ISSN:3048-6505 (Online)

Shodh Samarth- Research Journal of Commerce, Management & Economics

Vol.1(2), August 2024, pp. 124-137

INDIAN KNOWLEDGE SYSTEM: POST-COLONIALISM

AND GLOBALIZATION ERA
Dr. Dharmendra Kumar
Professor, Faculty of Commerce & Management, Pandit Lalit Mohan Sharma Campus, Rishikesh, Sri Dev
Suman Uttarakhand University, Badshahithaul.
Harshita Bisht
Research Scholar, P.N.G. Govt. Post Graduate College, Ramnagar, Kumaun University, Nainital,
Uttarakhand

Abstract

The Indian knowledge system is a living, evolving tradition that has consistently
modified itself to fit various historical eras while retaining its fundamental ideas. To
develop a more comprehensive and well-rounded teaching strategy, attempts are currently
being made to incorporate this ancient knowledge with contemporary education. Its
segments draw attention to how the mind, body, and spirit are all intertwined.
Comprehending and conserving the Indian knowledge system cultivates cultural identity,
facilitates intercultural communication, and enhances global viewpoints across diverse
fields. This paper aims to understand the concept of the Indian Knowledge System and its
situation Post-colonial period and Globalization era. For this purpose, desk research was
done and a conceptual study was made. It was found that efforts to revive and integrate
traditional practices in education aimed to counteract the negative impact of colonialism
on the Indian knowledge System. In the era of globalization, there is a delicate balance
between preserving traditional knowledge and adapting to global trends. The challenge lies
in navigating the complexities of a rapidly changing world while staying rooted in cultural
heritage.

Keywords: Indian Knowledge System, Cultural heritage, Globalization era, Post-colonial

period.

INTRODUCTION

Ideas such as "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" which means "the world is one family",
emphasize the moral and ecological aspects of conventional Indian philosophy. Epic stories
like the Ramayana and the Mahabharata contain intellectual, moral, and ethical lessons. An
124
 Shodh Samarth- Research Journal of Commerce, Management & Economics

important spiritual discourse known as the Bhagavad Gita is also included in the
Mahabharata. These components collectively form a rich tapestry that has shaped the
cultural, philosophical, and scientific heritage of India. Festivals like Diwali, Holi, and
Navaratri are not only celebrations but also carry cultural and philosophical significance,
promoting values of joy, harmony, and the triumph of good over evil.
British colonialism disrupted traditional Indian education systems, replacing indigenous
languages with English and introducing Western curricula. This led to a marginalization of
traditional knowledge. The colonial education system prioritized Western knowledge at the
expense of indigenous wisdom. This created a dichotomy between traditional and modern
education, contributing to a loss of confidence in native systems. The imposition of
Western values and norms eroded aspects of India's cultural identity and created a
perception of a hierarchy between Western scientific knowledge and indigenous systems.

Literature Review

A.L. Basham (2016), researched the history of Indian civilization. For those who are
interested in the history, culture, and civilization of India from its earliest times until
the arrival of Islam in the 11th century, it remains a foundational text. A vast range of
subjects, including history, religion, philosophy, art, literature, and social systems are
covered in the book's numerous sections. With an interdisciplinary approach, Basham
brings together findings from literary studies, linguistics, archeology, and anthropology
to present a comprehensive picture of ancient India. The duties of numerous social
groups and the social structure, including the caste system, are covered in the book.
Aspects of economy like trade, industry, and agriculture are also included.

Surendranath Dasgupta, S. (1922), conducted an extensive and groundbreaking study

that delves into the complex and wide-ranging field of Indian philosophy. This book is
a part of a multi-volume series that attempts to give a thorough overview of Indian
intellectual traditions. The meticulously organized book of Dasgupta covers the several
philosophical systems and schools of thought that have influenced Indian intellectual
history. It mostly concentrates on the early history of Indian philosophy, which includes
the Six Systems of Indian Philosophy, the Heterodox Schools, the Epics and Puranas,
the Vedas and Upanishads. It is a crucial text for comprehending Indian thought's
conceptual foundations. It is regarded as a seminal book in the field of Indian
philosophy because of its thorough scholarship and wide coverage.
125
 Shodh Samarth- Research Journal of Commerce, Management & Economics

