The Mahakumbh in Prayagraj is more than a grand spiritual gathering—it’s a crucible of wisdom where ancient truths meet modern challenges. In a profound dialogue between revered figures like Sri Ganga Sharan Maharaj Ji and the individual known as IIT Baba or Kalki Baba, a vision emerged for transforming education to reconnect today’s youth with Sanatan Dharma. This conversation, set against the spiritual vibrancy of the Mahakumbh, critiqued the shortcomings of modern education and proposed a path that integrates self-understanding, science, and spirituality. Here’s how this vision aims to bridge ancient wisdom with the needs of a new generation.
The Crisis in Modern Education
Today’s education system, both in India and globally, is seen as leading youth toward distortion (vikriti) and negative tendencies (vikar). It prioritizes external knowledge—facts, skills, and credentials—while neglecting the inner workings of the self. The body is described as a vyavastha (system), much like a democracy or a smartphone operates as a system. Yet, most people are unaware of their own internal tantra—the intricate interplay of thoughts, emotions, and energy that shapes their being.
For example, watching a movie or engaging in a heated conversation can trigger subtle changes in our inner state, like tears or anxiety, but modern education doesn’t teach us to understand these responses. This gap in self-knowledge leaves individuals vulnerable to external influences, acting without awareness of how their thoughts and environment shape them. The result is a generation disconnected from their essence, grappling with confusion and unaddressed inner conflicts.
The Need for Self-Understanding: Exploring the Inner Tantra
At the heart of this vision is the call to understand one’s own tantra—the system of the human body and soul. This isn’t about chasing yogic miracles or mastering external systems like politics or technology. It’s about comprehending the flow of energy (urja) within, how thoughts trigger physical and emotional responses, and how the soul interacts with the physical vessel. Just as a soul in a dog’s body would need to understand that animal’s instincts, a human soul must learn the nuances of the human system.
The Mahakumbh dialogue emphasized that today’s youth are largely disconnected from this knowledge, yet there’s hope. More young people are showing genuine curiosity about their inner world—they just need guidance. By teaching them to explore their tantra, we can empower them to live with awareness, making choices that align with their true nature rather than external pressures.
Integrating Science and Spirituality
To make Sanatan Dharma accessible to a science-oriented generation, the speakers proposed a powerful approach: integrating science and spirituality. Instead of asking youth to blindly “believe,” the goal is to show them how scientific principles align with ancient wisdom. Deep exploration of any subject—be it physics, computer science, or linguistics—ultimately leads to the same Sanatan truth, the eternal principles underlying existence.
For instance, research in Germany has delved into Sanskrit’s linguistic depth, while America’s computer systems draw inspiration from Sanskrit grammar’s logical structure. By highlighting these connections, educators can overcome skepticism and demonstrate that Sanatan Dharma isn’t just spiritual dogma—it’s a verifiable framework rooted in universal truths. This approach invites youth to see science and spirituality as two sides of the same coin, fostering a holistic understanding that resonates with their rational minds.
Challenges in Reimagining Education
The path to this integrated education faces significant hurdles:
Overburdened Systems: The current education system places heavy demands on students, even young children, leaving little room for self-exploration.
Lack of Interest: Many youth prioritize practical skills over inner knowledge, viewing spiritual pursuits as irrelevant to modern careers.
Shortage of Teachers: There’s a scarcity of jankars (knowledgeable guides) who can teach this integrated approach. Few schools, colleges, or Gurukuls