How Ancient Hindu Philosophy is Making Its Way into Classrooms Across India

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India's formal education system has seen a significant shift towards integrating ancient Hindu concepts and philosophies. This change blurs the distinction between religious beliefs and the established narratives of history and science. A prime example of this trend is the incorporation of the Sanskriti Bodhmala books into the curriculum.

Published by Vidya Bharati, the educational arm of the far-right Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), these books are now mandatory reading for students from classes four to 12 in RSS-run schools. Among their claims are that the Vedic-era philosopher Kanada was the world's first atomic scientist and that ancient Indian physician Sushruta was the pioneer of plastic surgery.

The inclusion of these claims in the curriculum of state-run schools as well has sparked a wave of criticism. Observers argue that the Modi government is leveraging the education system to shape the perspectives of young minds, especially those who will be eligible to vote in the upcoming national elections. However, this move has not been without its detractors. Historians, scientists, and critics have accused the government of modifying school syllabi to promote a Hindu nationalist agenda. They contend that the presentation of history in the Sanskriti Bodhmala textbooks is biased, discouraging critical thinking about the past and making unverified scientific claims.

This educational shift is seen by many as part of a broader "saffronisation" agenda pursued by the Modi administration and its affiliates. Vidya Bharati Sanskriti Shiksha Sansthan, the publisher of the Sanskriti Bodhmala books, has had significant influence in shaping education policy in India. Its former president was a member of the steering committee for the government's National Curriculum Framework. Furthermore, Vidya Bharati officials have played roles in various committees and task forces aimed at implementing the National Education Policy (NEP).

Text Books beyond the curriculum

The influence of Vidya Bharati extends beyond curriculum development. The organization has been a key player in the preparation of education policies for nearly half a decade. Its school principals and office bearers have been involved in developing national professional standards for teachers, and its representatives have contributed to state task forces for NEP implementation. This is not the first attempt to modify the Indian school curriculum in line with a particular ideology. Similar efforts were made between 1999 and 2004 during the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) tenure, with Dinanath Batra, a former Vidya Bharati general secretary, playing a pivotal role.

The overarching strategy behind Vidya Bharati schools, according to journalist Nilanjan Mukhopadhyay, is to establish Hindu hegemony across different societal facets, including education. The aim is to promote the notion of ancient Hindu superiority and portray Hindu India as a civilization undermined by centuries of Muslim and Christian rule. Under Modi's rule, Hindu nationalists see an opportunity to reclaim this perceived ancient glory. However, there's growing concern that this educational approach could foster resentment towards Muslims and Christians among young Hindus, potentially exacerbating societal divisions and undermining religious harmony.

In summary, the involvement of Vidya Bharati in shaping India's education policy highlights the growing influence of Hindu nationalism in schools. This trend raises significant concerns about its potential effects on social cohesion and the country's secular fabric.