THE LEGACY OF THE GURUKUL: TRACING THE ROOTS OF INDIAN KNOWLEDGE SYSTEMS

Abstract

The Gurukul system represents the foundational educational framework of ancient India, characterized by its holistic approach to intellectual, moral, and spiritual development. Rooted in Vedic traditions, the Gurukul was more than an institution; it was a lived experience that shaped the mind and character of learners through close teacher-student relationships and an integrated life of discipline, service, and study. This chapter traces the historical evolution, pedagogical methods, epistemological foundations, and social impact of the Gurukul system. It critically examines the decline of Gurukuls during colonial rule and the erosion of indigenous knowledge systems in the wake of Western education. Drawing upon the National Education Policy 2020 and contemporary revival efforts, the chapter argues for reimagining Indian education by integrating the strengths of the Gurukul system into modern curricula. This approach seeks to blend tradition with innovation, creating educational experiences that are not only academically rigorous but also value-oriented and culturally rooted.