A Multi-Disciplinary Approach to Indian Knowledge System: Innovation, Language and Literature

 

A Multi-Disciplinary Approach to Indian Knowledge System: Innovation, Language and Literature

Introduction

The Indian Knowledge System (IKS) stands as one of the world’s most profound intellectual traditions, embodying centuries of accumulated wisdom in science, philosophy, medicine, arts, linguistics, literature, and cultural practices. As India moves forward in the 21st century, the renewed exploration of IKS brings unique insights that blend ancient knowledge with contemporary innovation. The Two-Day National Conference on “A Multi-Disciplinary Approach to Indian Knowledge System: Innovation, Language and Literature” hosted by the School of Arts and Humanities, IIMT University, Meerut, serves as a pivotal platform to delve into this rich legacy while reinforcing the importance of linguistic diversity, literary heritage, and interdisciplinary research.

This article offers a comprehensive and detailed exploration of the conference themes, showcasing how the integration of language, literature, philosophy, and innovation strengthens the intellectual roots and modern relevance of IKS.

IIMT University: A Pillar of Academic Excellence

IIMT University, founded under the Uttar Pradesh Act Number 32 of 2016, represents a visionary institution dedicated to world-class education across diverse disciplines. Emerging from the Association of Management Studies (AMS)—established in 1994 by seven Rotarians—the university has expanded into a large educational ecosystem comprising colleges, schools, and a hospital. Today, it stands as a premier destination for learners seeking advanced, skill-oriented, and research-driven education.

The School of Arts and Humanities, established in 2019, represents the intellectual and cultural heart of the university. It offers a spectrum of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs including B.A., B.A. (Hons.) in English and Psychology, M.A. degrees in Economics, English, Hindi, History, Political Science, Psychology, and Sociology, along with Ph.D. programmes in each discipline. The school emphasizes critical thinking, cultural literacy, interdisciplinary engagement, and research excellence.

The Indian Knowledge System: A Civilizational Framework

The Linguistic Legacy of India

India’s linguistic heritage is one of the richest in the world. The Indian Knowledge System is inseparable from the languages that shaped, preserved, and transmitted its intellectual and cultural traditions.

1. Sanskrit: The Foundation of Knowledge Transmission

Sanskrit, one of the world’s oldest languages, has been central to the development of Indian ideas in:

  • Philosophy
  • Mathematics & astronomy
  • Ayurveda & traditional medicine
  • Grammar & linguistic sciences
  • Spiritual literature

Texts such as the Vedas, Upanishads, Mahabharata, Ramayana, and countless scientific treatises represent milestones in human civilization. Their philosophical depth, literary sophistication, and scientific insight continue to inspire scholars globally.

2. Prakrit, Pali, and Classical Vernacular Traditions

Prakrit and Pali shaped the literary and philosophical traditions of:

  • Buddhism (Tripitaka, Dhammapada)
  • Jainism (Agamas, narrative literature)

These languages spread ethical teachings, spirituality, and intellectual inquiry to diverse populations.

3. Medieval and Modern Regional Languages

Languages such as Hindi, Tamil, Bengali, Marathi, Telugu, and Urdu expanded India’s literary landscape. They played a crucial role during:

  • Bhakti Movement (Kabir, Mira Bai, Tulsidas)
  • Sufi traditions (Bulleh Shah, Amir Khusrau)
  • Nationalist literature (Tagore, Bharati, Premchand)

These regional languages democratized knowledge, bridging the gap between elite scholarship and the common masses.

Literature as a Reflection of Indian Intellectual Heritage

Indian Literary Theory & Philosophy

Ancient Indian literary theorists developed sophisticated frameworks:

  • Rasa Theory (Bharata Muni)
  • Alankara School (Bhamaha, Dandin)
  • Dhvani Theory (Anandavardhana)
  • Aesthetic Consciousness (Abhinavagupta)

Folk Literature: The Voice of the Masses

Indian folk literature captures:

  • Oral traditions
  • Cultural rituals
  • Community wisdom
  • Myths and legends

Portrayal of Women in Indian Literature

From classical epics to modern feminist narratives, the representation of women in Indian literature has evolved significantly. Works highlight:

  • Women’s resilience
  • Social constraints
  • Gender inequality
  • Empowerment narratives

Indian Writing in English

Indian authors writing in English—such as R.K. Narayan, Arundhati Roy, Amitav Ghosh, and Jhumpa Lahiri—have redefined global literary landscapes through themes of:

  • Identity and diaspora
  • Postcolonial consciousness
  • Cultural hybridity
  • Philosophical reflection

Innovation and Multidisciplinarity in Understanding IKS

The conference emphasizes how IKS can merge with modern disciplines such as:

  • Cognitive science
  • Artificial intelligence and linguistics
  • Cultural studies
  • Philosophy & ethics
  • Sociology and political science

Influence of Indian Thought on Global Humanities

Indian intellectuals such as:

  • Kautilya (Arthashastra) – governance & statecraft
  • Swami Vivekananda – spirituality & universal brotherhood
  • Mahatma Gandhi – non-violence & social transformation
  • Gayatri Spivak & Homi Bhabha – postcolonial theory

have shaped global philosophical and cultural discourse.

Conference Highlights and Academic Structure

Event Details

  • Date: 24–25 March 2025
  • Venue: Seminar Hall, Block-B, IIMT University
  • Time: 10:00 AM onwards

Key Sessions

  • Inaugural Session
  • Four Plenary Sessions
  • Creative Writers Session
  • Valedictory Ceremony

Keynote and Guest Speakers

Notable scholars from CCS University, SDPG College Panipat, Jain Kanya P.G College Muzaffarnagar, and A.S P.G College Lakhaoti will participate as expert speakers.

Submission & Participation Guidelines

  • Abstract: 200 words with 5–7 keywords
  • Full paper: 3000–3500 words
  • Format: MLA 9th Edition, font size 12, line spacing 1.5
  • Email: ikslal_soah@iimtindia.net
  • Registration Fee: Students – ₹200, Scholars – ₹300, Faculty – ₹500
  • Best Paper Awards (1st & 2nd)
  • Selected papers will be published in an ISBN book

Conclusion

A multidisciplinary exploration of the Indian Knowledge System blends ancient wisdom with contemporary scholarship. By integrating language, literature, innovation, and philosophy, the conference fosters a deeper understanding of India's intellectual heritage. IIMT University, through this initiative, strengthens the discourse on Indian knowledge traditions and their relevance in modern academic frameworks.

 

24-Mar-2025

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A Multi-Disciplinary Approach to Indian Knowledge System: Innovation, Language and Literature