Mohanty, J.N. (1989), made a substantial contribution to Indian philosophy. The book
examines how tradition and reason interact within the framework of Indian philosophy.
Mohanty uses a dialectical method to study the relationship between tradition and
reason in Indian philosophy. He contends that rather than being a single, cohesive
philosophy, Indian thinking is a dynamic synthesis of many intellectual traditions that
interact with one another. The book emphasizes how Indian philosophy is pluralistic,
with several schools of thought coexisting and frequently contradicting one another. It
is believed that this diversity is a strength since it fosters a vibrant and diverse
intellectual environment. In his comparative philosophy, Mohanty compares and
contrasts the traditions of Indian and Western philosophy. He contends that a deeper
comprehension of philosophy as a whole can result from seeing the parallels and
discrepancies among various systems. It provides an in-depth analysis of the interaction
between tradition and reason, offering important insights into the dynamic and eclectic
character of Indian thinking.

Durie (2005), investigates the connection between local and universal knowledge
systems. It highlights how crucial it is to value and acknowledge indigenous knowledge
within the larger framework of world knowledge. According to Durie, indigenous
knowledge is essential for sustainable development and creativity in addition to being
a cultural legacy. An extensive summary of the importance of indigenous knowledge is
given in the study.It emphasizes how crucial cooperation and respect between various
knowledge systems are to each other. Case studies and real-world examples back up
Durie's claims. It makes a major addition to the conversation about the importance of
indigenous knowledge.It emphasizes how important it is for indigenous knowledge to
be acknowledged and included into international systems in order to promote
innovation and sustainable development. Frameworks for incorporating indigenous
knowledge into global knowledge systems are proposed in this research. Durie supports
curriculum changes in education that incorporate indigenous knowledge.

P. Mandavkar (2023), examines the numerous, varied, and rich knowledge traditions
that have grown over millennia in India. This covers the conventional sciences, the arts,
literature, philosophy, and more, all of which have added to the body of knowledge on
a worldwide scale. Mandavkar highlights the relevance of these systems in the modern
era as well as their possible advances in science and technology. The book offers a

126
 Shodh Samarth- Research Journal of Commerce, Management & Economics

thorough historical review of Indian knowledge systems, tracing their origins to

prehistoric times. The article covers significant advancements in several disciplines,
including astronomy, mathematics, Ayurvedic medicine, and architecture. In particular,
the relationship between spirituality and empirical knowledge is explored, as the
research explores the philosophical underpinnings of Indian knowledge systems. This
all-encompassing method is in contrast to Western traditions' more fragmented
understanding of knowledge. The usefulness of these antiquated knowledge systems in
solving contemporary problems is also covered in the study. It makes a significant
addition to the conversation about indigenous knowledge and where it fits into the
larger body of knowledge.

Research Methodology

A structured and scientific approach is used to collect, analyze, and interpret

qualitative data to fulfill the objectives. A research methodology is like a plan for carrying
out research and helps keep researchers on track by limiting the scope of the research.

Objectives of the study

 To understand the concept and inception of the Indian Knowledge System.

 To briefly study the significance of the Indian Knowledge System.
 To inquire into the Indian Knowledge System of the Post-colonial era.
 To intensely analyze the Indian Knowledge System in the Globalization Era.

Research type

Qualitative (Archival research) type of research was employed for the study.

Data Collection

For the purpose of data collection Secondary data was taken from journals, books,
government websites and reports.

Concept Of Indian Knowledge System

Throughout millennia, a wide variety of traditional beliefs, practices, and

knowledge have come together to form the Indian knowledge system. Drawing from
ancient scriptures such as the Vedas, Upanishads, and different shastras, it encompasses a

127
 Shodh Samarth- Research Journal of Commerce, Management & Economics

wide range of disciplines including philosophy, astronomy, mathematics, Ayurvedic

medicine, art, and music, among others. It exhibits a holistic perspective, stressing the
pursuit of both material and spiritual well-being as well as the interdependence of all things.
The Indian knowledge system continues to be a source of inspiration and research and has
made a substantial contribution to the world's intellectual history.

