Council
Our distinguished council members are esteemed scholars and practitioners in the field of Kashmir Saivism, bringing together a wealth of knowledge and expertise. Each member is a respected authority in their area of specialization, dedicated to preserving and disseminating the profound teachings of this ancient tradition. With extensive backgrounds in philosophy, spirituality, and meditative practices, our council ensures the highest standards of academic integrity and spiritual insight in our courses. Their collective wisdom and guidance provide a rich, authentic learning experience for all students, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of Kashmir Saivism.

Director and PI
Dr. R Ramanand
Dr. R Ramanand is a highly accomplished and qualified person with a wide range of expertise, making him an ideal candidate to undertake the project "Abhinavagupta Institute of Advanced Studies exploring Kashmir Saivism." His numerous professional recognitions, awards, and fellowships, including the National Education Test (NET) in multiple years, Junior Research Fellow (JRF) in 2016, and Senior Research Fellow in 2019, demonstrate his exceptional academic achievements and dedication to research. As an accomplished author, Dr. Ramanand has published peer-reviewed articles, books, and book chapters on diverse subjects, including topics related to Yoga, Tantra, and Indian philosophy. His work reflects a deep understanding of the subject matter and a penchant for exploring intricate aspects of these ancient traditions. His participation in international conferences and seminars on Ayurveda, Homeopathy, and Chinese Medicine, as well as his engagement in workshops on Tantra-based on Kashmir Saivism, showcases his commitment to knowledge dissemination and academic engagement on a global scale. With vast experience in conducting workshops, seminars, and lectures on topics like Healing Autism, Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, and Tantra philosophy, Dr. Ramanand exhibits strong communication and pedagogical skills, crucial for effectively leading an academic institution like the Abhinavagupta Institute of Advanced Studies. Moreover, his ongoing project on Tantra based on Kashmir Saivism, and his role as Editor-in-Chief of Sivam Magazine, leading tantra continuing education, demonstrates his dedication to furthering research in this field and promoting knowledge exchange among scholars and practitioners. Dr. Ramanand's background, consisting of academic excellence, extensive research, and his involvement in diverse educational initiatives, positions him as a competent and influential leader for the proposed project. His passion for Indian philosophy and his commitment to preserving and exploring the ancient wisdom of Kashmir Saivism will undoubtedly contribute to the success and advancement of the Abhinavagupta Institute of Advanced Studies. Academic Qualification: BA English Literature and World History, MSW, MPhil and PhD Work Experience: 2009- Coordinator of Nanma Trust and Our Responsibility to children, a psychological intervention undertaken by Kerala Police, 2015-Teacher at Hillblooms School, Mananthavady, Wayanad, Kerala, 2014 to 2016- MPhil research at Jawaharlal Nehru University, Editor in chief of Shivam Magazine since 2020, Director of Abhinavagupta Institute of Advanced Studies since 202, Secretary of Rhythmbhara Charitable Trust since 2023, February. Professional Recognition/ Award/ Prize/ Certificate, Fellowship (if any): National Education Test (NET in 2009, 2014, 2015), Junior Research Fellow (JRF) awarded in 2016, Senior Research Fellow in 2019. Peer-Reviewed Publications: Altering Domains of Yoga: An Arcane Discipline or Orthodox Philosophy? Books/Reports/Chapters/General Articles etc.: 1.Kuttichathan Ayyapan Sasthav by DC Books 2.Vijnana Bhairva Tantra by Logos Pattambi 3.Kashmira Saivam by Anuttara books 4.Tantra Rahasyam by Anuttara books 5.Paramarahasyam by Niyatham books 6.Ennanu aa Yathra by Vaikhari books Book Chapters 1.Sabarimalayil Kottravai in Sabarimalayum Sthreekalum published by Amazon Westland books 2.Preface to Sreechakra and Sreevidya Sadhana by Dr. Sreenath Karayatt Seminars and workshops 1.Healing Autism-seminar conducted by commodore foundation at Anna Alumni Association Hall Chennai on January 10 2.Presented paper titled Healing Autism and insights from Yoga Sutras of Patanjali. 