PEDAGOGY OF DHARMA: REVISITING GURUKULA LEARNING SYSTEMS FOR 21ST CENTURY EDUCATION

Abstract

In the rapidly evolving educational landscape of the 21st century, there is an increasing need to revisit ancient pedagogical models that emphasize holistic development, ethical grounding, and lifelong learning. The Indian Knowledge System (IKS) embodies holistic, value-based learning rooted in Dharma, integrating ethics, spirituality, and knowledge. It emphasizes the Guru–Shishya tradition, experiential learning, and moral development, aligning education with self-realization and societal harmony—core principles that define the 'Pedagogy of Dharma' in the Gurukula system. The system, rooted deeply in the Indian tradition, offers a unique framework of pedagogy centred around the concept of "Dharma"—a principle of righteous living, duty, and moral responsibility. This paper explores the core elements of the Gurukula system, its philosophical foundations in Dharma, and the potential for integrating these principles into modern education. It argues for a re-imagined pedagogy that balances technological advancement with ethical and spiritual education, fostering well-rounded individuals capable of addressing contemporary global challenges.