What is the Indian Knowledge System (IKS )? The Indian knowledge system is a term used to refer to the intellectual and philosophical traditions of India, which have a long and rich history dating back to ancient times.
Guru- Shishya Parampara The guru- shishya parampara , or the tradition of teacher-student relationships, is a critical aspect of Bharatiya knowledge systems. It involves the passing down of knowledge, wisdom, and skills from a guru (teacher) to a shishya (student) through personal interaction and discipleship.
Ancient Roots Bharatiya knowledge systems have ancient roots dating back to: - Indus Valley Civilization (around 3300–1300 BCE) - Vedic period (around 1500–500 BCE)- The four Vedas - Rigveda , Samaveda , Yajurveda , and Atharvaveda - contain hymns, rituals, and philosophical discussions
Rituals & scriptures
6 systems of Indian Philosophy: DARSHANAS a. Nyaya : Focuses on logical reasoning and analysis. b. Vaisheshika (unique): Deals with atomism and metaphysics. c. Sam(n) khya (number): Explores the duality of purusha (consciousness) and prakriti (matter). d. Yoga : Emphasizes spiritual practices and self-realization. e. Mimamsa (interpretation): Concentrates on rituals and scriptural existence f. Vedanta : Investigates the essence of the Vedas and the nature of reality
Ayurveda Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine that dates back thousands of years. It emphasizes holistic health and well-being through a balance of the three doshas - Vata , Pitta , and Kapha . Ayurveda encompasses various therapies, herbs, and lifestyle recommendations to promote physical, mental, and spiritual health.
Yoga and Meditation It is a practice that aims to unite the mind, body, and spirit promoting overall well-being. Various forms of yoga, such as Hatha , Raja, Bhakti , Jnana , and Karma yoga cater to different aspects of human nature. Meditation is an essential component of yoga, helping individuals achieve mental clarity, inner peace, and spiritual growth.
Indian Arts and Literature Classical dance forms like Bharatanatyam , Kathak , Odissi , and others are deeply rooted in Indian culture and mythology.
Indian classical music , with its intricate ragas and rhythms, is a profound medium for conveying emotions and spirituality. Indian Arts and Literature
Indian literature including the epics Ramayana and Mahabharata, as well as ancient texts like the Upanishads and Puranas , hold great wisdom and moral teachings. Indian Arts and Literature
Vastu Shastra and Jyotish Vastu Shastra is the Indian science of architecture and design aiming to create harmonious living spaces that align with natural forces. Jyotish or Vedic astrology is the study of celestial bodies influence on human lives and destiny.
Dharma and Karma Dharma refers to duty, righteousness, and moral responsibility Karma signifies the law of cause and effect. Together, these principles guide individuals on the path of righteous living and ethical decision-making .
Spiritual Traditions India is home to various spiritual traditions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism among others. Each of these traditions has contributed unique philosophical perspectives and practices that have shaped the cultural landscape of India.
Modern Relevance Bharatiya knowledge systems continue to influence modern thought in India and beyond. Scholars, researchers, and practitioners study and adapt these traditional systems to address contemporary challenges in various fields, including philosophy, science, medicine, psychology, and spirituality.
CONCLUSION Bharatiya Knowledge Systems and Traditions are a rich and multifaceted heritage that has evolved over thousands of years. These systems encompass a wide array of philosophical, spiritual, scientific, and artistic knowledge that continues to shape the cultural identity and intellectual discourse of India. By preserving and studying these traditions, people gain valuable insights into human existence, the nature of reality, and the pursuit of harmony and well-being.
Irrigation and Water Management
DAM Kallanai (also known as the Grand Anicut ) is an ancient dam. It is built (in running water) across the Kaveri river flowing from Tiruchirapalli District to Thanjavur district, Tamil Nadu, India. The dam was originally constructed during the reign of Chola king Karikalan in c.150 CE. It is the fourth oldest water diversion or water-regulator structures in the world and the oldest in India that is still in use. Because of its spectacular architecture and distributing the water of the delta district flourishing agriculture , it is one of the prime tourist spots in Tamil Nadu .
STEPWELL
Agrasen Ki Baoli in New Delhi, rebuilt in the 14th century
Chand Baori , in the village of Abhaneri near Bandikui . Rajasthan is one of the deepest and largest stepwells in India
Kailasa Temple, Ellora Largest of the rock-cut temples at the Ellora Caves in Maharashtra India . S culpted from a single rock.
BOOK
Importance of Literature T he meaning of ‘literature’ for our present purpose has to be extended to mean ‘composition’ to include the works composed and transmitted orally from generation to generation.
Cāṇakya , in his Arthaśāstra , classifies knowledge that one needs to know into four types: • ānvīkṣikī – used in the general sense of (contemporary) Science , encompassing logic and philosophy • trayī – used to refer to traditional knowledge, to the Vedas in particular • vārttā – used to represent wealth creation (agriculture and commerce) • daṇḍanīti – used to represent politics and public administration