Essence of Traditional Knowledge PDF

Essence of Traditional Knowledge Dr.V.Vijayalakshmi Associate Professor, SSL Vellore Institute of Technology, Chennai Introduction to the Course Hello Learners, Welcome to the Course of ETK. As we are...

Essence of Traditional Knowledge Dr.V.Vijayalakshmi Associate Professor, SSL Vellore Institute of Technology, Chennai Introduction to the Course Hello Learners, Welcome to the Course of ETK. As we are moving very fast in this modern globalized world, you may think that, does TK has any significance. Do we really need that on this present day. Let us try to understand the essence of the course to answer to this question Course Contents of ETK Traditional knowledge - Indigenous Knowledge -Traditional knowledge Vs Western Knowledge - Culture and Civilization - Cultural practices in India - Languages and Literature - Religion and Philosophy in India -Religious Reform Movements in Modern India - Fine Arts in India - Science and Technology - Traditional Medicine-Traditional Knowledge in different sectors like and architecture, management, engineering and so on and so forth - Management of biodiversity and Protection of Traditional knowledge -Legal framework and Traditional Knowledge - The protection of traditional knowledge bill, 2016. The course ETK gives a clear idea on the Indian culture and traditions, significance of traditional knowledge in literature and religion, Indian traditional knowledge in different sectors like science, technology and engineering and management streams, architecture, traditional medicine, yoga  and healing practices, bio diversity and sustainable development, expressions in fine arts, music and dance and also in addition throws light on the legal framework and traditional knowledge. The students enrolled in this course can acquire the significance of Indian Traditional Knowledge and it enables them to analyze and understand the arts and science behind the traditional knowledge system. Hope you enjoy learning this Course Thank you  Essence of Traditional Knowledge Dr.V.Vijayalakshmi Associate Professor, SSL Vellore Institute of Technology, Chennai Hello Learners, in the last video we discussed on the Course Contents of Essence of Traditional Knowledge, in this video, let us try to understand the Definition and meaning of Traditional Knowledge. Traditional knowledge refers to the knowledge, innovations and practices of indigenous and local communities around the world. Developed from experience gained over the centuries and adapted to the local culture and environment. It tends to be collectively owned and takes the form of stories, songs, folklore, proverbs, cultural values, beliefs, rituals, community laws, local language, and agricultural practices, including the development of plant species and animal breeds. Traditional knowledge is transmitted from generation to generation orally. “Traditional knowledge” is an open-ended way to refer to tradition-based literary, artistic or scientific works; performances; inventions; scientific discoveries; designs; marks, names and symbols; undisclosed information; and all other tradition-based innovations and creations resulting from intellectual activity. Definition The definition of traditional knowledge used by the World Intellectual Property Office (WIPO) includes indigenous knowledge relating to categories such as agricultural knowledge, medicinal knowledge, biodiversity- related knowledge, and expressions of folklore in the form of music, dance, song, handicraft, designs, stories and artwork. What is Traditional Knowledge? Medicinal, Agricultural Music & Dance, & Ecological Knowledge Stories & Poetry Artesanat Spiritual Expression (Handicrafts) Transmitted Collective orally across responsibility & generations ownership Constantly evolving How do Native people define traditional knowledge? It is practical common sense based on teachings and experiences passed on from generation to generation. It is knowing the country. It covers knowledge of the environment - snow, ice, weather, resources - and the relationships between things. It is holistic. It cannot be compartmentalized and cannot be separated from the people who hold it. It is rooted in the spiritual health, culture and language of the people. It is a way of life. Traditional knowledge is an authority system. It sets out the rules governing the use of resources - respect, an obligation to share. It is dynamic, cumulative and stable. It is truth. Traditional knowledge is a way of life -wisdom is using traditional knowledge in good ways. It is using the heart and the head together. It comes from the spirit in order to survive. It gives credibility to the people. Comparisons between indigenous and scientific knowledge The interest to compare scientific and traditional knowledge comes from collecting traditional knowledge without the contextual elements. For example, Native people have a far richer and more subtle understanding of the characteristics of ice and snow than do non-indigenous people. In fact, some Native classification is available only by virtue of its relationship to human activities and feelings. These comparisons sometimes incorrectly lead science practitioners to trivialize traditional understanding. For many indigenous people today, the communication of traditional knowledge is hampered by competition from other cultures that capture the imagination of the young. They are bombarded by technology that teaches them non-indigenous ways and limits the capacity of elders to pass on traditional knowledge to the young. As the elders die, the full richness of tradition is diminished, because some of it has not been passed on and so is lost. It is important therefore to find ways of preserving this knowledge. In this video, we understood the meaning and definition of Traditional knowledge and the comparison between indigenous knowledge and scientific knowledge and in the next video, let us understand the Comparisons between traditional and scientific knowledge with respect to its style and with respect to its use. Thank you Learners  Essence of Traditional Knowledge Dr.Binu Sahayam D Assistant Professor, SSL Vellore Institute of Technology, Chennai Hello learners. Welcome to the Indigenous