Inception of the Indian Knowledge System

The Indian knowledge system has a long history, having developed over countless
years. It includes a wide range of disciplines, including astronomy, mathematics, medicine,
and philosophy. This rich legacy was shaped in large part by ancient books such as the
Vedas, Upanishads, and texts like the Arthashastra and Manusmriti. Important intellectuals
like Aryabhata, Chanakya, and AdiShankaracharya made substantial contributions to
India's intellectual history. The Gurukul educational system, in which pupils resided with
teachers, was also essential to the dissemination of knowledge.

Components of the Indian Knowledge System

The intellectual concepts, rituals, and songs recorded in the sacred writings known as the
Vedas and Upanishads serve as the cornerstone of Hinduism.

a) Puranas - Anthologies of myths, stories, and ancestries that impart spiritual and
moral teachings.
b) Philosophy - Institutions such as Samkhya, Nyaya, and Vedanta study
epistemological, ethical, and metaphysical issues.
c) Astronomy - Important contributions were made by Indian astronomers in
antiquity, including Aryabhata's research on planetary placements.
d) Mathematics - Ancient Indian mathematics is where the concept of zero, the
decimal system, and advances in algebra and geometry arose.
e) Dharma and Karma - are fundamental ideas that emphasize living a moral life and
the law of cause and consequence.
f) Ayurveda - An ancient medical system that used natural cures and lifestyle
modifications to promote holistic health.
g) Yoga - A physical and spiritual practice that promotes mental health and self-
realization.

128
 Shodh Samarth- Research Journal of Commerce, Management & Economics

h) Classical arts - Age-old disciplines that reflect cultural expressions and ideals, such
as Kathak, Bharatanatyam, Carnatic music, and classical painting.
i) Spiritual and Philosophical Diversity - India is renowned for its many philosophical
traditions, ranging from the dualistic viewpoints of Dvaita Vedanta to the non-
dualism of Advaita Vedanta. The variety of these philosophies creates a rich mental
tapestry.
j) Astrology/Jyotisha -Jyotisha is the traditional Astrology and Astronomy system of
Hinduism. It guides many facets of life, from determining the best times for rituals
to comprehending personal fates.
k) Epics and Mythology - In addition to being epic stories, the Ramayana and
Mahabharata are also stores of moral, ethical, and practical knowledge. In modern
India, they still influence cultural narratives and ideals.
l) Environmental Wisdom - The relationship between humans and the environment is
emphasized in several ancient Indian scriptures.
m) Language and Linguistics - Known as the sacred language of Sanskrit, it has been
essential to the transmission and preservation of knowledge. In the discipline of
linguistics, Panini's work on Sanskrit grammar is highly recognized.
n) Social Sciences – Chanakyaattributed ancient Indian books such as Arthashastra
offer valuable insights on political science, economics, and governance. These
books combine ethical reflections with helpful guidance.
o) Bhakti and Sufi Traditions - India is home to a diverse range of devotional
traditions, including Sufism in Islam and Bhakti in Hinduism. These customs add
to the nation's cultural richness by emphasizing an intimate, personal relationship
with God.
p) Pluralism and tolerance - Historically, the Indian knowledge system has welcomed
a wide range of ideologies and customs. The coexistence of different religious sects,
and philosophical schools, and the general attitude of acceptance and tolerance are
symbolic.
q) Gurukul System - In the past, education was frequently provided in Gurukuls,
where students lived with their professors and received a comprehensive education
that included life skills and values in addition to academic knowledge.

129
 Shodh Samarth- Research Journal of Commerce, Management & Economics

Importance of Indian Knowledge System

The Indian knowledge system is extremely significant since it has a significant

influence on many different fields. Ancient Indian writings such as the Vedas and
Upanishads offer profound insights into spirituality and the essence of life, impacting not
only religious beliefs but also global philosophical discourse. Significant advances in
algebra, trigonometry, and astronomy have been made by Indian mathematicians such as
Aryabhata and Brahmagupta. India is the birthplace of the decimal numeral system and
ideas like zero, which have influenced worldwide advances in mathematics. The ancient
Indian medical system known as Ayurveda places a strong emphasis on overall health. It
has impacted conventional medicine all around the world, and Indian-inspired techniques
like yoga and meditation improve both mental and physical health.

