Ancient Education System of India
Exercise Solution
Question 1: Which salient features of the ancient education system of India made it globally renowned?
Answer: The ancient education system focused on all around development of students. Apart from theoretical knowledge, personality development was an important aspect. A student was taught in a way so that he could become an asset for the family and society. These features of the ancient education system of India made it globally renowned.
Question 2: Why do you think students from other countries came to India to study at that time?
Answer: An educational hub is known for its shining alumni. Many great scholars of ancient India made immense contribution in different fields, like political science, architecture, grammar, astrology, mathematics, etc. Some examples are: Panini (Grammar), Aryabhata (Astrology), Kautilya (Political Science), Charaka (Medicine), etc. Hence, students from other countries came to India to study at that time.
Question 3: Why is education considered a way of life?
Answer: Education empowers a person. Education not only gives knowledge about various subjects but also enhances a person’s personality. The ancient education system not only shaped the external personality but also the inner personality of a person. Apart from knowledge, it also focused on discipline. So, education is considered a way of life.
Question 4: What do you understand by holistic education?
Answer: The dictionary meaning of holistic says that part of something is intricately linked to the whole and can be explained by the whole system. Holistic education means looking at the big picture. A mere knowledge of theories is not enough unless it can be meaningfully applied in the real life. Moreover, if an educated person becomes a burden on the society, we cannot consider that person as really educated. Apart from using education for self realization, one needs to think and work towards the good for a society. This is the crux of holistic education.
Question 5: Why do you think Takshashila (तक्षशिला) and Nalanda have been declared heritage sites?
Answer: UNESCO has certain criteria to consider a place as a world heritage site. The place should be a geographical landmark. The place should have cultural and historical significance. All these criteria are fulfilled by Takshashila and Nalanda. Hence, Takshashila and Nalanda have been declared world heritage sites.