Knowledge session. In this session, we will talk about indigenous knowledge and its definition, characteristics of indigenous knowledge, the significance of indigenous knowledge, the importance of indigenous knowledge, challenges faced, and the difference between indigenous knowledge and western knowledge. Indigenous knowledge or IK refers to the skills, knowledge, and beliefs utilized by native people to survive in a given geographic region. The knowledge accumulated by indigenous or local communities over generations living in a specific environment can also be broadly construed as indigenous knowledge or IK. The term encompasses all forms of knowledge, technologies, skills, practices, and beliefs that assist the community in creating stable livelihoods within their respective environments. Let’s see the definition of indigenous knowledge. Indigenous knowledge can be defined as "A body of knowledge built up by a group of people through generations of living in close contact with nature" (Johnson, 1992). As per UN, the term "Indigenous" is defined as "Groups of people whose social, cultural and economic conditions distinguish them from other sections of the national communities, and whose status is regulated wholly or partially by their own customs or traditions or by special laws or regulations. People in independent countries who are regarded as indigenous are considered as descent people who inhabited geographical region to which belongs, at the time of colonization or the establishment of present state boundaries". Most people think of indigenous knowledge as outdated, backwards, static, or 'unchanging.' Indigenous people are the first settlers in a specific location, who have a different culture and belief system example, the local Tribal, Native, First, or Aboriginal populations. It has led to widespread use of the term local knowledge, which refers to any knowledge possessed by a group that lived off the land for a long period in a particular area. In this approach, it is not necessary to understand whether the people in question are the original inhabitants of an area. What is important is to identify how people - aboriginal or non-aboriginal - in a particular region view and interact with their  environment, so that their knowledge can be mobilized for the design of effective interventions. So, what are the characteristics of indigenous knowledge? Its fundamental principles are dynamic, methodical, and universal. The transmission occurs verbally rather than in writing. It is based on teachings and knowledge experience that are passed down from generation to generation. It is holistic in nature. It can give people credibility. It is based on observational experience and may be beneficial for decision making. It governs the use of resources. It is a way of living for their survival. It is associated with the sustainable use of native resources. Examines the holistic understanding of biological and human systems. Let’s now look at the significance of indigenous knowledge.  The survival of every human being depends on the wholeness of nature and the elements it contains.  It describes the specific circumstances of communities in connection to the environment and offers practical solutions to people's issues.  It explains how cultural behaviours resulted from human adaptation to their environment  Knowledge about 'Indigenous or Traditional knowledge' is a mix of simple but applied education, economics, politics, religion, sciences, and technologies found in indigenous societies.  It is fundamental knowledge, but it provides a rich foundation for the development of modern society. So, why indigenous knowledge is important? Indigenous knowledge is given for local empowerment and development, increasing self-sufficiency and strengthening self-determination.  The indigenous population can also contribute valuable information regarding how to manage the local environment.  Indigenous knowledge offers local communities, particularly the marginalized, with problem-solving solutions.  Indigenous knowledge on development challenges is an important component of global knowledge.  Indigenous knowledge is a valuable resource that is less utilized in the development process.  Using indigenous wisdom to obtain a deeper understanding of your surroundings might be beneficial. Let’s look at the challenges faced in using indigenous knowledge.  Lack of adequate management  Lack of documentation  Understanding their knowledge is eroding  Less importance is given to indigenous knowledge Commercialisation and economic instability can destroy indigenous knowledge So, how indigenous knowledge is different from western knowledge. Let’s see.  Indigenous knowledge is a visual representation of oral knowledge whereas, western knowledge is based on written words.  Indigenous knowledge is learning by doing and experiencing whereas, western knowledge is through formal education.  Indigenous knowledge has a holistic approach whereas, western knowledge has a reductionist approach.  Indigenous knowledge is subjective and western knowledge is objective.  Indigenous knowledge sharing is through storytelling whereas, western knowledge is through a didactic approach. With this, we come towards the end of our session. In today’s session, we discussed about indigenous knowledge and its definition, characteristics of indigenous knowledge, the significance of indigenous knowledge, the importance of indigenous knowledge, challenges faced, and the difference between indigenous knowledge and western knowledge. I hope you would have got a fair understanding of the essence of indigenous knowledge Thank you and Happy Learning! Thank you Learners  Studies and Reviews of Traditional Knowledge We will discuss about the related studies in Traditional Knowledge, between the years 2000 Traditional knowledge of Kani tribals in Kouthalai of Tirunelveli hills, Tamil Name of the Research Title Nadu, India Author name M.Ayyanar and S.Ignacimuthu Year of the study 2005 To study the importance of medicinal plants in the primary health Objectives care of the people. Ethno botanical survey Methodology and 2021 Findings This study revealed that medicinal plants still play a vital role in t he primary healthcare of the people. Summary Traditional medicines have the potential to form the basis of phar maceutical drugs for the treatment of a range of diseases. Thus, the loss of these potentially valuable genetic resources ultim ately affects the whole society. The information gathered from the tribals is useful for further rese archers in the field of ethnobotany, taxonomy and pharmacology. This study offers a model for studying the relationship between pl ants and people, within the context of traditional medical system.  