Rediscovering Indian Knowledge: A Cultural and Educational Exploration through the Works of Śrī Dharampal
This course will delve into the contribution of Śrī Dharampal, a distinguished Indian scholar whose research uncovered the rich educational systems and traditions of pre-colonial India, and rediscover Indian knowledge through his writings.
Overview
Contents
Day 1
Introduction to Dharampal Ji's Work and Contextualizing "The Beautiful Tree" :
Overview of Dharampal ji's background and contributions Understanding the historical context of indigenous Indian education in the eighteenth century
Day 2
Structure and Practices of Indigenous Indian Education :
Exploring the traditional education systems in the eighteenth century Discussion on the societal and cultural foundations of indigenous education
Day 3
Challenges and Resilience in Indigenous Education :
Analyzing the challenges faced by indigenous education Examining the resilience and adaptability of the traditional educational systems
Day 4
Contemporary Relevance of "The Beautiful Tree" :
Discussing the implications of Dharampal ji's findings on modern education Exploring how traditional educational principles can inform current educational practices
Day 5
Case Studies and Reflections :
Presenting case studies illustrating the application of indigenous educational principles Reflecting on the potential integration of traditional elements into contemporary education systems
Day 6
Indian Science and Technology in the Eighteenth Century :
Understanding Dharampal Ji's exploration of science and technology in historical India Analysing the impact of indigenous knowledge on scientific advancements
Day 7
Indian Science and Technology in the Eighteenth Century :
Understanding Dharampal Ji's exploration of science and technology in historical India Analysing the impact of indigenous knowledge on scientific advancements
Day 8
Civil Disobedience in Indian Tradition :
Examining Dharampal ji's perspective on civil disobedience in the Indian context Reflecting on the Cultural and historical roots of Civil Disobedience in India
Day 9
Civil Disobedience in Indian Tradition :
Examining Dharampal ji's perspective on civil disobedience in the Indian context Reflecting on the Cultural and historical roots of Civil Disobedience in India
Day 10
Panchayati Raj and India’s Polity :
Exploring Dharampal ji's insights into the traditional Panchayat Raj system Discussing the relevance of Panchayat Raj in contemporary Indian polity
Day 11
Panchayati Raj and India’s Polity :
Exploring Dharampal ji's insights into the traditional Panchayat Raj system Discussing the relevance of Panchayat Raj in contemporary Indian polity
Day 12
Essays on Tradition, Recovery, and Freedom :
Analyzing key essays addressing the themes of tradition, recovery, and freedom Discussing the relevance of these themes in the context of modern India
Day 13
Essays on Tradition, Recovery, and Freedom :
Analyzing key essays addressing the themes of tradition, recovery, and freedom Discussing the relevance of these themes in the context of modern India
Day 14
Bhāratīya Citta, Manas va Kalā / Bhārat kā Svadharma (Hindi) :
Understanding the essence of Dharampal ji's writings in Hindi Exploring the cultural and philosophical aspects highlighted in these works
Day 15
Bhāratīya Citta, Manas va Kalā / Bhārat kā Svadharma (Hindi) :
Understanding the essence of Dharampal ji's writings in Hindi Exploring the cultural and philosophical aspects highlighted in these works
Session Recordings

Day 1
Introduction to Dharampal Ji's Work and Contextualizing "The Beautiful Tree"

Day 2
Structure and Practices of Indigenous Indian Education

Day 3
Challenges and Resilience in Indigenous Education

Day 4
Contemporary Relevance of "The Beautiful Tree"

Day 5
Case Studies and Reflections

Day 6
Indian Science and Technology in the Eighteenth Century

Day 7
Indian Science and Technology in the Eighteenth Century

Day 8
Civil Disobedience in Indian Tradition

Day 9
Civil Disobedience in Indian Tradition

Day 10
Panchayati Raj and India’s Polity

Day 11
Panchayati Raj and India’s Polity

Day 12
Essays on Tradition, Recovery, and Freedom

Day 13
Essays on Tradition, Recovery, and Freedom

Day 14
Bhāratīya Citta, Manas va Kalā / Bhārat kā Svadharma (Hindi)

Day 15
Bhāratīya Citta, Manas va Kalā / Bhārat kā Svadharma (Hindi)
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Key Takeaways
Relevance:
The course will stress the relevance of Dharampal Ji’s ideas and work today, in his opposition to many of the dystopian aspects of existence that are being pushed currently.
Svayambodha:
Śrī Dharampal's thought will be discussed in the context of contemporary ‘post-liberal’ attempts to rethink community, family, and tradition.
Contextualize:
While the focus will be on Śrī Dharampal’s work, the course will also discuss thoughts and ideas propagated by other scholars such as Ivan Illich, Coomaraswamy, SN Balagangadhara, Ashish Nandy, and others.
Who is this course for?
- This course is ideal for: - Academics, researchers, and students in international relations and public policy seeking deeper insights into global governance. - Government officials and policymakers navigating and shaping policies influenced by international agencies. - NGO and civil society members advocating within the global governance framework. - Traditional knowledge bearers and practitioners safeguarding heritage against supranational influences. - Corporate and business leaders understanding international trade and regulation impacts. - Journalists and media professionals reporting on global governance dynamics. - Interested citizens eager to comprehend the nuances and implications of global governance on national sovereignty.
Know your Instructor

Anurag Shukla
Anurag is a doctoral student at the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad. He is a recipient of prestigious fellowships such as JPAL and Star Scholars’ Program. His research interests include the discourse technology in education, history of education, decolonizing education, arts and culture, and the civilizational heritage of India.
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