Human life has changed tremendously over the decades and is undeniably on a fast track to future. It is perhaps only natural to feel disoriented and unanchored when life goes on at a blinding pace. Whereas once man could afford to pause and think, new lifestyles seem to demand non-stop movement ahead, and this has necessitated a new skill set for survival.
The concept of life skills has gained prominence in recent times on account of the fact that the young generation of the world over seems to be struggling to cope with the challenges and demands of today. From academics and extra-curricular talents to managing relationships or making life choices, everything seems to be a task nowadays irrespective of age. This has led to a scenario where an individual now has to be taught how to live. In other words, what was once acquired unconsciously now requires conscious training. Consequently, there have been moves to effect required changes in pedagogy so that education could go beyond academics in order to equip an individual to deal with the biggest challenge called life. Contemporary education seems too focused on academic excellence and scoring good grades with scant attention paid to non-academic but crucial aspects of personality. This justifies the present demand for radical changes in education system.
Education system in India has a long tradition and is unique in many ways. The curricular set up in the ancient gurukul system provided a truly holistic education by catering to every aspect of personality development. Hence, a student graduating out of the gurukul emerged as a mature, skilled and competent person, capable of meeting all the challenges of life. With Indian Knowledge System (IKS) and Indian Knowledge Tradition (IKT) garnering academic attention, there has been renewed interest in Indian ways and philosophy of life.
The Bhagavad Gita is one of the core documents of Indian Knowledge System. Already celebrated for its deep insights into corporate management, a careful study of the text proves that it is a treasure trove of life management in general. The Gitopadesha was given at a time when the bravest warrior Arjuna was mired in personal crisis driven by self-doubt. Lord Krishna, as his friend, philosopher and guide, leads him through the conundrum called life, explaining universal truths and emphasising the need and significance of doing one's duty without expecting rewards. While this is the central philosophy of The Gita, there are several other words of wisdom on life skills scattered across the 18 chapters.
This book studies The Gita from the perspective of education, especially life skills education. It offers a selection of verses that clearly incorporate the various life skills along with their interpretation. It is intended to serve as a handbook or ready reckoner not only by educators but by laymen as well.
This work is also a sincere attempt to invite more attention on Indian traditions of life and education. There is no need to go in search of inspiration and motivation when there is plenty of it within our own tradition. The Gita offers solutions for any challenge, any crisis an individual may face, be it personal or professional, a fact that has been endorsed by many great philosophers across the world. It is hoped that this book would enable the readers to realise their true potential and to lead a happy and fulfilling life, understanding that setbacks or failures are only short lessons in dealing with life.
Vedas (1182)
Upanishads (493)
Puranas (624)
Ramayana (741)
Mahabharata (354)
Dharmasastras (165)
Goddess (496)
Bhakti (242)
Saints (1503)
Gods (1290)
Shiva (370)
Journal (187)
Fiction (60)
Vedanta (362)
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