Conservation of the orange- Name of the Research bellied Himalayan squirrel Dremomys lokriah using a tradition al knowledge system: a case study from Arunachal Pradesh, Ind Title ia Mihin Dollo, G.V. Gopi, Karthik Teegalapalli and Kripaljyoti Author name Mazumdar Year of the study 2010 To report on the socio- ecological values of D. lokriah and the traditional hunting syste Objectives m, and conservation initiatives implemented by the Apatani co mmunity to conserve the species Methodology Case Study Summary It is an opportunity for government agencies and conservatio nists to merge a traditional knowledge system with modern c onservation methods and strengthen participatory conservatio n management. Name of the Rese Phytotherapy and traditional knowledge of tribal communities of Mayurbhanj arch Title district, Orissa, India Author name S. K. Panda , S. D. Rout , N. Mishra and T. Panda Year of the study 2011 To know the knowledge and usage of herbal medicine for the treatment of vari Objectives ous ailments among tribes. Methodology Field Survey Findings The results have revealed that 112 plant species were used for medicinal pu rposes in the surveyed area. The inventoried species comprise 62 families. The most important medicin al families were: Asteraceae, Euphorbiaceae, Fabaceae, Rutaceae, Solanace ae and Zingiberaceae Summary The indigenous phototherapy of tribes can provide a useful alternative to co nventional human health care. Traditional knowledge system is important for modern societies, not only b ecause traditional knowledge itself is a valuable aspect of cultural heritage and should be protected in its own right, but also because of its great value in modern development, especially regarding the sustainable use of forests, ecosystem services and management. It is an urgent task to record the posterity, whatever is valuable in the traditi on of the tribes, their way of life and their knowledge of the plants before al l these disappear. Name of the Rese Traditional Knowledge Protection: An Indian Prospective arch Title Author name Mangala Hirwade and Anil Hirwade Year of the study 2012 To analyse the features of indigenous knowledge, protection of traditional Objectives knowledge in India and its benefits, biopiracy issues, and Indian experienc e Methodology Qualitative Summary India has experienced various initiatives regarding the protection of tradi tional knowledge under intellectual property rights, which is a major ste p to curb biopiracy and in many of these cases the country had to fight fo r revocation of the granted patents which involved huge costs and time. India has taken misappropriations of its traditional knowledge by develo ped countries through patenting system. Name of the Resea Studies on Traditional Knowledge of Ethnomedicinal Plants in Jawala rch Title mukhi, Himachal Pradesh, India Sharma Arti, Santvan Virender Kumar , Sharma Pooja and Chandel Sa Author name ngeeta Year of the study 2014 To explore traditional medicinal knowledge of plants of Jawalamukhi s Objectives hakti peeth, Himachal Pradesh. Methodology Ethnobotanical survey Findings Found that 25 different plants belonging to 20 families are used to tre at various diseases. The present study shows that Jawalamukhi region is rich with valuabl Summary e medicinal flora and people are enriched with folk traditional knowl edge about these herbs. Though this knowledge is passing orally from one generation to anot her but it has not been documented yet. So documentation of this kno wledge is necessary for safeguarding this valuable information for th e well being of future generation. All these plants need to be evaluated through phyto and pharmaco in vestigation to discover their potentiality as drugs. The present study will provide new incentive to the traditional system of healthcare and also will be helpful for researcher and pharmaceuti cal industries to find out the other uses of plants which would be help ful to modern healthcare system. Name of the Rese Traditional knowledge on poisonous plants of Udhampur district of Ja arch Title mmu and Kashmir, India Author name Harpreet Bhatiaa R.K.Manhas Kewal Kumar & Rani Magotra Year of the study 2014  To collect and systematically document the traditional knowledge of p Objectives oisonous plants of Udhampur District for the benefit of humanity befo re it is entombed forever. Methodology Qualititaive and Quantitative Findings A total of 90 toxic plants were identified from the study site. Most d ominant toxic families were Fabaceae, Asteraceae, Solanaceae, Apo cynaceae and Euphorbiaceae. Further phytochemical and pharmacological studies are required to ascertain the toxic components of the poisonous plants, so that they Summary may be utilised for the betterment of future generations. Name of the Rese Protection of Traditional Knowledge and Plant Intellectual Property arch Title Rights: Emerging Challenges and Issues in India Author name Sanjit Kumar Chakraborty Year of the study 2017 Objectives Methodology Qualitative Summary Adequate and effective steps must be taken to promote the develop ment, towards the protection of traditional knowledge, including th e resolution of underlying issues such as land rights and the need t o respect and maintain the lifestyles of local and indigenous comm unities in their suitable environment. Name of the Res Traditional Knowledge and its Efficacy in Economic Growth earch Title Author name MS. SOFIA KHATUN AND MRS. DEEPA RANI SALIAN Year of the study 2020  To develop a global legal instrument for helping members outside the l Objectives ocal community threshold to access traditional knowledge Methodology Qualitative Findings Both positive as well as defensive IPR systems were used