Education in Ancient India – The Gurukul System Around 800 BCE Education in ancient India was not just about reading scriptures or learning discipline—it was a way of living . Around 800 BCE , the Gurukul system flourished across forests, small settlements, and hermitages, offering a rare blend of knowledge, spirituality, skills, and character-building . While modern education focuses on degrees, Gurukul focused on life , turning children into responsible, emotionally grounded, and wise adults. Let’s walk into a Gurukul and live one day as a student of 800 BCE… Living With the Guru — A Family Beyond Blood Students (called shishyas ) lived in the hermitage of their teacher, the Guru . There were no school buildings, benches, or classrooms. Instead, there were: mud huts open courtyards sacred fire altars (yajna kunda) libraries of palm-leaf manuscripts and forests filled with birds and the fragrance of sandalwood The Guru was not just a teacher—he was a p...
The Humble King of a Thousand Years Ago History often remembers kings for their conquests, wealth, or dynasties. But every once in a while, a ruler emerges who is remembered not just for power, but for kindness, humility, and wisdom. Among such rare leaders was a legendary monarch of a thousand years ago, simply known in folklore as “Ek Aesaa Raja” — a king like no other. Though his true name is lost to time, the tales of his reign echo through stories, ballads, and village folklore. He was strong like a lion, wise like a sage, yet gentle like a father. Unlike many rulers who drowned in arrogance, this king’s greatness came from the fact that he ruled with compassion, not pride. A King Without Pride In the 11th century, kingdoms rose and fell across lands. Power often led to cruelty, and wealth often created arrogance. But Ek Aesaa Raja was different. Despite commanding vast armies and ruling over fertile lands, he never allowed pride to enter his heart. He walked among ...