India's intellectual heritage is one of the richest and most diverse in the world. It spans thousands of years and includes contributions across a wide range of disciplines philosophy, mathematics, medicine, linguistics, astronomy, arts, architecture, agriculture, governance, and much more. Yet, for a long time, these knowledge systems have remained underexplored or misunderstood, both within India and abroad. This book, "Wisdom of the Ages: Exploring the Foundations of Bhartiya Knowledge System," is an earnest attempt to present the depth and breadth of India's indigenous intellectual traditions in a manner that is accessible, scholarly, and relevant to contemporary education and society.
The genesis of this book lies in a shared conviction among us the authors that the Indian Knowledge System (IKS) is not only a source of cultural pride but also a powerful reservoir of ideas and methodologies that remain deeply relevant today. In an age characterized by rapid technological change, environmental crises, ethical dilemmas in science, and growing mental health challenges, we believe that the wisdom of India's ancient traditions offers enduring insights and sustainable alternatives.
The Indian Knowledge System is not a single body of thought, nor is it limited to religious or spiritual doctrine. It is a holistic framework that encompasses diverse streams of knowledge developed through centuries of critical inquiry, experiential learning, and intergenerational transmission. The rishis, acharyas, scientists, poets, and philosophers of India were not merely visionaries or mystics they were educators, mathematicians, astronomers, grammarians, physicians, and sociologists. Their contributions, codified in Sanskrit, Pali, Prakrit, Tamil, and many other Indian languages, offer a treasure trove for reimagining the future of education, science, and society.
The purpose of this book is to explore the foundational concepts, pedagogical approaches, and epistemological principles that have shaped Indian knowledge systems from antiquity to the present. We aim to bridge the gap between ancient wisdom and contemporary educational practice by presenting the main themes, such as:
Introduction to the Indian Knowledge System: Concepts, Context, and Contemporary Relevance
Traditional Systems of Knowledge Transmission and Education in Ancient India
Frameworks of Knowledge and Indian Epistemological Traditions
The Vedas and Associated Literature: Foundations of Indian Thought
Philosophical Traditions of India: Schools of Thought and Core Concepts
Indian Contributions to Mathematics and Numerics: From Zero to Infinity
Astronomy and Calendrical Sciences in the Indian Knowledge System
Ayurveda, Yoga, and the Science of Wellness in Indian Tradition
Governance, Statecraft, and Political Philosophy in Ancient India
Architecture and Town Planning: Principles from Västu and Silpa Sastra
Aesthetics, Performing Arts, and Visual Culture in the Indian Tradition
Indian Linguistics and Grammar: Structure, Semantics, and Language Evolution
Metallurgy, Crafts, and Indigenous Industry in Pre-Modern India
Traditional Sports, Games, and Physical Culture in Indian Society
Management Principles in the Indian Knowledge System: Ethics and Governance.
Contemporary Integration and the Future of the Indian Knowledge System We have approached these subjects not merely from a historical or cultural perspective, but intending to identify their underlying principles and demonstrate their continued relevance in today's global context. This book also reflects the growing emphasis, as outlined in the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, on integrating IKS into school and higher education curricula. The NEP recognizes that knowledge rooted in the cultural and intellectual traditions of India can enrich the learning process, foster critical thinking, and promote national pride and self-awareness among students.
In writing this book, we were guided by three core intentions:
1. To Educate-We aim to present the Indian Knowledge System in a manner that is academically rigorous yet accessible. The chapters are structured to support interdisciplinary study and classroom discussion, making this work suitable for students, educators, and general readers alike.
2. To Reconnect This book seeks to reconnect modern learners with their intellectual and cultural heritage. We believe that understanding the philosophical and scientific achievements of ancient India can inspire confidence, creativity, and self-directed inquiry.
3. To Inspire Above all, we hope this work encourages readers to see IKS not as a relic of the past but as a living tradition. India's intellectual history is dynamic and evolving. It has adapted through centuries of interaction with other cultures and continues to influence thought across the world. We hope that our readers are inspired to carry forward this tradition in ways that are meaningful to them and relevant to our time.
The structure of the book is thematic rather than chronological. Each chapter focuses on a key area of Indian knowledge and attempts to explain its foundational ideas, historical evolution, applications, and future potential. We have drawn upon a wide range of sources including ancient scriptures, commentaries, recent research papers, and educational policy documents.
While scholarly in content, the language of the book has been kept as lucid as possible to ensure clarity and engagement for all readers.
Hindu (1765)
Philosophers (2327)
Aesthetics (317)
Comparative (66)
Dictionary (12)
Ethics (44)
Language (350)
Logic (80)
Mimamsa (58)
Nyaya (134)
Psychology (497)
Samkhya (60)
Shaivism (66)
Shankaracharya (233)
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