for protecti ng the traditional knowledge of indigenous people in India. Technical advice is required to be circulated among community mem Summary bers such that they are able to make effective utilization of systems of IPR. The representatives of the community members should be encourag ed by local state authorities so that they take more active participation in annual and q uarterly meetings held by the WIPO agency. The members of the WIPO agency should provide assistance to stre ngthen and develop regional and national systems for safeguarding traditional knowledge. The tools for the protection of traditional knowledge include the imposition of laws, re gulatory policies, practical instruments and the use of information systems. There is also a need for providing “hands- on training” system for the management of “intellectual property rights” and boosting interests of the people for d ocumenting traditional cultural manifestations and knowledge.  Zootherapeutic uses of animals and their parts: an important element of Name of the Rese the traditional knowledge of the Tangsa and Wancho of eastern Arunac arch Title hal Pradesh, North-East India Author name Salomi Jugli, Jharna Chakravorty & Victor Benno Meyer-Rochow Year of the study 2020 To investigate zootherapeutic uses among two tribes who inhabit differ Objectives ent areas of North-East India: the Tangsa and the Wancho. Methodology Field Survey from May 2015 to March 2016 Findings Researchers found that the Tangsa make greater use of animals than Wancho and use predominantly a variety of mammals (47%) followe d by birds (16%) of the 55 species of animals considered therapeutic by them. The Wancho informed us of using 20 species, of which birds and thei r products account for 37%, while mammals and insects feature in 26 % and 21%, respectively. The tribal people must understand that preserving their traditional kn owledge of animals and their products to treat diseases and disorders depends on the availability of the raw material, i.e. the animals. Summary To discourage needless killing of the latter and help tribal people to a dopt an attitude that sees modern and traditional therapies side by sid e, effectively substituting each other, is a challenge of the future that needs to be met. Declaring certain species, threatened by extinction, taboo by elders o r influential community leaders (cf., Meyer- Rochow 2009) rather than increasing fines could also help in this cont ext. Name of the Rese Traditional Knowledge of the Utilization of Edible Insects in Nagalan arch Title d, North-East India Author name Lobeno Mozhui,L.N. Kakati ,Patricia Kiewhuo and Sapu Changkija Year of the study 2020  To document the existing knowledge of entomophagy in the region, e Objectives mphasizing the currently most consumed insects in view of their mark eting potential as possible future food items. Methodology Quantitative Assessment was done with the help of semi- structured questionnaires, which mentioned a total of 106 insect spe Findings cies representing 32 families and 9 orders that were considered as h ealth foods by the local ethnic groups. The present study, not only raises awareness among the tribal comm Summary unities but also develops deep interest amongst policy makers and st ake holders of the potential growth of the edible insect sector and th ereby to promote funding into edible insect research and developme nt. We believe that mass production, proper commercialization, and ma rketing strategies can improve livelihoods of tribal communities (es pecially the womenfolk) living in remote villages. Name of the R A Primer to Traditional Knowledge Protection in India: The Road Ahead esearch Title Author name Shambhu Prasad Chakrabarty and Ravneet Kaur Year of the stu 2021 dy To deliberate about indigenous peoples (of India) and their natural conservatio Objectives n practices through the lens of Intellectual Property Rights The methodology adopted in this paper incorporates drawing of conclusion usi ng cross- Methodology country analysis for solutions to address the challenges brought forth by this co mplicated position. Findings Summary It is imperative to state that the limited Traditional Knowledge and Traditi onal Cultural Expressions still left amongst the people, mostly the elderly r equires urgent protection and documentation. The young must be assured of the economic viability of their ancestral kno wledge. Special measures should be taken to promote these TK and TCEs and retro spectively protect the rights of these peoples with a robust legal framework to implement benefit sharing.  Essence of Traditional Knowledge Dr.V.Vijayalakshmi Associate Professor, SSL Vellore Institute of Technology, Chennai In the last video, we learnt about the definition and meaning of traditional knowledge and in this video, we will learn the comparison between Traditional Knowledge and Scientific Knowledge Let us compare traditional and scientific knowledge with respect to its styles Indigenous Knowledge Scientific Knowledge assumed to be the truth assumed to be a best approximation sacred and secular together secular only teaching through storytelling didactic learning by doing and learning by formal education experiencing oral or visual written integrated, based on a whole analytical, based on subsets of the system whole intuitive model- or hypothesis-based holistic reductionist subjective objective experiential positivist Similarly let us learn the comparison between traditional and scientific knowledge in use Indigenous Knowledge Scientific Knowledge lengthy acquisition rapid acquisition long-term wisdom short-term prediction powerful prediction in local areas powerful predictability in natural principles weak in predictive principles in weak in local areas of knowledge distant areas models based on cycles linear modeling as first approximation explanations based on examples, explanations bases on hypothesis, anecdotes, parables theories, laws Classification: Classification:  a mix of ecological and  based on phylogenic use relationships  non-hierachical  hierarchical differentiation differentiation  excludes the supernatural  includes everything natural and supernatural I hope in this video, you were able to understand