Chittaranjan Das and Our Creative Planetary Futures

This book explores the profound legacy of Chitta Ranjan Das (1923-2011), a pioneering Indian thinker, educator, and writer who left an indelible mark on philosophy, literature, and education. As the founder of Jeevana Vidyalaya (School of Life) in 1950s Odisha and a devoted nurturer of integral education movement in Odisha, Das redefined education through integral learning, deeply influenced by the visionary ideals of Tagore, Gandhi, Kristen Kold, Sri Aurobindo and the Mother. This volume brings together a diverse group of international scholars to engage with Das's ideas, placing his work within the broader context of global intellectual discourse. His contributions--ranging from philosophy and culture to literature--continue to inspire fresh perspectives on education and social transformation. Das's translation efforts introduced Odia readers to world literature, including works by Tolstoy, Gandhi, Sri Aurobindo, and Boris Pasternak, bridging cultures and ideas across linguistic boundaries. In an era of increasing interest in diverse global philosophies, this book offers a timely and essential exploration of Das's work, linking his thoughts to the contemporary movement of planetary thinking. With its transdisciplinary approach--interweaving literature, philosophy, and history--this volume is a must-read for scholars, educators, and anyone interested in the evolution of thought beyond conventional borders. I am delighted to see the much-deserved placement of one of my Gurus in the History of Planetary Futures. These contributions in creative theory connect Chittaranjan's most challenging experiments in bonding peace and beauty for all with global possibilities in fundamental transformation. -Manoranjan Mohanty, University of Delhi. Ananta Kumar Giri is the Founding Executive Trustee of Vishwaneedam Center for Asian Blossoming and a former Professor at the Madras Institute of Development Studies, Chennai. Professor Giri is the author, editor, co-editor and translator of more than six dozen books in English and Odia.