How was the education system in pre-British India? What were its main features?
Education System In Pre-British India
Before the arrival of the 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 need to go to Gurukula to complete their academic activities. For this, they have to stay with the Guru till the end of the course. Most Gurukulas were located near forests, so they could collect firewood and jungle supplements like honey, fruits, etc, for consumption. The food was divided among the students. Not being patriarchal, 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 that he popular quote ” Mata Pita Guru Daiva” evolved. It means that the most important person in one’s life after Parents is their teacher. God was even after Guru. The value given to teachers can be seen in this quotation. Only students of higher classes were allowed to join Gurukulas. Lower-class children were forbidden from education. Students need to do all the work given by the teacher. Now, the system has changed significantly.
– Written By Edutuber Mallu
