Introduction to Bharatiya Knowledge Systems (IKS) | BharatVidya

Foundational & Generic IKS Online Course · 

Introduction toBharatiya Knowledge Systems

भारतीय ज्ञान परंपरा

A foundational course exploring India's rich intellectual heritage—from the Vedas, Buddha and Mahavira to Ayurveda, Yoga, and from Architecture to the Mathematical genius of ancient India. Taught by distinguished scholars and practitioners.

NEP 2020 Compliant 5 University Adoptions
30 hours 25 lectures 11 modules 20K+ enrolled
₹2,400
One-time · Lifetime access
Start the Course →
Introduction to Bharatiya Knowledge Systems
30 Hours
Learning Content
25 Lectures
Video Content
11 Modules
Comprehensive
English
Language
Certificate
From BORI

Course Overview

This foundational course is designed for anyone seeking to explore India's rich and diverse intellectual heritage. Across 25 meticulously crafted lectures, journey through the breadth of Bharatiya knowledge—from the sacred Vedas and epic narratives to Ayurveda, Yoga, and the mathematical genius of ancient India.

Taught by distinguished scholars and renowned practitioners, this course bridges millennia of wisdom with contemporary relevance. Whether you're a student fulfilling NEP requirements, a professional seeking cultural literacy, or a curious learner—this course provides the essential foundation.

Curriculum Themes

Bharatvarsha Indian Civilisation Vedas Epics & Puranas Indian Philosophy Arthashastra Linguistics Temple Architecture Iconography Mathematics Astronomy Chemistry Agriculture Food Sciences Ayurveda Yoga

11 Modules · 25 Lectures

Complete Curriculum

A comprehensive journey through India's intellectual heritage

01

Introduction to Indian Knowledge Systems

1 lecture · Free preview
+
Introduction to Bharatiya Knowledge SystemsFREE
02

Bharatvarsha

1 lecture · 54 min
+
Bharatvarsh
03

Vedas and Upanishads

6 lectures · 3h 56m
+
Introduction to Vedic Literature
Rigveda
Yajurveda
Samaveda
Atharvaveda
Upanishads
04

Epics and Puranas

3 lectures · 2h 27m
+
Ramayana
Mahabharata
Puranas
05

Astika Philosophies, Buddhism, Jainism and Charvaca

2 lectures · 2h 16m
+
Origins of Indian Philosophy
Indian Philosophical Schools
06

Mathematics, Astronomy and Scientific Literature

5 lectures · 3h 42m
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Ancient Indian Maths and Traditions
The Decimal System
Calendrical Systems
Linguistics
Chemistry
07

Medicine and Health

2 lectures
+
Ayurveda
Yogashastra
08

Governance and Arthashastra

2 lectures · 1h 49m
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Governance and Arthashastra Part 1
Governance and Arthashastra Part 2
09

Food and Agriculture

2 lectures · 2h 33m
+
Food
Agriculture and Animal Husbandry
10

Civilisation and Culture

4 lectures · 3h 31m
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The History of the Indian Civilisation
Ancient Indian Dynasties
Temple Architecture
Iconography
11

Conclusion

1 lecture · 11 min
+
Conclusion

Understanding the Foundation

What is Indian Knowledge Systems?

A living heritage of wisdom spanning millennia—now essential to modern Indian education

Bharatiya Gyan Parampara

भारतीय ज्ञान परंपरा

Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) encompasses the vast body of knowledge, intellectual traditions, and practices that evolved in the Indian subcontinent over thousands of years. Far from being merely historical artifacts, these are living systems of thought that continue to offer profound insights into science, philosophy, governance, health, and sustainable living.

From the mathematical genius that gave the world zero and the decimal system, to the holistic health frameworks of Ayurveda and Yoga, to sophisticated theories of linguistics, metallurgy, and astronomy—IKS represents humanity's oldest continuous intellectual tradition.

