Dr Manisha Puranik 1

Summary

This video introduces the Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) course, exploring the rich and diverse knowledge accumulated in India through arts, literature, architecture, and traditional practices. Dr. Manisha Puranik discusses the evolution of Indian knowledge from ancient times, emphasizing its continuous tradition spanning over 5,000 years. The course covers various sources of knowledge, including texts in Sanskrit, Prakrit, and regional languages, alongside oral traditions. It highlights significant works like the Vedas, Upanishads, and Arthashastra, and explains how traditional knowledge can inspire modern innovation and contribute to economic progress. The course aims to bridge ancient wisdom with contemporary education.

Takeaways

• 😀 Indian Knowledge System (IKS) has been a continuous tradition spanning thousands of years, with its roots in ancient India, including present-day Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, Nepal, and Myanmar.
• 😀 IKS was transmitted orally through generations, primarily via the Guru-Shishya (teacher-student) tradition, emphasizing one-on-one learning.
• 😀 The Indian civilization's continuous presence and preservation of knowledge over 5000-6000 years is unique compared to other ancient civilizations.
• 😀 IKS is a collection of knowledge from multiple fields including arts, architecture, literature, medicine, and astronomy, passed down in regional languages like Sanskrit, Prakrit, Pali, and others.
• 😀 The knowledge contained in Indian literature, such as the Vedas, Puranas, and other classical texts, provides profound insights into various disciplines like philosophy, science, and law.
• 😀 The concept of 14 Vidyas (sources of knowledge) and 64 Kalas (arts and skills) plays a pivotal role in understanding the broad spectrum of knowledge in ancient India.
• 😀 The Vedas, especially the Rigveda, Yajurveda, Samaveda, and Atharvaveda, serve as the foundation of Indian knowledge, influencing various fields from politics to arts.
• 😀 The 'Arthashastra,' authored by Chanakya (also known as Vishnugupta), is a key ancient text that covers political science, economics, military strategy, and governance.
• 😀 The application of IKS today is highly relevant, as it can inspire modern innovations and contribute to economic progress, particularly through the protection and patenting of traditional knowledge.
• 😀 The role of traditional knowledge in India's development should not be overlooked, and integrating it with modern education can lead to a more balanced approach to learning and innovation.

Q & A

What is the Indian Knowledge System (IKS)?

The Indian Knowledge System (IKS) refers to the body of knowledge that has been accumulated over thousands of years in India, encompassing a wide range of fields such as arts, literature, architecture, science, and traditional practices. This knowledge was traditionally transmitted orally and through texts in regional languages like Sanskrit, Prakrit, and others.

How was knowledge traditionally transmitted in India?

In India, knowledge was traditionally transmitted through the 'Guru-Shishya' (teacher-student) tradition. This method involved one-on-one teaching, where knowledge was passed down orally from teacher to student. In addition, knowledge was also shared within families, especially in fields like handicrafts and handlooms.

What are the different periods of Indian history mentioned in the script?

The script divides Indian history into three main periods: the Ancient period (from 2500 BCE to around 1200 CE), the Medieval period (from the 12th to the 18th century), and the Modern period (from the 18th century to the present day).

What is the significance of the 'Akhand Bharat' concept in relation to Indian Knowledge Systems?

The 'Akhand Bharat' concept refers to the unified geographical region that once comprised the areas of present-day Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, Nepal, and Bangladesh. The knowledge originating from this vast region is collectively referred to as Indian Knowledge, representing the cultural and intellectual heritage of the entire region, not just modern India.

What is the role of texts in the Indian Knowledge System?

Texts play a crucial role in the Indian Knowledge System, providing foundational sources of knowledge. These include the Vedas, Upanishads, Puranas, and other classical texts, which contain knowledge on various subjects such as philosophy, science, art, and social organization.

How do regional languages contribute to Indian Knowledge Systems?

Regional languages in India, such as Marathi, Gujarati, Tamil, Kannada, and others, also have rich traditions of knowledge. The knowledge in these languages, along with Sanskrit, has been passed down through generations and contributes to the overall understanding of Indian Knowledge Systems.

What are the '14 Vidyas' and their importance in the context of Indian Knowledge Systems?

The '14 Vidyas' are considered the core sources of knowledge in ancient India. These include the four Vedas, Upavedas (like Ayurveda, Gandharvaveda, and Dhanurveda), Vedangas (limbs of the Vedas), and other texts like Puranas, Dharma Shastras, and classical literature. They cover a wide range of subjects from science to ethics and are fundamental to understanding Indian Knowledge Systems.

What is the connection between traditional Indian knowledge and modern education systems?

The traditional Indian knowledge system, based on principles of oral transmission, practical knowledge, and scientific insights, is deeply connected to modern education systems. The knowledge from ancient texts can inspire innovative concepts and solutions to contemporary challenges, especially in fields like medicine, astronomy, and technology.

How do the 64 arts ('Saus Kalas') reflect the diversity of Indian knowledge?

The 64 arts, or 'Saus Kalas', represent various types of traditional skills and knowledge in India, including performing arts, craftsmanship, architecture, and science. These arts are considered essential for understanding the holistic approach to education and culture in ancient India, highlighting a balance between intellectual, artistic, and practical skills.

What is the significance of the 'Arthashastra' in the Indian Knowledge System?

The 'Arthashastra' is a significant text in the Indian Knowledge System, composed by the ancient scholar Kautilya (Chanakya). It covers a wide range of topics, including political science, economics, military strategy, law, and governance. It is a valuable resource for understanding the ancient principles of administration, diplomacy, and statecraft.