Bharatiya Knowledge Systems (BKS) – Detailed Notes
UNIT 1: Bharatiya Knowledge Systems and Tradition
Introduction to BKS
Bharatiya Knowledge System (BKS) is holistic in nature, covering not just material
sciences but also spiritual, ethical, and cultural wisdom. Unlike Western knowledge, which
emphasizes classification and material utility, BKS integrates truth-seeking,
consciousness, and practice. Despite centuries of invasions and colonial education
systems that undermined Indian traditions, BKS has survived over 5,000 years through
oral traditions, texts, and living practices.
Self-Revelation of Bharat
Even after repeated invasions and destruction of great universities like Nalanda and
Taxila, Bharat’s knowledge traditions survived because they were rooted in consciousness
(Brahman) and not limited to external structures. Bharat’s unity in diversity is reflected in
shared spiritual, familial, and cultural values. Swami Vivekananda emphasized India’s role
as the cradle of wisdom for humanity.
Knowledge Tradition of Glorious Bharat
Ancient Bharat excelled in multiple fields: - Mathematics: Concept of Zero, Decimal
System (Aryabhata, Brahmagupta) - Astronomy: Aryabhata, Surya Siddhanta - Medicine:
Ayurveda (Charaka, Sushruta – father of surgery) - Metallurgy: Iron Pillar of Delhi,
advanced alloys - Architecture & Vastu Shastra - Arts & Literature: Natya Shastra, Sanskrit
grammar (Panini)
Legacy of Knowledge and Science in Bharat
Maharshi Bhrigu listed 10 sciences, including agriculture, metallurgy, shipbuilding,
architecture, and city planning. He also mentioned 32 knowledge branches and 64 arts
(music, dance, weaponry, gardening, culinary, etc.). The story of Swati Muniraj (who
discovered musical instruments by observing rain falling on lotus petals) shows the spirit of
experimentation. Western science emphasized classification and utility, while Indian
science balanced truth-seeking, consciousness, and application.
Journey of Bharatiya Culture and Civilization
Despite foreign invasions, Indian culture survived due to its foundation in the four
Purusharthas: Dharma, Artha, Kama, and Moksha. Spiritual practices like Yoga, Ayurveda,
and Buddhism spread across the world, influencing global civilization.
Dissemination and Contribution to the World
Sanskrit is regarded as the mother of languages. India contributed nearly 33% of world
GDP two thousand years ago. Wealth taken from India fueled the European industrial
revolution. Thinkers like Mark Twain and Will Durant admired India as the cradle of
civilization. Today, Indian knowledge systems remain vital for sustainability, peace, and
global harmony.
UNIT 2: Jivan Darshan – The Way of Life in BKS
Way of Life in BKS
The Indian way of life, rooted in scriptures and traditions, is holistic—balancing body,
mind, society, and spirit. Core aspects include: - Dharma: Moral duty and righteousness
(Bhagavad Gita’s Nishkama Karma) - Purusharthas: Dharma, Artha, Kama, Moksha -
Yoga: Karma Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, Jnana Yoga, Raja Yoga - Meditation: Realization of
Brahman (Upanishads, Buddha’s teachings) - Renunciation: Detachment for higher truth
(Shankaracharya, Gita) - Karma & Rebirth: Eternal journey of the soul - Social Duties:
Family, rulers, community - Respect for Nature: Rigveda, Atharvaveda hymns
Implicit Concepts in BKS
- Paap–Punya: Sin & virtue (Manusmriti) - Law of Karma: Cause–effect (Bhagavad Gita) -
Birth, Death, Rebirth: Eternal cycle (Upanishads, Gita) - Moksha: Liberation via Karma,
Bhakti, Jnana, Dhyana paths - Sukha: True happiness from within (Yoga Sutras) - Ideal of
Life: Dharma + Self-realization + Knowledge of Brahman
Social Viewpoint in BKS
- Family: Core of society (Ramayana ideals, Grihastha Dharma) - Varna System: Based
on qualities & karma, not birth (Bhagavad Gita 4.13) - Community & Democracy: Sabha
and Samiti in Rigveda - Equality: Bhakti saints (Kabir, Guru Nanak), Gita’s universality -
Care for Nature: Kalidasa’s Shakuntala, Chipko Movement - Dharma & Ethics:
Yudhishthira, Vidura as epitomes - Arts: Natya Shastra, folk traditions (Warli, Madhubani)
Co-existence of Nature and Humans
Nature is sacred in Indian philosophy. Humans are caretakers, not exploiters. Ayurveda
treats the body as a microcosm of the cosmos. Festivals like Makar Sankranti, Pongal, and
Navaratri celebrate nature’s role. Ahimsa extends to all living beings, promoting
vegetarianism and wildlife protection.
Value of Harmonious Existence – Ritam
Ritam represents cosmic and moral order, ensuring harmony in the universe. While Satya
means absolute truth, Ritam is living truth, or alignment with universal law. Vedic rituals
align humans with Ritam, promoting cosmic balance.
Manifold Paths of Upasana
BKS provides multiple spiritual paths: - Jnana Marg: Path of wisdom and inquiry - Karma
Marg: Selfless duty - Bhakti Marg: Devotion and surrender - Raja Yoga: Meditation and
self-control - Tantra Marg: Rituals and energy balance - Hatha Yoga: Physical and mental
discipline
Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam
From the Maha Upanishad: “The world is one family.” Modern translation: “One Earth, One
Family, One Future.” This principle emphasizes global unity, brotherhood, compassion,
and sustainable peace. Adopted as the theme of India’s G20 Summit.
The Four Purusharthas
1. Dharma: Truth, ethics, righteousness (foundation for all others) 2. Artha: Wealth,
security, prosperity, guided by Dharma 3. Kama: Pleasure, art, beauty, love—when
aligned with Dharma 4. Moksha: Liberation, realization of Brahman, freedom from rebirth