the comparison between Traditional Knowledge and Scientific Knowledge. Thank you Learners. Hello Learners, In this session let us discuss on the Traditional Medicine and Herbal Healing Practices in India Traditional Medicine Do you all know what is traditional medicine Are we using any herbal medicine in the present day Do we know the origin and development of medicine in India Rig-Veda, considered as one of the oldest treatises of human knowledge which was created during 4500 BC to 1600 BC. It is supposed as the ancient repository that stated about therapeutic usages of plants of the Indian subcontinent Introduction India has a rich traditional knowledge and heritage of herbal medicine. India is the largest producer of medicinal herbs and is called as botanical garden of the world. But due to easy availability and fast action conventional allopathic medicines are used in large scale, the significance of traditional medicines went down. In recent times due to side effects and growing cost of allopathic medicine, people are now looking for alternative medicines, herbal medicines being one of them. Summary of Literature Traditional medicine particularly herbal medicine considered as a major healthcare provider around the globe particularly in rural and remote areas. A large section of people depends on such medicine for their primary healthcare. Indian traditional medicine or medicinal plants are also considered as a vital source of new drug. Mainstreaming of such medicine is important for the people. Several steps have been taken in India to promote such medicine and to integrate them with the modern medicine. Evidence of ancient medicinal systems in India were traced back at the time of the Indus valley civilization. Archeological evidence of Harappa and Mohanjodaro suggested the presence of a traditional medicinal system at that time. It was interpreted that use of plants, animals and mineral based drugs were done by Indus people. The contribution of plants, as raw material for making medical formulations, is significant in the Indian systems of medicine, and over 6,500 species of plants are known to occur in India those are used by various streams of traditional health care practitioners. The traditional system of medicine in India functions through two major streams – the local health tradition and the classical scientific system of medicine. The carriers of local health care system are millions of people who cure diseases at home as a birth attendant, bonesetters, and practitioners of snake bite treatment, jaundice treatment etc. The classical scientific system of medicine has evolved with the philosophical  explanation and is expressed in various manuscripts. Such system of medicine exists in the name of Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha and Tibetan Ayurvedic system of medicine The Ayurvedic system of medicine is an age-old system of therapy, which is associated with the Vedic civilization in India. The oldest existing literature on this form of treatment is mentioned in Rigveda around 4500-1600 B.C. Ayurveda is a holistic system of treatment, which is amalgamation of use of food, medicine and other measures like exercise and behavior (Kala, 2006a; Katiyar, 2006). Life in Ayurveda is conceived as the union of body, senses, mind and soul. Ayurveda regards human body is a composition of five basic elements namely, earth, water, fire, air and vacuum (ether), and any illness is considered the result of absence of a balanced state of the total body matrix. The disease is diagnosed by examining the general physical condition of the patient and pulse reading, along with examining urine, excreta, eyes, tongue, skin, and auditory functions. Once disease is diagnosed, the treatment measures involve use of medicines, specific diet and prescribed routine activity Unani system of medicine The Unani system of medicine was originated in Greece and later introduced in India by Arab and Persians. Like Ayurvedic system, the Unani system of medicine prescribes daily diet quantity to patient and also depends on whole drug therapy in which the active principle of drug is not isolated (Ansari, 2006). Unani medicine assumes that the drugs possess their own temperament to act. They may be hot, cold, moist and dry. Similarly, each individual possesses his own temperament, physical structure, self-defense mechanism and reaction to environmental factors. The medicine is thus prescribed based on such factors of the person undergoing the treatment (Rais, 1986; Ahmad, 1992). Siddha medical system The Siddha medical system is originated in southern India during 10th to 15th century and like most of the traditional systems of medicine it follows pulse reading to diagnose the ailments (Daniel, 1984). In Siddha, like Ayurveda, any ailment in human body is thought a result of imbalance of three humors – bile (pitta), wind (vayu) and phlegm (kaph). This system of medicine has developed and accumulated a rich treasure of therapeutic knowledge in which use of metals and minerals is often prescribed (http://indianmedicine.nic.in/). It also emphasizes on individualistic approach of treatment as it takes into account the age, sex, habitat, appetite, mental frame, physical condition and surrounding environmental of the patient. Tibetan medical system Tibetan medical system is flourished in the trans-Himalayan region, especially in Tibet, Ladakh and Lahaul-Spiti where the earlier inhabitants used to practice shamanism under the name Ban (Dash, 1994; Kala, 2003). In due course of time, Bauddha Bhiksus (monks) introduced the knowledge of Ayurveda, and propagated it among their disciples in Ladakh, Lahaul-Spiti, Tibet and wherever they preached. This system of medicine follows the procedure of pulse reading, and the number of  pulse beats during one respiratory cycle indicates the status of health. Plant forms major ingredient in Tibetan medicine, besides animal products, minerals and salts (Kala, 2005, 2006b). Role of plants in ISM Wide arrays of plant species are used in traditional system of health care in India. Over 6,500 species of plants are known to occur in India those are used by various streams of traditional health care practitioners. Approximately 2000 medicinal