Mentor

Ancient Gurukul & Modern Education:

It is very well said by Nelson Mandela that, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” Education is the most integral aspect of any civilization and has adapted itself to the changing needs of the time.

Since ancient times, India has always been known for its rich tradition in the area of learning and education.

The Gurukul education system was prevalent in ancient times. Students used to live in the Gurukul, which was the home of Acharya (teacher) and was the centre of learning. They were taught various subjects along with skills to live a cultured and disciplined life. Students didn’t pay any fees, however, they had to offer Guru Dakshina which was a token of respect paid to the teacher.

The Gurukul education system has inspired the world with its unique methodology and helped the students create a life of their own and sustain themselves through the hardships of life.

●  They were taught to follow the principle of simple living and high thinking which is a great lesson for life.

●  The Gurukul followed strict and rigid rules like waking up early in the morning, Gangasnaan, chanting of mantras etc., which made students more disciplined and cultured.

●  The students used to live together in natural surroundings which brought a sense of brotherhood, humanity, love and discipline among them.

●  They were taught various subjects like mathematics, language and science through self-learning, group discussions and practical implementation.

●  They also focused on developing intelligence and critical thinking through arts, sports, crafts, singing etc.

● Spiritual awakening activities like yoga, meditation and mantra chanting were also included to generate peace and positivity.

●  Students needed to do their daily chores to impart practical skills to them.

The present education system has become more commercial rather than an institutional concept. Present day curriculums are focusing more on academic knowledge, other skills and physical activities are being neglected. The ancient learning system believed in holistic development, personal growth, spiritual awakening, self-control, discipline, awareness about nature and society.

Let’s learn about the requirement of the ancient education system in the present education system:

●  The ancient education system believed in focusing more on practical knowledge instead of bookish knowledge and cramming.

●  Teaching students in the area of mindfulness and spiritual awareness to make them better individuals.

●  In a rank based system, the focus is mainly on academic performance which creates animosity among the peers. The over-ambitious parents also judge by the same and this creates pressure and fierce competition among students. Instead, the school must focus on a value-based system where the child can excel in their areas of interest and build a good character.

●   The teacher and student should have a friendly relation and respect. The child should be able to feel secure and have trust in their caregiver. 

●  The students should be taught an ideology of balance so that they make informed decisions about various things like work, food, fitness etc.

By: Sakshi Bisht | Life Within
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