Indian literature exhibits rich storytelling and poetic traditions, from epics like the
Mahabharata and Ramayana to classical works like those of Kalidasa. Indian sculpture and
traditional dance are examples of art that showcases the country's creative and diverse
culture. The philosophical traditions of Samkhya, Nyaya, and Vedanta offer frameworks
for comprehending morality, logic, and existence. These lessons are still applicable in
discussions on ethics.

Post-Colonialism Era

In India, the years following its 1947 declaration of independence from British
colonial control are referred to as post-colonial. It includes the social, political, and
economic shifts that took place when India became an independent country from a colony.
During this time, there were attempts to forge a new identity, deal with the effects of
colonialism, and formulate development and governance policies. During this time, India
faced difficulties like economic inequality, social unrest, and partition, all of which shaped
the country's future as it attempted to identify itself in the post-colonial world.
Post-colonial scholars have called for a re-evaluation and reclamation of indigenous
knowledge. Post-colonial India has witnessed cultural hybridity, where traditional and
Western knowledge systems have intersected and influenced each other. This fusion is
evident in fields like literature, art, and philosophy. There is an ongoing discourse on

130
 Shodh Samarth- Research Journal of Commerce, Management & Economics

decolonizing education to restore the value of indigenous knowledge. This involves

incorporating local perspectives, languages, and traditional practices into the curriculum.

Indian Knowledge System in the Post-colonial Era

The Indian knowledge system has benefited from the post-colonial age in many ways:

 Formal education and contemporary institutions were brought during the colonial
era, which helped literacy and knowledge grow throughout the nation.
 Development was aided overall by exposure to Western scientific methods and
technology, which led to breakthroughs in engineering, technology, and medicine.
 The Indian system of government and justice remains structured due to the legal
and administrative framework that the British imposed.
 The basis for a modern India was built by the investments made by colonial rulers
in the development of infrastructure, including telecommunication, urban planning,
and railroads.
 With increased global engagement, post-colonial India has promoted international
cooperation, cross-cultural contacts, and a more expansive worldview.
 After India gained independence, a democratic political system was established as
a result of the colonial experience, which shaped the country's democratic values.
 To address concerns of caste discrimination, gender equality, and underprivileged
communities, post-colonial India has placed a greater emphasis on social justice
and human rights.
 A diverse and diversified society has been made possible by exposure to Western
literature, the arts, and ideas, which have enhanced the cultural landscape.
 The incorporation of Western academic approaches and viewpoints has expanded
the research environment in India and made it more globally competitive.
 Disseminating information, encouraging public discourse, and raising awareness
have all benefited from the emergence of contemporary media and communication
technologies.

The negative impact of post-colonialism on the Indian knowledge system

 Traditional Indian cultural practices were disrupted and distorted by colonialism,

which caused certain groups to lose their sense of cultural identity.

131
 Shodh Samarth- Research Journal of Commerce, Management & Economics

 Native languages were marginalized and some communities' access to education

was hampered as English emerged as the primary language for administration and
education.
 The colonial educational system frequently served to uphold hierarchies by
favoring Western knowledge over indigenous wisdom and fostering a sense of
inferiority toward native knowledge systems.
 Indigenous knowledge connected to sustainable practices and regional ecosystems
was impacted by the colonial economic policies that exploited resources and
created economic inequities.
 Social divides were institutionalized by the colonial government, which led to
problems like caste discrimination and unequal access to education that still have
an impact on society today.

Despite these detrimental effects, there is a rising understanding of the necessity of

recovering and reviving indigenous Indian knowledge systems in the post-colonial period
to promote a more inclusive and well-rounded approach to cultural practices, research, and
education.