plant species are used alone in Ayurvedic system of medicine, which is followed by Siddha (1121), Unani (751), Homeopathy (482) and Tibetan (337). The number of people involved in the traditional health care system is quite impressive in India. About 7,00,000 practitioners of Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani, Yoga, Naturopathy and Homeopathy are registered in the Indian Systems of Medicine. And a sizeable number of practitioners in rural and far-flung areas are not yet registered. Family traditions and cultural preferences also make people to own, decide and prefer various health care systems. In India, medicinal plants have strong acceptance in religious activities, where the plants are worshiped in the form of various gods, goddesses and local deities Different parts of medicinal plants were used as medicine by the local traditional healers. Among the different plant parts, the leaves were most frequently used for the treatment of diseases followed by whole plant parts, fruit, stem, root, stem and root bark, seed, flower and latex. The methods of preparation fall into four categories, viz.: plant parts applied as a paste (38%), juice extracted from the fresh plant parts (24%), powder made from fresh or dried plant parts (20%), some fresh plant parts (6%), and decoction (12%). External applications (mostly for skin diseases, snake bites and wounds) and internal consumption of the preparations were involved in the treatment of diseases.  Herbs and their healing practices Let’s learn of few herbs and its healing practices Medicinal plants such as Aloe, Tulsi, Neem, Turmeric and Ginger cure several common ailments. These are considered as home remedies in many parts of the country. It is known fact that lots of consumers are using Basil (Tulsi) for making medicines, black tea, in pooja and other activities in their day-to-day life Herbs such as black pepper, cinnamon, myrrh, aloe, sandalwood, ginseng, red clover, burdock, bayberry, and safflower are used to heal wounds, sores and boils. Many herbs are used as blood purifiers to alter or change a long-standing condition by eliminating the metabolic toxins. These are also known as 'blood cleansers'. Certain herbs improve the immunity of the person, thereby reducing conditions such as fever. Some herbs are also having antibiotic properties. Turmeric is useful in inhibiting the growth of germs, harmful microbes and bacteria. Turmeric is widely used as a home remedy to heal cut and wounds. Some herbs are used to neutralize the acid produced by the stomach. Herbs such as marshmallow root and leaf. They serve as antacids. The healthy gastric acid needed for proper digestion is retained by such herbs. Indian sages were known to have remedies from plants which act against poisons from animals and snake bites. Herbs like Cardamom and Coriander are renowned for their appetizing qualities. Other aromatic herbs such as peppermint, cloves and turmeric add a pleasant aroma to the food, thereby increasing the taste of the meal. Ginger and cloves are used in certain cough syrups. They are known for their expectorant property, which promotes the thinning and ejection of mucus from the lungs, trachea and bronchi. Eucalyptus, Cardamom, Wild cherry and cloves are also expectorants. Herbs such as Chamomile, Calamus, Ajwain, Basil, Cardamom, Chrysanthemum, Coriander, Fennel, Peppermint and Spearmint, Cinnamon, Ginger and Turmeric are helpful in promoting good blood circulation. Therefore, they are used as cardiac stimulants. Certain aromatic plants such as Aloe, Golden seal, Barberry and Chirayata are used as mild tonics. The bitter taste of such plants reduces toxins in blood. They are helpful in destroying infection as well. A wide variety of herbs including Giloe, Golden seal, Aloe and Barberry are used as tonics. They can also be nutritive and rejuvenate a healthy as well as diseased individual. Honey, turmeric, marshmallow and liquorice can effectively treat a fresh cut and wound. They are termed as vulnerary herbs. Hello Learners In this session, let us discuss on the Yoga and Pranayama Thousands of years ago yoga originated in India, and in present day and age, an alarming awareness was observed in health and natural remedies among people by yoga and pranayama which has been proven an effective method for improving health in addition to prevention and management of diseases. With increasing scientific research in yoga, its therapeutic aspects are also being explored. Yoga is reported to reduce stress and anxiety, improves autonomic functions by triggering neurohormonal mechanisms by the suppression of sympathetic activity, and even, now-a-days, several reports suggested yoga is beneficial for physical health of cancer patients. Such global recognition of yoga also testifies to India's growing cultural influence. Yoga is an ancient discipline designed to bring balance and health to the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual dimensions of the individual. It is long popular practice in India that has become increasingly more common in Western society. “Yoga” means union of our individual consciousness with the Universal Divine Consciousness in a super-conscious state known as Samadhi. The first book of humankind, Rigveda, mentions about yogic meditation by the wise, while Yajurveda exhorts us to practice yoga for enhancing mental health, physical strength, and prosperity. Upanishads are replete with yogic concepts. In addition, yoga-related terms like pranayama and samadhi occur repeatedly in Bhagavad-Gita. Ancient Indian rishis understood that performing Raja-yoga (procedure of concentration to liberate soul or atma from the bondage of maya into paramatma) always need a healthy body. So, they developed “Hatha yoga,” which includes asana, mudra, pranayama, etc. “Gharanda samhita” said there were 84 lakh asanas from which 16 000 were best and only about 300 are popular. “Hathayoga-pradipika” again differentiates all asanas into four basic classes – sidhyasana, padmasana, sinhasana, and vadrasana. Besides, asana may be of two types – dhyanasana (a posture keeps spinal cord free and center of gravity shifts to other part like ribs) and shasthyasana (to get healthy body). Elementary courses of