarva Shiksha Abhiyaan, introduced by the Govt. of India under the patronage of Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This programme, a distinctive endeavour based on the principles of Vastu Shastra focuses on the principles of design, construction, and architecture that are in harmony with the laws of nature. Sudarshan Sahoo communicated the purpose of the visit to the President. This is a creative product by Sharad Bobde who inspired the team to institutionalise Sthapatya Veda- the very first of its kind. In his interaction, he proposed the need to institutionalise the study in India and abroad. The dignitaries discussed this visionary programme with the President during this meet.

Sthapati Ar. Abhishek Deshpande, who is also the Course Director, elucidated on the highlights of the programme that is introduced in collaboration with the Mayan Foundation. The attempt will be a global pioneering centre for the study of Sthapatya Veda. Sthapatya Veda is an upveda of Atharvaveda which is used to design a range of structures, from homes to temples and public buildings. Many of India’s ancient architectural masterpieces and renowned international sites were built according to the principles of this Veda.

The interpretation of ancient Sthapatya Veda with modern architectural technology is focused to create a positive living environment, and promote health, wealth, and prosperity. The President was appreciative of the alignment of the incredible programme with the Veda Sarva Shiksha Abhiyaan, a campaign launched to promote the study of Vedas in India. By reviving and promoting Vedic education, it aims to preserve India’s rich cultural heritage and encourage the use of traditional techniques in design, construction and urban planning. Dr. Rajesh Pande, Principal RCOEM established that the incorporation of this programme by its Civil Engineering Department will offer young engineers a unique perspective an opportunity to design and create structures while preserving the integrity and rich cultural Indian heritage.