202 participants from Trinity Institute of Professional Studies (TIPS), New Delhi took part in a workshop on “Healing yourself through nonviolent communication during the pandemic” organised on May 28, 2021 by Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti that was conducted by Dr. Vedabhyas Kundu, Programme Officer. The programme was moderated by a student of the institute, Ms. Anuksha Tiwari.
Delivering the Webinar lecture, Dr. Vedabhyas Kundu, Programme Officer, Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti (GSDS) discussed the different elements of nonviolent communication and how these could be used in relationship management during these times of lockdown. The session talked about the stress on relationship management and friction in families due to lockdown. It stated Gandhian Pillars of nonviolence- mutual respect, understanding, acceptance, appreciation and compassion. He said, “Communication is a reflection of the inner workings of our mind and we need to cultivate that every time”.
Another aspect discussed in the webinar was self-introspection, that how people are running after the materialistic gains and luxurious life. People should find this crisis as an opportunity to encourage themselves for their intrapersonal communication. They must reinvent themselves and should try to unearth their hidden talents. This is a stage when one must widen their emotional vocabulary. Inappropriate use of language and words can contribute to conflicts and chaos.
In addition, he explained how we can bring non-violent dialogue into our lives. And what are the things that we need to keep in mind during our speech - such as promoting creativity within ourselves, keeping ourselves aware, avoiding prejudice, not being judgmental towards anyone, other's Understanding the problems, these are all the ways through which we can increase non-violent dialogue.
Earlier Dr. Alokparna Das, HOD Mass Communication, TIPS shared the importance of nonviolent communication and understanding the self during her welcome address.
In her address, Dr. Barkha Bahl, Director, TIPS necessitated the need for healing by affirmation, which she described as having positive attitude to think and believe that things are better. She also pointed to the whole idea of greed and reflected on the principles of just and fair society.
The interactive session was also very overwhelming with the participation of students who raised several queries that was satisfactorily answered be Dr. Kundu.