Influence of Indian Traditional Knowledge on Sustainability: The Maha Kumbh journey

 

Influence of Indian Traditional Knowledge on Sustainability: The Mahakumbh journey

Indian traditional Knowledge Systems, developed thousands of years ago, do have the capacity to provide keys to today’s VUCA world (Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, Ambiguous). The more we focus on technology as harbingers of the progress and prosperity of human civilisation, the more problems are generated too, mainly pertaining to the maintenance and sustainability of the structures for energy, infrastructure, livelihoods, social relationships, health, and survival, in the long run. 

Indian Knowledge Systems focus on the power of nature, it’s resources, and the respect that they deserve. Moreover they focus on the true collective, every individual working together, utilising their strengths and competencies to create ecosystems that sustain themselves with simple principles, shared existences and minimum wastage. These are the thoughts that run through one’s mind, as one takes a dip in the Ganga, on the occasion of Mahakumbh. The river, worshipped, with Earth, as the Mother, the feminine, the nurturer, the protector, is acknowledged as the cradle of civilisation, and our philosophy, our tasks, reflect that.

We have a tradition of the Vidushi, the teacher who incorporates the power of the feminine, as a teacher, and a professional. Maitreyi, a prominent female philosopher from the Upanishadic era, is known for her insightful dialogues with her husband, the sage Yajnavalkya, in the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad. her teachings and philosophical inquiries carry important values that can be aligned with modern sustainability education.

 In her discourse with Yajnavalkya, Maitreyi famously explores the question of the true nature of happiness and fulfillment, asking whether wealth or material possessions can lead to eternal satisfaction. Her realization that only knowledge of the eternal self (Atman or Brahman) brings true contentment highlights her wisdom and focus on inner wealth rather than external, material accumulation. 

This philosophical approach provides a foundation for sustainability education in several ways:

 1. Focus on Simplicity and Non-Materialism

 Maitreyi’s questioning of the value of wealth over wisdom reflects a deep understanding that material excess does not lead to lasting fulfillment. This principle resonates with modern sustainability, where the emphasis is on reducing material consumption, minimizing waste, and avoiding overexploitation of natural resources. Sustainability education often includes fostering an attitude of moderation and respect for the environment, values that Maitreyi’s inquiries subtly support.

 2. Inquiry into Purposeful Living

 Maitreyi’s pursuit of knowledge over material gain aligns with the idea of living purposefully and mindfully, a key component of sustainability education. In modern terms, this would involve teaching people to live in a way that does not deplete resources or harm the planet, focusing on long-term well-being rather than short-term material gain.

 3. Emphasis on Knowledge and Wisdom

 Her desire for knowledge over material wealth emphasizes the importance of education, learning, and wisdom in achieving a meaningful life. In the context of sustainability, this could be viewed as advocating for the importance of education about environmental stewardship, ecological balance, and sustainable practices. Education is one of the most critical aspects of fostering a society that is aware of its ecological footprint and works toward solutions.

 4. Holistic Understanding of Life

 Maitreyi’s philosophical outlook promotes the understanding that the material world is transient, while knowledge and wisdom lead to eternal truths. This mirrors the holistic approach of sustainability, which emphasizes the interrelationship between society, economy, and the environment. It encourages individuals to think beyond their immediate needs and consider the long-term impact of their actions on future generations.

 In summary, IKS contribute to sustainability education by encouraging a focus on inner fulfillment, wisdom, and mindful living. Their rejection of materialism and her pursuit of higher knowledge reflect principles that can inform sustainable practices and promote a shift from consumption-driven lifestyles to more balanced and environmentally conscious ways of living. The Kumbha Snan brings to the fore the principles of universal communities, a judicious sharing of resources and the earth taking it’s own pace to recover, grow and thrive, that being the ultimate rubric for the right quality of life.

Dr. Maumita Sengupta

Associate Professor

Techno India University, West Bengal

www.technoindiauniversity.ac.in

Comments

  1. JiteshFebruary 27, 2025 at 6:29 PM

    Well said. Self introspection and strive for knowledge is an essential part of ascending to a higher state.

    Subconsciously all of us are imbibing few aspects everyday. However to skim through and retain or amplify what we think as beneficial for our own self is the key part.

    A flowing Maa Ganga is an epitomy of the constant movement of thoughts and belief system and as rightly mentioned the confluence of thoughts and belief system from other people with our own enriches you and makes you a better person and human.

    Warm Regards

    ReplyDelete
  2. Sukanta SanyalFebruary 27, 2025 at 6:44 PM

    An extremely informative and interesting read.
    The importance of knowledge leading to inner fulfilment is the key.
    And living a life in harmony with nature and allowing it to take precedence over material greed and avariciousness is so very important in today's world.

    ReplyDelete

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