The Mahabharata as a Pedagogical Text: The Gurukul System, Experiential Learning, and their significance in the 21st century education

Abstract

The Indian old epic of Mahabharata has provided a deep insight into education that goes beyond mythical story to the high level of pedagogical vision that would be applicable in modern education. The key element of this vision is the Gurukul system, which is a residential based, mentor-based system of learning, in which the guru-siṣya (teacher-student) relationship is fundamental, wherein students reside, serve and learn with their guru, integrating both intellectual, ethical and experiential aspects of education. This model put emphasis on immersive learning, moral growth, and self-discipline instead of memorisation of information and was in line with the modern paradigms of experiential and holistic education .

Inscribed in the Mahabharataand other works such as the Bhagavad Gita are Sanskrit shlokas urging the importance of humility towards the teacher and of service and inquiry in the knowledge process, such as Bhagavad Gita (4.34) “Tadviddhi Praanipata Tunena Pariprasnena Sevaya” which means Learn through humility service, through questioning, and through inquiry. The paper uses textual analysis and comparative analysis based on Sanskrit verses, extant studies on Gurukul pedagogy, and contemporary educational theory, to find similarities between ancient pedagogical approaches and current 21st century learning models like personalized mentoring, moral education, and learning by experience. The paper notes that a combination of these classical pedagogical concepts in the contemporary curriculum can enhance learning experiences, character education, and higher learning outcomes.