Return to the Gurukul



Childhood is the foundation of any society. If this very foundation begins to weaken, the future inevitably falls into crisis. Today, we witness increasing incidents of violence in schools. Sometimes a student attacks a classmate, sometimes a teacher is assaulted, and many times such incidents become headlines in newspapers. This is not merely a problem of schools or children, but a warning sign for the entire society that our education system, family values, and lifestyle have drifted away from their roots.

The level of patience among children is rapidly declining. Getting angry over trivial matters, resorting to violence, and losing self-control are becoming common tendencies. One major reason is the growing influence of mobile phones and video games. Children spend hours playing violent games in which killing, shooting, and destruction are the central actions. Gradually, this seeps into their subconscious minds. When they face real-life challenges or disputes, they perceive violent reactions as natural responses. Addiction to screens has weakened their patience, sensitivity, and social behavior.

But blaming technology alone is not enough. The real question is: Are parents and teachers fulfilling their roles responsibly? Family is the first school of discipline and values. If children do not learn balance, communication, and affection at home, expecting ideal behavior outside becomes futile. Many parents, caught up in their careers and busy schedules, fail to give time to their children. Children then turn to mobile phones and the internet to fill this void, often absorbing unhealthy habits. Excessive pampering also breeds indiscipline. If every demand is fulfilled, the child never learns to respect boundaries.

This is where the traditional Gurukul system of education becomes relevant. In ancient India, education was not merely about acquiring knowledge but about character-building. In Gurukuls, students learned discipline, self-restraint, self-reliance, and community living. Education was not confined to books; rather, every activity of daily life was an exercise in morality and responsibility. Teachers were not just subject instructors but true mentors whose conduct served as living ideals. This is why Gurukul graduates grew up to be exemplary members of society.

In today’s education system, this essence is almost lost. Teachers are regarded merely as facilitators for securing grades. Parents and society expect them to deliver employability but not values. Character, discipline, and moral values have been pushed aside. The truth, however, is that knowledge loses its worth when discipline and values disappear.

Therefore, the teacher’s role is of utmost importance. A teacher must not limit themselves to textbooks but should instill patience, tolerance, and compassion in students. This is possible only if teachers themselves embody these values. Building a relationship of dialogue and guidance with children is essential. Students must be shown that the solution to problems lies not in violence but in communication and self-control.

Parents bear equal responsibility. Giving children time, listening to their concerns, guiding them between right and wrong—this is the duty of a family. Unchecked use of TV and mobile phones at home must be restricted. Parents must also model discipline and restraint in their own lives, for children learn not from instructions but from observation.

Today, what we truly need is an education model like the “Shishu Mandir,” which prioritizes Indian values and moral principles. In such a system, children begin the day with prayers, sing the national anthem, learn the grandeur of Indian culture and history, and build their lives on discipline and self-respect. Here, education does not remain confined to employment but becomes a means to shape life itself.

If we genuinely wish to protect society from violence and indiscipline, we must shift the focus of education. Mere imitation of modernity and technology will not suffice; we must return to our roots. Blending the soul of Gurukul and the model of Shishu Mandir with modern education is the only true solution. Only then will we be able to nurture a patient, disciplined, and sensitive generation.

Today, the need of the hour is for parents, teachers, and society as a whole to accept their responsibility. Providing children with material comforts alone is not enough; giving them values and discipline is the true responsibility. If this is done, schools will witness an atmosphere of love and cooperation instead of violence. Only then can we lay the foundation of a strong, disciplined, and value-driven India. 

©® Payal Laxmi Soni
Author, Critic, Journalist

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