What Happens When a Civilisation Forgets?

Date: 11th June 2026

Dear Seekers of Truth,

How should a civilisation remember its past? What happens when historical wounds remain unexplored, difficult questions go unasked and entire chapters of history are forgotten, ignored or left unresolved?

These are not merely questions about the past. They shape how societies understand themselves in the present and how they move forward into the future.

This week, we examine the destruction of one of the greatest centres of learning the world has ever known, continue an important conversation about truth and reconciliation in Bharat, and explore the relationship between religion, power and empire through a compelling new episode of Theopolitica.

Join us as we continue the pursuit of truth, understanding and civilisational renewal.

It Took Six Months to Burn This Ancient Library

“Six months. That’s how long it took to burn Nalanda.”

The destruction of Nalanda was not merely the destruction of a university. It represented the loss of one of the world’s greatest centres of learning, preserving knowledge across philosophy, medicine, mathematics, astronomy and theology.

In this powerful monologue, Pt. Satish K Sharma examines Nalanda not simply as a historical event, but as part of a wider conversation about memory, identity and civilisational continuity.

From Nalanda to Macaulay’s dismissal of native literature, from the Crusades and the Doctrine of Discovery to the Americas, Africa, India and Australia, the monologue traces recurring questions about civilisational memory, power and historical narratives.

The destruction of Nalanda is not merely a story about the past.

It raises important questions about how civilisations remember, record and respond to historical loss.

Questions that remain relevant today.

Introducing DTARC: Why Bharat Needs Truth and Reconciliation

Last week, we introduced the Dharmic Truth and Reconciliation Council (DTARC), a new initiative dedicated to exploring what a truth and reconciliation process could mean for Bharat and the wider Dharmic world.

Around the world, societies emerging from conflict and historical trauma have often discovered the same reality: reconciliation begins with truth.

South Africa recognised this following apartheid. Argentina undertook a national process to investigate the abuses of its military dictatorship and document the experiences of victims.

These societies understood a simple principle: Truth comes first.

Yet Bharat has never undertaken a dedicated truth and reconciliation process to examine many of the historical wounds, civilisational disruptions and unresolved questions that continue to shape our society today.

DTARC seeks to encourage honest inquiry, meaningful dialogue and a deeper understanding of our shared history by bringing together scholars, researchers, faith leaders and community voices.

This is not about reopening wounds. It is about understanding them. Because truth is not the enemy of reconciliation. Truth is its foundation.

We invite you to register your interest in DTARC and be among the first to hear about future events, discussions, research initiatives and opportunities to contribute to this important conversation.

God Was Just an Excuse: How the Church of England Became a Tool of Empire

Was the British Empire spread by faith, or was faith used to serve the empire?

In this compelling new episode of Theopolitica, Pt. Satish K Sharma and Navita Vashisht examine the origins of the Church of England and explore how a church born from political power came to play a central role in Britain’s imperial project.

From Henry VIII’s break with Rome to the expansion of British influence across the globe, the discussion asks uncomfortable but important questions about the relationship between religion, power, wealth and colonial ambition.

Whether you agree, disagree or remain undecided, these are precisely the kinds of conversations that truth and reconciliation require.

As DTARC continues to explore questions of history, memory and reconciliation, conversations such as these remind us that understanding the past is often the first step towards building a better future.

If you would like priority access to attend or contribute to our panels and events, sign up to become a member and stay ahead of the curve.

As the work of DTARC develops, members will be among the first to hear about future events, opportunities and initiatives.

On behalf of the Global Hindu Federation, we invite you to be part of this global Dharma renaissance. Whether through learning, service, or simply showing up, there is a place for you.

Come back, come often, and walk this path with us.

With sincere regards,

Team Global Hindu Federation