hatha yoga focus on physical exercises consisting of various postures and breathing techniques. A growing body of research evidence supports the belief that certain yoga techniques may improve physical and mental health through down-regulation of the hypothalamo pituitary adrenal (HPA) axis and the sympathetic nervous system. The stress and stress-induced disorders like hypertension and angina are fast growing epidemics and bane of “modern” society. The holistic science of yoga is the best method for prevention as well as management of stress and stress-induced disorders Regardless of the pathophysiologic pathway, yoga has been shown to have immediate psychological effects: decreasing anxiety and increasing feelings of emotional, social, and spiritual well-being. Several literature reviews have been conducted that examined the impact of yoga on specific health conditions including cardiovascular disease metabolic syndrome, diabetes, cancer, and anxiety ASTHANGA YOGA Yoga (asthanga) is often depicted metaphorically as a tree and comprises eight aspects, or “limbs” [Patanjali codified the ancient marvel of yoga as asthanga which is one of the six schools of Indian philosophy and is known as Yoga Darshan : yama (universal ethics), niyama (individual ethics), asana (physical postures), pranayama (breath control), pratyahara (control of the senses), dharana (concentration), dyana (meditation), and samadhi (bliss). Each limb is connected with the whole, in the same way that bodily limbs are all connected. If someone pulls the body by the leg, the rest of the body will automatically follow. In the same way, when one pulls one of the eight limbs of yoga, the others will naturally come. 1.Yamas The yamas can be thought of as the ethical restraints that are necessary for achieving harmony with other beings. The first limb of Patanjali’s eight limbs of yoga is Universal Principals or Yamas and this includes five principles Ahimsa (Non-Violence) Satya (Truth) Asteya (Non-Stealing) Brahmacharya (Celibacy) Aparigraha (Non- Accumulation) 2. Niyamas – Observances As with the universal principles or yamas, there are five niyamas. The niyamas are the actions necessary for achieving balance within oneself S a u c a (Cleanliness) Santosa (Contentment) Tapas (Forbearance of Opposites/ Perseverance) Svadhyaya (Self-study) Ishvara Pranidhana (Devotion to the Divine) 3. Asanas -Posture Asanas are the physical positions or postures of yoga. Asana should be done with three qualities: steadiness, comfort, and a spirit of joy. Through the practice of asana one naturally comes to experience and be in harmony with infinity. Asanas purify the body and mind, when practiced with full awareness; leave you with a feeling of expansion and lightness. Each asana works to open channels of energy in the body and in so doing releases blockages and tension which are held in the physical, mental, and emotional bodies. There are two types of asanas: dynamic and static. Static asanas are those that are held for a period of time with no movement. The body remains as still as possible. These asanas have a powerful effect on the life force (prana) and mental bodies, gently massaging the internal organs, glands, and muscles and relaxing the nerves, bringing tranquility to the mind. Dynamic asanas, which are more energetic, speed up the  circulation and loosen the muscles and joints, releasing energy blocks and removing stagnant blood from different parts of the body. 4. Pranayama Pranayama is not, as many think, something about the breath; breath, indeed, has very little to do with it, if anything. Breathing is only one of the many exercises through which we get to the real Pranayama. Prana, a word often used in yoga, is the vital life- force of life. When the prana in the body is low, one tends to be more lethargic, dull, and unenthusiastic. Toxins then accumulate in these areas and pain, stiffness or disease set in. Through the practice of yoga, prana begins to flow, allowing toxins to be released and removed. On the other hand, the body is just a gross form of the mind. They are not the separate entities often one thinks of them as and every mental knot has a corresponding physical knot in the body and vice versa. The aim of yogic practices is to release these knots and to connect us with the joy, love, and creativity, integrating, and harmonizing the body and mind. 5. Pratyahara – Sense withdrawal The word ahara means “nourishment”; pratyahara translates as “to withdraw oneself from that which nourishes the senses.” By quieting the senses and taking the mind inwards one can unite with the Self. Pratyahara means drawing back or retreat. In yoga, the term pratyahara implies withdrawal of the senses from attachment to external objects. It can then be seen as the practice of non-attachment to sensory distractions as one constantly returns to the path of self-realization and achievement of internal peace 6. Dharana – Concentration and cultivating inner perceptual awareness Dharma means “immovable concentration of the mind.” The essential idea is to hold the concentration or focus of attention in one direction. When the body has been tempered by asanas, when the mind has been refined by the fire of pranayama and when the senses have been brought under control by pratyahara, the sadhaka (seeker) reaches the sixth stage, dharana. Here he is concentrated wholly on a single point or on a task in which he is completely engrossed. The mind has to be stilled in order to achieve this state of complete absorption. 7. Dynana - Meditation Dynana or meditation is all about just “being.” Meditation takes us back to that space of “being” from where deep rest can be experienced and enormous energy and vitality gained. Whilst effort is required to build the body, for example one has to work out either at the gym or by doing various exercises and sports; it is quite the opposite with the mind. The mind requires effortlessness in order to meditate. The less effort that is applied in meditation, the deeper the meditation will be. To truly understand meditation, it has to be experienced personally and like anything, the benefits can only be experienced through dedicated practice and self-discipline. 