KNOWLEDGE TRADITION OF

GLORIOUS BHARAT
The knowledge traditions of Glorious Bharat (India) have
a rich and diverse history that spans several millennia.
These traditions encompass various fields of knowledge,
including philosophy, science, mathematics, medicine,
arts, literature, and spirituality. Here are some of the
prominent knowledge traditions of Glorious Bharat:

Hindu Philosophical Systems: Bharat has given rise to

several philosophical systems, each offering unique
perspectives on the nature of reality, self, and existence.
Six orthodox schools of Hindu philosophy, known as the
"Darshanas," include Nyaya, Vaisheshika, Samkhya, Yoga,
Mimamsa, and Vedanta. These schools delve into various
aspects of metaphysics, epistemology, and ethics.
Philosophical Texts
Indian philosophy, or Darshana Shastra, forms a significant
part of Bharatiya Vangmay. The six orthodox schools
(Astika) are:
1. Nyaya: The school of logic and epistemology. (the theory
of knowledge, especially with regard to its methods,
validity, and scope, and the distinction between justified
belief and opinion.)
2. Vaisheshika: The school of atomism (a natural
philosophy proposing that the physical universe is
composed of fundamental indivisible components known
as atoms.) and metaphysics. (The area of philosophy that
deals with the nature of existence, truth and knowledge)
3. Sankhya(Samkhya): The enumerationist school that
classifies all phenomena. (Qualities-Satva, Rajas, Tamas)
4. Yoga: The school focusing on meditation, discipline,
and the attainment of spiritual goals.
5. Purva Mimamsa: The school emphasizing the
performance of Vedic rituals.
6. Uttara Mimamsa (Vedanta): The school exploring the
philosophical teachings of the Upanishads and Vedas.

Spiritual Traditions: Bharat has been the birthplace of

several spiritual traditions, including Hinduism,
Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism. Each of these
traditions has its unique philosophical and spiritual
teachings, contributing to the diversity of spiritual
practices in India.
Heterodox Philosophies
In addition to the orthodox schools, there are heterodox
(Nastika) philosophies, which do not accept the
authority of the Vedas:
1. Charvaka: A materialistic and skeptical philosophy
that emphasizes direct perception and rejects the
supernatural.
2. Jainism: Founded by Mahavira, Jainism teaches non-
violence (Ahimsa) and the multiplicity of viewpoints for
the ultimate truth. (Anekantavada).
3. Buddhism: Founded by Siddhartha Gautama (the
Buddha), Buddhism emphasizes the Four Noble Truths
and the Eightfold Path to achieve liberation from
suffering.
Ayurveda:
The traditional system of medicine that has been
transmitted orally through generations before being
documented in texts like the Charaka Samhita and
Sushruta Samhita. Ayurveda is a treatment method of
the gods, which was given to great scholars on earth for
the welfare of humans. Ashwinikumar is considered
the first scholar of Ayurveda, who performed a
miraculous surgery by joining the head of a goat to the
body of a child. It is said that Ashwinikumar gave this
knowledge to Indra, and Indra gave it to Dhanvantari.
Famous scholars of Ayurveda include Ashwinikumar,
Dhanvantari, Kashiraj Divodas, Nakul, Sahadev,
Chyavan, Janak, Pail, Agastya, Sushruta, and Charak.
This ancient system of medicine emphasizes a holistic
approach to health, focusing on the balance of mind, body,
and spirit. Unlike many Western medical practices that
often treat symptoms in isolation, Ayurveda seeks to
address the root cause of ailments. It emphasizes a holistic
approach to health, focusing on balancing the three doshas
(Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) to maintain well-being. Ayurveda
encompasses herbal medicine, diet, yoga, and various
therapeutic practices.

Mathematics and Astronomy: India made significant

contributions to mathematics and astronomy. The concept
of zero and the decimal system, which are fundamental to
modern mathematics, were developed in India.
Ancient Indian mathematicians like Aryabhata and
Brahmagupta made noteworthy contributions to algebra,
trigonometry, and number theory. In astronomy, India's
knowledge of celestial movements was advanced,
leading to the creation of precise calendars and
observatories.

Yoga and Meditation: India is renowned for its tradition

of yoga and meditation. Yoga, a system of physical,
mental, and spiritual practices, aims to achieve harmony
between body and mind. Meditation, as practiced in
various forms, is a key component of yoga and serves as
a tool for self-realization and inner peace.
Through the eight limbs of yoga, one can achieve
physical and mental health, as well as cope with any
adverse and favourable situations in life and attain
liberation. Maharshi Patanjali, the Father of Yoga, was
the first yogi to truly understand and explain the
meaning of Yoga and the true purpose behind it, in his
Yoga Sutras. This was called Raja Yoga. The first
commentary on the Yoga Sutras by Veda Vyasa was
written in the classical period.
Classical Arts and Literature: Bharat has a rich heritage of
classical arts and literature. Indian classical dance forms,
such as Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Odissi, Manipuri, and
others, are known for their intricate footwork, gestures,
and expressive storytelling. Classical music, with its various
ragas and talas, has a profound impact on the emotions of
the audience. Indian literature, encompassing ancient epics
like Ramayana and Mahabharata, as well as classical works
of poets and writers, reflects the country's deep cultural
and moral values.
Sangeetshastra (Music): Treatises such as Bharata’s
"Natyashastra" encompass the theory and practice of
music, dance, and drama.
Songs and Music
- Bhajans and Kirtans: Devotional songs that are part of
the oral tradition, sung in praise of deities. They are a vital
part of community gatherings and religious ceremonies.
Lok Geet: Folk songs that reflect the life, culture, and
emotions of the common people, often associated with
specific regions and communities.
Folk Dramas: Performances like Jatra in Bengal, Nautanki
in North India, and Yakshagana in Karnataka blend
storytelling, music, and dance, preserving cultural
narratives and values.
Indian literature, from the Vedas to classical works like the
Mahabharata, Ramayana, and the poetry of Kalidasa,
offers timeless wisdom and artistic excellence.
Guru-Shishya Parampara: The knowledge traditions of
Bharat are often passed down through the guru-shishya
parampara, an ancient system of education where
knowledge is transmitted from a guru (teacher) to a
shishya (student) through personal guidance and
discipleship.

Literature and Languages: India's literary heritage is

extensive, with classical works in Sanskrit, Pali, Prakrit,
Tamil, and other languages. The vast literary corpus
includes religious scriptures, epics, poetry, plays, and
philosophical treatises.
Classical Literature - classical Sanskrit literature is rich with
epic poetry, drama, and prose. The two greatest epics of
India are:
1. Mahabharata: Attributed to the sage Vyasa, the
Mahabharata is the longest epic poem in the world,
consisting of over 100,000 verses. It narrates the story of
the Kurukshetra War and the fate of the Kaurava and
Pandava princes. Embedded within it is the Bhagavad
Gita, a philosophical dialogue between Prince Arjuna and
the god Krishna.
2. Ramayana: Composed by the sage Valmiki, the
Ramayana consists of 24,000 verses. It recounts the life
and adventures of Rama, his wife Sita, and his loyal
companion Hanuman. The Ramayana is not just a story
but a guide to righteous living.
Apart from these epics, classical Sanskrit literature
includes works by renowned poets and playwrights
such as Kalidasa, whose plays like "Shakuntala" and
poems like "Meghaduta" are celebrated for their lyrical
beauty and emotional depth.

These knowledge traditions of Glorious Bharat have left

an indelible mark on the world's intellectual, spiritual,
and cultural heritage. They continue to influence
modern thought and inspire people globally to seek
knowledge, wisdom, and a deeper understanding of life
and existence.