Dara Shikoh was a child of India: M.J. Akbar

New Delhi, April 27 (IANS) Dara Shikoh, the great grandson of Akbar, was a child of India, Minister of State for External Afffairs M.J. Akbar said here on Thursday.

Inaugurating the "Dara Shikoh: Reclaiming Spiritual Legacy of India" event, organised by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), the minister said: "Dara Shikoh understood the people of India, he went ahead to connect with the local masses. He inspired for translations of Gita and Upanishads in Persian language."

"The whole idea behind the programme was to highlight the efforts contributed by Shikoh to maintain harmony and unity among people. His aim was better coordination between Hindus and Muslims and deepening faith in each other," ICCR President Lokesh Chandra told IANS.

Eminent scholars, academics and historians from seven countries — the US, Iran, Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and India will participate in the two-day conference.

Dara Shikoh was a spiritually and intellectually inspired Mughal prince. In 1655 Shah Jahan declared him the Crown Prince of the Mughal Empire. He was, however, assassinated by his younger brother Muhiuddin (later, Emperor Aurangzeb) in a bitter struggle for the throne.

"Dara Sikoh as a historical entity represents such glorious principles of Indian history, culture and heritage. ICCR is organising an International Conference with participation from more than seven countries as well as Indian historians and intellectuals to discuss and celebrate this conference along with play of Dara Sikoh and an exhibition" shared Amarendra Khatua, Director General ICCR.

On this occasion, a 90-minute play theatrical production directed by Tripurari Sharma, Professor at the National School of Drama, will be staged on Thursday evening.