Philosophy Mathematics Astronomy Medicine Architecture Metallurgy Linguistics Governance Ecology

The NEP 2020 Mandate

India's National Education Policy 2020 marks a historic shift by making IKS an integral part of higher education curriculum. For the first time, students across all disciplines—from engineering to arts—are required to engage with India's intellectual heritage as part of their degree.

"Knowledge of India will include knowledge from ancient India and its contributions to modern India and the world... Indian Knowledge Systems, including tribal and indigenous knowledge, will be incorporated at all levels." — National Education Policy 2020, Section 4.27

Why This Matters Now

As India positions itself as a global knowledge leader, understanding our intellectual roots becomes crucial. IKS education fosters critical thinking, connects students to sustainable wisdom traditions, and enables innovation that draws from both global and indigenous knowledge systems.

This isn't about nostalgia. It's about equipping the next generation with a complete intellectual toolkit for solving 21st-century challenges.

IKS Across Every Discipline

Whether you're studying engineering, medicine, management, or humanities—Indian Knowledge Systems offers foundational insights relevant to your field.

⚙️

Engineering & Technology

Ancient India pioneered metallurgical techniques, water management systems, and architectural principles that remain studied today.

Wootz Steel Step Wells Temple Engineering
∑

Mathematics & Computing

From zero and the decimal system to early algorithms by Panini—Indian mathematics laid foundations for modern computing.

Aryabhata Brahmagupta Sulbasutras
🌿

Medicine & Health Sciences

Ayurveda and Yoga offer time-tested frameworks for preventive health, personalized medicine, and mind-body wellness.

Ayurveda Yoga Sushruta Samhita
📊

Management & Economics

Kautilya's Arthashastra remains one of history's most comprehensive treatises on statecraft, economics, and organizational strategy.

Arthashastra Rajdharma Guild Systems
🌳

Sustainability

Traditional knowledge offers models for sustainable agriculture, water conservation, and harmonious coexistence with nature.

Food Agriculture Water Harvesting
🏛️

Arts, Design & Architecture

Indian aesthetic theories, iconographic traditions, and temple architecture encode sophisticated principles of design, proportion, and symbolism.

Vastushastra Natyashastra Shilpashastra

Distinguished Scholars

Faculty

Learn from experts across multiple institutions

GM

Dr. Gauri Moghe

Course Curator
Dr. Pradeep Apte Dr. Bhagyashree Yargop Dr. Mugdha Gadgil Dr. Yogesh Bendale Dr. Girish Welankar Mr. Pranav Gokhale Dr. Manish Walvekar Dr. Anuja Joshi Mr. Rajas Vaishampayan

Implemented by 5 universities — 20,000+ first-year students have earned IKS credit through this course

Common Questions

What is IKS and why is it part of NEP 2020?+

Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) refers to the intellectual traditions and practices that evolved in India over millennia. NEP 2020 mandates IKS education to help students connect with India's rich heritage while developing critical thinking and a complete intellectual foundation.

Is this course recognized by universities?+

Yes. This course has been implemented by 5 universities and over 18,000 students have earned IKS credit through it. It is designed to meet NEP 2020 requirements for IKS education.

Do I need prior knowledge of Sanskrit or Indian philosophy?+

No prior knowledge is required. This is a foundational course designed to introduce concepts from first principles. All technical terms are explained in context, making it accessible to beginners.

How long do I have access to the course?+

You have lifetime access to all course materials. Complete it at your own pace, revisit any lecture, and return to refresh your knowledge anytime.

Is there a certificate?+

Yes, upon completing the course and quizzes you will receive a verified certificate from BharatVidya and BORI that you can share on LinkedIn or include in your academic portfolio.

Begin Your Journey into India's Intellectual Heritage

From the Vedas to modern relevance—a foundational understanding of Bharatiya Knowledge Systems awaits.

₹2,400
Start the Course →

30 hours · 25 lectures · 11 modules · Lifetime access · Certificate

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Introduction to Bharatiya Knowledge Systems (IKS) | NEP 2020 Course by BORI