Globalization

Liberalization, privatization, and globalization (LPG) were among the economic

reforms associated with globalization in India, which began in the early 1990s. Trade
liberalization, international investment, and global economic integration all increased
during this time. The goals of the changes were to draw in international investment, open
up markets, and lessen government intrusion. India saw notable expansion in industries
like as IT, heightened cross-cultural interaction, and accession to international trade
accords. Even while globalization had positive effects on the economy, there were
drawbacks as well, like income disparity and environmental issues. All things considered,
it changed the face of the Indian economy and elevated it to a major position on the world
stage.

Indian Knowledge System in the Globalization Era

Indians now have unparalleled access to global information thanks to globalization.

Digital technology and the internet have made knowledge more accessible and have made
132
 Shodh Samarth- Research Journal of Commerce, Management & Economics

it possible for people to interact with a wide range of viewpoints and ideas. Indian students
now have more options to pursue their education overseas because of globalization. An
increasingly globalized and integrated educational landscape is a result of international
collaborations and exchange programs. India has experienced an acceleration of global
inventions and technology transfer. This has ramifications for research and development,
as Indian universities work with foreign partners to remain at the forefront of scientific and
technical breakthroughs. A lively exchange of cultures has resulted from globalization.

The positive impact of globalization on the Indian knowledge system

 Globalization has made it easier for people to access a wealth of knowledge and
information. Digital technologies and the internet have democratized education,
giving Indians access to a wide variety of global ideas, research, and instructional
materials.
 Collaboration between Indian educational institutions and their international
counterparts has been facilitated by globalization. This encourages the sharing of
knowledge, research, and scholarly materials, making the educational system more
globally competitive.
 Global inventions and technology transfer have propelled India's progress. India's
scientific and technological skills are enhanced by its access to state-of-the-art
technologies and research developments from around the globe.
 The Indian economy is now a part of the world economy because of globalization.
Economic growth and development have been promoted as a result of the rise in
foreign investments, employment opportunities, and exposure to international
business methods.
 India now enjoys an atmosphere that is favorable to innovation and
entrepreneurship thanks to the interconnected global economy. Start-ups can take
advantage of international marketplaces to draw in foreign funding and
partnerships.
 Cultural interchange has been facilitated by globalization, introducing Indians to a
diverse range of world cultures. This diversity promotes tolerance and
understanding between cultures, making society more cosmopolitan and open-
minded.

133
 Shodh Samarth- Research Journal of Commerce, Management & Economics

 In the backdrop of globalization, English has emerged as a crucial language. Being

able to communicate effectively in English facilitates collaboration in a variety of
fields, such as business, science, and academics.
 India's understanding of environmental issues has grown as a result of
globalization. To address global environmental concerns, participation in
international environmental efforts and the sharing of sustainable practices are
helpful.
 Globalization has paved the way for Indian talent to gain international recognition.
India's soft power is enhanced by the recognition that its experts receive on a global
scale in domains such as science, technology, literature, and the arts.
 Due to globalization, Indian colleges are becoming more diverse, with staff and
students from all over the world fostering a vibrant learning atmosphere. The entire
educational experience is improved by this exposure.

Globalization has brought about several challenges and negative impacts on the Indian
knowledge system. Here are key aspects highlighting these concerns:

 Concerns regarding the decline of traditional Indian cultural values and customs
have been raised by the predominance of global cultural influences, particularly
through media and entertainment. There are instances when indigenous knowledge
and customs are eclipsed by Westernization.
 Due to globalization, education has become a private good globally rather than a
public good domestically. These days, education is viewed as a product of global
trade.
 The scientific revolution that changed Europe was greatly aided by the decimal
system, which originated and flourished in India.
 Although being able to communicate in English is a benefit, placing too much
emphasis on it as a teaching medium can cause regional languages to be neglected.
The preservation of linguistic diversity and the local knowledge that is contained
in native languages is called into question by this transition.
 Education inequality might get worse as a result of globalization. The
internationalization of education may help metropolitan areas, but rural areas may
find it difficult to stay up, creating a growing knowledge gap between the two.

