Reply To: Education system in pre British India.

Before the arrival of British in India , the educational system was entirely different from that of today. Students were known as shishya . The teacher was known as Guru. Students needs to go to Gurukula to complete their academic activicties. For this , they have to stay with the Guru till the end of the course. Most Gurukulas were located near forests, so they can collect firewood and jungle suppliments like honey, fruits etc for consumption . The food was divided among the students. Not being patriarchial, but it is a fact that approximately all Gurus were male. They would look after the gurukulas with their wife. It was during this time the popular quote " Mata Pita Guru Daiva" evolved. It means that the most important person in one's life after Parents is their teacher. God were even after Guru. The value given to teachers can be seen in this quotation. Only students of higher class were allowed to join in Gurukulas. Lower class children were forbidden from education. Students need to do every work given by the teacher. Now , the system has changed significantly .