Padma Shri awardee archaeologist and former Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) Regional Director KK Muhammad has urged the Muslim community to voluntarily take the initiative to hand over the disputed Krishna Janmabhoomi site in Mathura and Gyanvapi site in Varanasi to Hindu society, saying a peaceful resolution to the two issues could help bring closure to the contentious temple-mosque disputes.

The renowned archaeologist made the remarks during a dialogue with spiritual leader and Founder of Darpan Ashram Guruji Nand Kishore at the 51st Upanishad organised by the Darpan Foundation on the theme “Indian Heritage.” The Upanishad was organised at Darpan Ashram, located nearly 100 km away from Bengaluru at Urigam in Krishnagiri District of Tamil Nadu.

A Call for Voluntary Resolution

During the interaction, Muhammad asked whether, after finding peaceful solutions to the Mathura and Kashi issues, the demand for reclamation of other sites should not come to an end.

He said the Muslim community should voluntarily take the initiative to hand over the “places” at Mathura and Kashi to Hindu society.

Responding to the issue, Guruji Nand Kishore said the Mathura and Kashi matters should be resolved now and other competing claims should be left to the wisdom of the next generation.

On AI and the Future of Human Consciousness

The dialogue also focused on the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on society and human heritage. Muhammad raised questions about the future of AI and its implications for the younger generation.

Guruji said young Indians should not fear AI as, unlike human beings, it is neither conscious nor awakened. He said people must continue to develop their consciousness through meditative practices to remain ahead of AI.

If human consciousness continues to evolve, he said, AI could be transformed from a source of fear into an opportunity to help guide humanity towards a more desirable future, away from the conflicts of the present era.

Reflections on Sita’s Exile and Rama’s Maryada

The discussion also examined the episode of Sita’s exile in the Ramayana and the conflict between Lord Rama’s responsibilities as a king and his role as Sita’s husband.

The speakers discussed whether Rama’s maryada remained intact while balancing his obligations towards justice, public welfare and his personal relationship with Sita. Guruji’s response received applause from the gathering.

Strong Participation from Students

A notable feature of the programme was the active participation of female students, who raised more questions than their male counterparts.

Students, faculty members and heads of departments from the Commerce, Computer Science and Arts faculties participated in the event, which was also attended by distinguished guests and media personalities.