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Introduction

India has fascinated foreigners and travelers throughout history, being a land of wonders. The Indian culture has always encouraged humanity.

Summary: Ancient Education System of India | English Class 8

Salient Features of Ancient Education System

It emphasized holistic development, focusing on truth, humility, and respect for all creations. Encompassing all aspects of life, it was complementary to life itself.

Sources of Education


​​​​​​​​Derived from Vedas, Brahmanas, Upanishads, and Dharmasutras, notable ancient scholars like Aryabhata, Panini, and Katyayana contributed. The distinction between Shastras and Kavyas was clear.
  • Subjects included History, Logic, Interpretation, Architecture, Polity, etc.
  • Universities organized games, and modern-day peer collaboration was present.
  • Teachers and pupils worked closely, and debates were organized to test knowledge.

Summary: Ancient Education System of India | English Class 8


Ancient Education System in India – A Way of Life

India had both formal and informal education systems. Temples were involved in imparting quality ancient education, and higher studies took place in viharas and universities, known as Gurukuls.

  • The main purpose was to lead a well-defined and disciplined life.
  • Living together of gurus and shishyas strengthened their relationship.
  • Studies enriched both inner and outer personalities.
    Summary: Ancient Education System of India | English Class 8
  • Monks and nuns meditated in monasteries/viharas, attracting learners from various regions.

Viharas and Universities

According to Jataka tales by Xuan Zang and I-Qingkings showed a special interest in education. Famous universities like Nalanda and Vikramshila, owed their existence to royal contributions.

  • Centers of learning catered to higher education needs, fostering knowledge through discussions.Summary: Ancient Education System of India | English Class 8
  • Occasions resembled modern-day conferences with scholars from different universities or viharas participating.

Takshashila or Taxila

A noted center of learning, including Buddhism, destroyed in the 5th century CE. Known for higher education, Panini, a notable alumnus, authored Ashtadhyayi, a famous grammar work. Despite arduous journeys, students visited this UNESCO World Heritage Site from remote places. 

Nalanda University


The hub of various subjects, visited by Chinese scholars I-Qing and Xuan Zang in the 7th century CE. Nalanda organized numerous debates in one day. Xuan Zang, a student, covered a spectrum of knowledge. Located in Bihar, it is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Role of Community

Education was free, supported by donations from rich merchants. In South India, agraharas were education centers. Ghatika, a small-size center, was also present, emphasizing learning religion.

Continuation of Indian Education System


Maktabas and madrassas became integral in medieval school education, supported by villagers. The foundation laid in rich cultural traditions aimed at developing the whole human being. The present education system has much to learn from this ancient system.

Summary: Ancient Education System of India | English Class 8

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1. What were the salient features of the ancient education system in India?
Ans. The salient features of the ancient education system in India were: - Emphasis on holistic development: The education system focused on the physical, mental, and spiritual development of individuals. - Gurukula system: Students lived with their gurus and received education in a residential setting. - Oral transmission: Knowledge was primarily passed down through oral teachings and memorization. - Practical learning: Education included practical skills such as agriculture, warfare, and trade. - Value-based education: Students were taught moral and ethical values along with academic subjects.
2. How was the ancient education system in India considered a way of life?
Ans. The ancient education system in India was considered a way of life because it was not limited to academic learning alone. It encompassed various aspects of life, including moral values, physical fitness, social responsibilities, and spiritual development. Education was not just about acquiring knowledge but also about shaping one's character and personality. It was believed that education should prepare individuals for a meaningful and purposeful life, contributing to the well-being of society.
3. What were Viharas and Universities in the ancient education system of India?
Ans. Viharas were residential monastic institutions where Buddhist monks and scholars lived and studied. These Viharas served as centers of learning and intellectual exchange. They were not only places of education but also spiritual retreats. Universities, on the other hand, were higher education institutions that offered advanced learning in various fields. The most famous ancient Indian universities were Nalanda and Taxila. These universities attracted scholars from different parts of the world and offered a wide range of subjects, including philosophy, mathematics, medicine, astrology, and literature.
4. What was the role of the community in the ancient education system of India?
Ans. The community played a significant role in the ancient education system of India. Education was not limited to the boundaries of a classroom or a teacher-student relationship. The community as a whole was responsible for the education and upbringing of children. It provided a supportive and nurturing environment for learning. The community members, including elders, parents, and neighbors, actively participated in the education process. They shared their knowledge, experiences, and wisdom with the younger generation. The community also organized festivals, cultural events, and gatherings where knowledge and skills were shared and celebrated. The collective effort of the community ensured the holistic development of individuals and the preservation of cultural heritage.
5. Did the Indian education system continue to evolve after ancient times?
Ans. Yes, the Indian education system continued to evolve after ancient times. Over the centuries, India witnessed the influence of various rulers, invaders, and foreign cultures, which brought changes to the education system. The introduction of formal schools, the inclusion of new subjects, the development of new teaching methods, and the impact of technological advancements are some of the changes that occurred. However, the core values of holistic education, moral values, and the importance of Guru-disciple relationship have remained a part of the Indian education system. The modern education system in India is a blend of ancient wisdom and contemporary knowledge. It continues to strive for the overall development of individuals while adapting to the changing needs of society.
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