Indian Knowledge Systems
Concept
● Indian Knowledge systems is a rich treasure of various branches of knowledge. It includes
that information which has been preserved since ages for the application in reality. It is
not only our moral duty to preserve and cherish this extraordinary heritage, but also a
practical need to correlate this knowledge with the current era and apply it wherever
possible.
● We need to attempt to explore the multiple dimensions of these knowledge systems to
understand their significance and validity for our progress.
Sources
IKS information can be gathered through the Textual sources, historical
accounts, archaeological evidence, inscriptions, coins. This presentation
focuses on the texts.
IKS is seen rooted in the ancient texts like the Vedas, Upanishads, Puranas,
and later philosophical treatises on various branches of knowledge. There
are also scientific treatises that explain a particular science with all minute
details. Amongst various sources of IKS, the textual sources play the most
important role.
Classification of the texts
We can broadly classify the texts on IKS in following three categories-
1. Religio-philosophical -
These sources include the texts like Vedas, Upanishads, Puranas, Epics,
Darshana texts that offer different perspectives on metaphysics, epistemology,
ethics, and human nature.
2. Scientific -
Ayurveda, Astronomy, Mathematics, Art and Architecture, Agriculture,
Weather Science are the branches that are covered in this.
3. Cultural and Social -
These are the texts giving information about law and order in society, the moral code of
conduct, the fundamentals that nurture the well-being of the society
Scope of IKS
Spiritual and Philosophical Inquiry
IKS helps one to satisfy the quest about one’s existence, about consciousness and helps
to understand the nature of reality. The texts like Vedas and Upanishads give the
insights that make one think about the life, death and entire being of oneself.
Scientific and Technical Innovation
IKS gives the knowledge preserved through various texts on medicine,
mathematics, chemistry and metallurgy, agriculture and weather science,
physics and astronomy etc. One can try and apply this knowledge wherever
possible and make use of it even today.
Cultural and Artistic Expression-
Through visual arts and performing arts, IKS helps to develop the aesthetic
sense and enables one to understand and appreciate the arts and foster the
creativity of humans
Social and Ethical Guidance
IKS gives guidelines on law and justice, the social framework, governance and ideas to
implement for social harmony.
Relevance of IKS in today’s world
Holistic Health and Well-being
The texts on Ayurveda and Yoga provide the integrated knowledge of physical and
mental health. This knowledge can be and is being utilized in the modern world
and can enhance the effects of contemporary medical practices.
Scientific Insights
The contribution of ancient texts on Mathematics (invention of Zero), architecture
(the skills of constructing temples), Astronomy (predictions and concerned
calculations), Metallurgy (the processes on metals).
Environmental Sustainability
Texts on weather science give multiple predictions of rains. Also Vedas and Upanishads
contain many points that highlight the connection between humans and the environment.
These texts would certainly helpful for ecological balance.
Philosophical and Ethical Guidance
The concepts such Karma, Dharma, Satya help to understand the existential truths
and provide an ethical foundation to one’s living. It will also help to resolve the
interpersonal conflicts and will lead to harmonious life.
Cultural Heritage and Identity
IKS fosters one’s understanding of his own culture, arts and ideas which helps not
only to chrish the richness of these concepts but also helps to fruitful dialogue
with members belonging to different cultures.
Texts on IKS
Veda and Vedanga
● Veda means the divine texts that are full of knowledge. The Vedas deal with topics
such as propitiation of the natural deities, the tradition of sacrifice, ritualistic
processes involved in the sacrifice. Etc. There are total four Vedas-
● Rigveda
● Yajurveda
● Samaveda
● Atharvaveda
● The information such as proportion of sacrificial altar, the prior arrangements for the
sacrifice need detailed knowledge of Geometry.
Ayurveda
● Ayurveda is a part of Atharvaveda
● It is a science that gives information about the anatomy of human body and
preventive as well as curative therapies that were used in ancient India
● It further got developed to the extent of surgeries of complex kind.
● The famous books on Ayurveda are
● Charakasamhita by Charaka
● Sushrutasamhita by Sushruta
● Ashtangahridaya by Vagbhata
Chemistry-
● Uses of various metals such as gold, copper, zinc etc.
● Procedure to make different chemical solutions
● Paper making
● Dying
● Ornaments and cosmetics making
● Perfumes making
● Ink making
● Gunpowder making
Conclusion
In conclusion, Indian Knowledge Systems represent a rich tapestry of wisdom that
spans intellectual, scientific, artistic, and ethical dimensions. Their study and
application not only illuminate India’s historical achievements but also offer
valuable perspectives and solutions to contemporary global challenges.
Thank you!
