Darshak Itihas Nidhi: A Foundation for Studies in History
Darshak Itihas Nidhi (DIN) is a not-for-profit organization based in Baroda, India. Its foundation was inspired by the late Manubhai Pancholi (1914-2001), known by his pen name “Darshak”. Manubhai Pancholi largely contributed, as an eminent educationist and a littérateur, to the Gujarati literature (Padma Bhushan in 1991). His deep knowledge and understanding of history lead him to the writing of several historical novels, including the classic “Socrates”, which inspired three generations of Gujarati readers. He was working on Lincoln and had made plans to write on two urban civilizations – Rome and Greece – when he passed away.
Darshak gave two objectives to the Foundation; one, to promote studies on various facets of Gujarat’s history; and two, to try to create an understanding of history in society.
The foundation encourages publications in the field of history for academics and general public. It also organizes talks and events promoting awareness about history and heritage. Since 2010, DIN engages itself in academic events, organizing series of international Symposia on the maritime history of Gujarat. Each Symposium is followed by the publication of a post-conference volume.
Board Trustees
Hasmukh S. Shah Chairman
Nitin Shukla Promoter of Gujarati Encyclopedia & CEO- Royal Dutch Shell- Gujarat
Prakash N. Shah Political Commentator and Journalist
Makrand Mehta Historian, Prof Emeritus Gujarat University
Pradeep Khandwala Former Director, Indian Institute of Management
Bhagyesh Jha Secretary, Department of Culture- Govt. of Gujarat; Poet
K P Yagnik Former Secretary, Education- Govt. of Gujarat, Literary Aficionado
Nila Shah Secretary
Tridip Suhrid Academician, author and translator
Raghuvir Chaudhary Advisor
Mehboob Desai Professor of History, Bhavnagar University