Reimagining Indian Knowledge Systems in the Modern Curriculum

Somaiya Vidyavihar University is reimagining indian knowledge systems for the modern curriculum

New Delhi [India], January 13: Indian knowledge systems are increasingly being recognised as essential to building a holistic, research-driven, and culturally rooted education framework. Somaiya Vidyavihar University (SVU) has taken a structured, institution-led approach to this integration by embedding India's philosophical, linguistic, historical, and spiritual traditions into formal academic curricula at undergraduate, postgraduate, diploma, certificate, and doctoral levels.

At the centre of this effort is the K J Somaiya Institute of Dharma Studies, supported by Bharatiya Sanskriti Peetham, the Centre for Buddhist Studies, the Centre for Studies in Jainism, Department of (Ancient History, Culture & Archaeology) and the Centre for Indian Knowledge Systems Research. Together, these institutions offer over 40+ academic programmes, including honours options, in disciplines such as Yogashastra, Buddhist Studies, Hindu Studies, Jain Studies, Ancient Indian History, Culture and Archaeology, and Ancient Languages and Literature. Classical languages, including Sanskrit, Pali, Prakrit, and Tibetan, are taught as living scholarly tools, enabling direct engagement with original texts and traditions.

Somaiya Vidyavihar University's academic model emphasises both depth and application. Programmes integrate the study of classical scriptures, philosophy, archaeology, aesthetics, and ethics with research methodology, fieldwork, internships, and experiential learning. Students participate in heritage tours, archaeological site visits, museum studies, archival training, outreach projects, and yoga-based wellness practices, ensuring that theoretical learning is reinforced through practice. Disciplines such as Yogashastra combine philosophical foundations with anatomy, psychology, therapy, nutrition, and applied yoga sciences.

The university's commitment to Indian Knowledge Systems is reinforced through formal recognition and academic infrastructure. Somaiya Vidyavihar University is UGC-approved and NAAC ‘A' accredited (2025). The K J Somaiya Institute of Dharma Studies receives an AICTE Grant, recognised by the Ministry of Education, for research and teacher training in Indian Knowledge Systems. The institution also houses the Dalai Lama Chair of Nalanda Studies, supporting advanced research in Buddhist philosophy, ethics, and interfaith dialogue. Active collaborations with organisations such as Godrej Archives, CSMV, Directorate of Archaeology and Museums, Government of Maharashtra, heritage departments, and international universities further strengthen academic exposure and professional readiness.

Interdisciplinarity remains a defining feature of the SVU experience. Students pursuing Indian knowledge disciplines have access to 20+ multidisciplinary minors across design, management, music, psychology, life sciences, literature, sports, and cultural studies. Strong research output, international student participation, and a scholarship corpus of ₹25 crore ensure both academic excellence and accessibility.

By formally embedding Indian Knowledge Systems within a modern university structure, Somaiya Vidyavihar University is demonstrating how tradition, when taught with rigor and relevance, can shape contemporary scholarship, professional pathways, and responsible leadership.

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