3.International Conference on Ayurveda, Homeopathy and Chinese Medicine Held at Munich Germany, organised by Conference series LLC. 4.Presented Paper on Medical Pluralism and Indian state. 5.Conducted 90 workshops on Tantra based Kashmir Saivism at Kerala 6.Delivered lecture on Tantra as a philosophy based on Kashmir Saivism at Kochi International Book festival supported by ICPR 7.Conducted workshop at Central University of Jammu on Yoga and Meditation with special reference to Kashmir Saivism Ongoing/completed Projects during the last 5 years: 1.Ongoing project of Tantra based on Kashmir Saivism for the last 5 years 2.Since last two years leading tantra continuing education undertaken by Sivam Magazine for ten years as the editor in chief of Sivam Magazine. Correspondence Address: Kalathingal House, PO Pantherankave, Calicut, 673019 Email: ramanand.msw@gmail.com Contact Numbers: +91 8848772028 Institution: Abhinava Gupta Institute of Advanced Studies

Co-PI
Dr Ajay Kumar Singh
Dr. Ajay Kumar is an accomplished academic with a diverse background in Sanskrit Buddhist Philosophy, Pali-Prakrit Scheme, and Comparative Religions and Civilization. As an Assistant Professor at the Centre for Comparative Religions and Civilization, Central University of Jammu, he has been actively contributing to the field of religious studies since July 2016. Prior to this, he served as an Assistant Professor in Sanskrit Buddhist Philosophy at the Central Institute of Buddhist Studies, Leh, where he demonstrated expertise in the subject matter. Dr. Kumar's significant contributions to the academic world are evident from his peer-reviewed publications, which amount to 27. He has also authored two books, contributed to ten chapters, and written five general articles, showcasing his prowess in scholarly writing and research. His M.Phil. thesis was awarded a prestigious gold medal, reflecting his commitment to excellence in academia. Furthermore, Dr. Ajay Kumar's recognition extends beyond academic achievements, as he was awarded the Aaj Ka Karamveer International Award on 17th October 2021, which reflects his dedication to making meaningful contributions to society. With his expertise in religious studies, linguistic analysis, and the exploration of ancient civilizations, Dr. Kumar is well-suited to undertake the project "Abhinavagupta Institute of Advanced Studies" His experience in managing ongoing major projects funded by esteemed organizations such as ICSSR and ICPR showcases his ability to lead and execute research initiatives effectively. Dr. Kumar's proven track record in academia, combined with his passion for promoting and preserving cultural and philosophical heritage, makes him a competent and valuable asset for the proposed project. His multidisciplinary approach and research acumen will undoubtedly contribute to the successful establishment and development of the institute, furthering the exploration and dissemination of knowledge on Kashmir Saivism Academic Qualification: Ph.D., M.Phil., M.A. in Buddhist Studies, M.A. in Sanskrit Literature, M.A. in Mass Communication Work Experience: 13 Years ·Assistant Professor in Centre for Comparative Religions and Civilization, Central University of Jammu from 19.07.2016 to till date ·Assistant Professor in Sanskrit Buddhist Philosophy from 28.03.2016 to 18.07.2016 at Central Institute of Buddhist Studies, Leh ·Development Officer of Pali – Prakrit Scheme from 22.11.2013 to 27.03.2016 at Central Sanskrit University ·JRF of Pali – Prakrit Scheme from 22.02.2010 to 21.02.2013 at Central Sanskrit University Professional Recognition /Award/Prize/Certificate: ·Aaj Ka Karamveer International Award on 17.10.2021 ·Gold Medal in M.Phil. ·Award of USD 1000 for Best paper at Hongkong Peer Reviewed Publications: 27 Details of Patents: Nil Books/Report/Chapters/General articles: ·02 Books ·10 Chapters ·5 General articles Ongoing/Completed Projects: ·Ongoing Projects- 02 Major from ICSSR and ICPR ·Completed Projects – 01 major project from ICPR on Ubiquity of Ancient Civilization in the Linguistic Contents of Kashmiri Realities Correspondence address: Centre for Comparative Religions and Civilizations, Central University of Jammu, Rahya Suchani (Bagla), District-Samba _Jammu (Jammu & Kashmir)- 181143 Email: aksingh83@cujammu.ac.in Contact numbers: 9313971392 / 9797571392 Institution: Centre for Comparative Religions and Civilizations, Central University of Jammu