As the currents of globalization continue to sweep us in the 21st century, knowledge systems inspired by Indian civilization have a great deal to contribute globally. Although Yoga is now practiced worldwide, academic study of Yoga Shastra and many other Indian knowledge systems of health, arts, linguistics, classics, mathematics, sciences, philosophies, and other disciplines are waiting to be explored.  It is vitally important to develop new frameworks, categories, and strategies to study Indian civilization from several disciplines, including a religious or philosophical lens. The centre will be a meeting place for Indian and diverse international perspectives in the spirit of Anekāntavāda. We will strive to integrate the classical texts with contemporary religious studies, politics, economics, environmental studies, gender studies, psychology, health sciences, and more.

Just as the European renaissance was based on the rediscovery of Greek classics in the fifteenth century, a global renaissance can occur based on academia's "discovery" of Asian intellectual traditions, many of which are universally applicable. For example, the idea of a global family was mentioned in many Sanskrit texts; the average lifespan of 100 years of productive and healthy life was also described. The purpose of a multifaceted education system incorporating various sciences and arts was also mentioned (this matches well with the ideas of Multiple Intelligence and T-Shaped Professionals). Gandhi's life, ecological teachings, and impact on Civil Rights Movements in America and elsewhere need to be highlighted. India, as the most vibrant and largest democracy in the world, needs to be studied thoroughly. Our students deserve to learn from one of the oldest surviving civilizations, that is India.

The India Centre’s logo, the banyan tree, powerfully symbolizes our unwavering commitment to creatively engaging with Indian knowledge systems. The banyan, or nyagrodha, holds profound significance in many Indian traditions. As it expands outward and ages, it remains youthful yet deeply connected to its ancient roots. Its ever-growing branches and grounded roots represent continuous growth, free from stagnation.

The banyan’s vast canopy invites diverse perspectives on humanity’s most profound questions, with each root that touches the ground giving birth to new traditions. This reflects the core ethos of the India Centre: we are deeply rooted in Indian knowledge systems yet remain unbounded by their limitations.

We recognize that Indian knowledge is inherently pluralistic, unable to be distilled into a linear history or singular interpretation. We believe these systems are living, constantly evolving, and transforming—just as each root connects to the earth in its own way, each inquiry brings fresh insights.

Our belief in the dynamic and living nature of Indian knowledge systems fills us with boundless optimism and hope. We see endless possibilities emerging from productive engagement, and under the expansive canopy of the India Centre, there is space for a rich diversity of perspectives and approaches.