134
 Shodh Samarth- Research Journal of Commerce, Management & Economics

 Popular culture's tendency toward globalization can result in cultural homogeneity,

in which a homogenized, multinational culture eclipses the unique local cultures.
This may lessen the distinctiveness of local knowledge bases.
 Globalization poses a danger to traditional ecological knowledge, which is essential
for sustainable activities. The drive for uniform methods and contemporary farming
techniques may challenge traditional knowledge about biodiversity preservation.
 The phenomenon known as "brain drain," in which gifted people relocate to other
nations in search of work and education, may be exacerbated by the allure of better
prospects elsewhere. Knowledge capital and skilled workers may be lost as a result
of this.

Westernization alone does not define globalization; it also includes relationships that
transcend Western domination and benefit other nations. Due to globalization, Indian
education is now more globally relevant and focused on the market. However, maintaining
indigenous knowledge and cultural legacy continues to be a major obstacle.

Conclusion

Indian knowledge system modernization has resulted in a synthesis of ancient

knowledge and new developments. It has made education more accessible, sparked
technological innovation, and encouraged international cooperation. As a result, India's
intellectual environment has become more varied and dynamic. Nonetheless, difficulties
in upholding cultural authenticity, resolving inequalities, and adjusting to quick changes
continue. All things considered, modernization has complicated but beneficial effects on
India's knowledge system. All things considered, modernization has complicated but
beneficial effects on India's knowledge system. It has resulted in a synthesis of ancient
knowledge and new developments. It has made education more accessible, sparked
technological innovation, and encouraged international cooperation. As a result, India's
intellectual environment has become more varied and dynamic. However, challenges
remain in upholding cultural authenticity, resolving inequalities, and adjusting to quick
changes.

135
 Shodh Samarth- Research Journal of Commerce, Management & Economics

References

Basham, A.L. (2016). The Wonder That Was India. INTERNET ARCHIVE.
https://archive.org/details/TheWonderThatWasIndiaByALBasham/page/n196/mode/1up

Bourdieu, P. (1996). The Political Ontology of Martin Heidegger. Stanford: Stanford

University Press, 1991. P.no. 3-4.
https://archive.org/details/politicalontolog0000pier/page/n3/mode/2up

Chakrabarti, Arindam. (2017). "Rationality in Indian Philosophy." Philosophies of India.

https://www.academia.edu/84397897/Rationality_in_Indian_Philosophy

Dasgupta, S. (1922). History of Indian philosophy vol.1. Cambridge at the University

Press, London.
https://archive.org/details/in.gov.ignca.8897/page/n19/mode/2up

Durie, M. (2005). Indigenous Knowledge Within a Global Knowledge System.

ResearchGate. Vol.18. p.301-312.
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/240504153_Indigenous_Knowledge_Within_a_
Global_Knowledge_System

Gupta, B. "Reason and Experience in Indian Philosophy." Indian Council of

Philosophical Research, 2009.https://www.scribd.com/document/704748282/Reason-
and-Experience-in-Indian-Philosophy-Bina-Gupta

Malhotra, R. (2022). Traditional Knowledge Systems of India. Sanskriti.

https://www.sanskritimagazine.com/india/traditional-knowledge-systems-of-india/

Mandavkar, P. (2023). Indian Knowledge System. SSRN Electronic Journal.

DOI:10.2139/ssrn.4589986.
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/374373778_Indian_Knowledge_System_IKS

Mohanty, Jitendra N. "Reason and Tradition in Indian Thought." Oxford University

Press, 1989. https://academic.oup.com/book/49877

136
 Shodh Samarth- Research Journal of Commerce, Management & Economics

Pollock, S. (1985). The Theory of Practice and the Practice of Theory in Indian
Intellectual History. Journal of the American Oriental Society. P.no. 499-519.
https://www.jstor.org/stable/601525

Traditional knowledge systems of

India.https://www.sanskritimagazine.com/india/traditional-knowledge-systems-of-india/

Zimmer, H. (1952). Philosophies of India. Routledge & Kegan Paul Ltd.

Archive.org.https://archive.org/details/dli.ernet.531762

https://iksindia.org/about.php

137