8. Samadhi - Contemplation According to Patanajali, “losing consciousness of the body, breath, mind, intelligence, and ego” and residing in a state of peace and bliss in which wisdom, humility and simplicity shine through, one is in a state of samadhi. Enlightened beings, which are permanently in a state of samadhi, have the ability to illuminate all those who come to him in their search for truth. It is clear that at the beginning of the 21st century, by crossing the threshold from traditional spiritual discipline to modern medical treatment and enriched with scholarly evidence, yoga gets scientific justification as a useful practice for maintaining health. It is one of the very few traditional disciplines that has gone through this exam and gained confirmation. It seems that yoga has come full circle by providing the techniques for living a meaningful and purposeful life, which are important both from a medical and spiritual point of view. Moreover, through aspirations of health benefits, yoga has focused the individual on the spiritual aspect of existence. So, learn yoga, Stay healthy Thank you, learners, for listening this session  3. Indian Philosophy Hello everyone, Today in this session, we will discuss about Indian Philosophy and Significance of Sanskrit Language Indian Philosophy Philosophy literally means the love of knowledge or more precisely, the love of wisdom. Like all other living beings, man struggles for existence. But while the lower beings struggle more or less blindly without any conscious plan and purpose, and work by instinct, man uses the superior gift of his intellect to understand the conditions and meaning of the struggle and to devise plans and instruments to ensure success. He wishes to lead his life in the light of his knowledge of himself and the world, taking into consideration not merely the immediate results of his actions, but even their far- reaching consequences. Desire for knowledge springs, therefore, from the rational nature of man. Philosophy is an attempt to satisfy this very reasonable desire. It is not, therefore, a mere luxury, but a necessity He wishes to lead his life in the light of his knowledge of himself and the world, taking into consideration not merely the immediate results of his actions, but even their far- reaching consequences. Desire for knowledge springs, therefore, from the rational nature of man. Philosophy is an attempt to satisfy this very reasonable desire. It is not, therefore, a mere luxury, but a necessity As philosophy aims at the knowledge of truth, it is termed in Indian literature, 'the vision” Every Indian school holds, in its own way, that there can be a direct realization of truth (tattvadarsana). Ever since human beings have invented scripts, writing has reflected the culture, lifestyle, society and the polity of contemporary society. In the process, each culture evolved its own language and created a huge literary base. This literary base of a civilization tells us about the evolution of each of its languages and culture through the span of centuries. Sanskrit is the mother of many Indian languages. The Vedas, Upanishads, Puranas and Dharmasutras are all written in Sanskrit. There is also a variety of secular and regional literature. By reading about the languages and literature created in the past, we shall be able to understand our civilization better and appreciate the diversity and richness of our culture.  All this was possible because of the language that developed during that time., Sanskrit which is the most ancient language of our country The ancient period of Indian philosophy is the period of the composition of Vedas and the Upaniṣads. The earliest Indian religious texts are the Vedas. The main philosophical themes that the Upaniṣads explore are the nature of the Absolute (Brahman) as the ground of being and the importance of knowledge of Brahman as the key to liberation. Vedas and Upanishads Now let’s know about Vedas The Vedas are the earliest known literature in India. The Vedas were written in Sanskrit and were handed down orally from one generation to the other. The word ‘Veda’ literally means knowledge. In Hindu culture, Vedas are considered as eternal and divine revelations. They treat the whole world as one human family Vasudev Kutumbakam There are four Vedas, Rig Veda, Yajur Veda, Sama Veda and Atharva Veda. Each Veda consists of the Brahmanas, the Upanishads and the Aranyakas. First let’s have a brief understanding of four vedas. Rig Veda The Rig Veda is the earliest of the Vedas. It is a collection of 1028 hymns in Vedic Sanskrit. Many of these are beautiful descriptions of nature. The prayers are largely for seeking worldly prosperity. It is believed that these recitations are the natural outpouring of Vedic rishis experiencing a mentally transcendental stage. Some of the well-known rishis are Vasistha, Gautama, Gritasamada, Vamadeva, Vishvamitra and Atri. The prominent gods of the Rig Veda are Indra, Agni, Varun, Rudra, Aditya, Vayu, Aditi and the Ashwini twins. Some of the prominent goddesses are Usha – the goddess of dawn, Vak - the goddess of speech and Prithvi - the goddess of earth. Yajur Veda Yajur means sacrifice or worship. This Veda is concerned mostly with rites and mantras of different sacrifices. It gives directions for the performance of the yajnas. It has both poetic and prose renderings. Being a treatise on rituals, it is the most popular of the four Vedas. There are two major branches of Yajur Veda, namely Shukla and Krishna Yajur Veda i.e., Vajasaneyi Samhita and Taitriya Samhita. This text reflects on the social and religious condition of India at that time. Sama Veda Sama means melody or songs. This Veda consists of 16,000 ragas and raginis or musical notes. Out of total 1875 verses only 75 are original and others are from the Rig Veda. The Sama Veda prescribes the tunes for the recitation of the hymns of the Rig Veda. It may be called the book of Chants (Saman). This book is an evidence of the development of Indian music during this period. Atharva Veda The Atharva Veda is also known as the Brahma Veda. It contains treatment for ninety-nine diseases. The source of this Veda is traced to two rishis called Atharvah and Angiras. The Atharva Veda is of immense value as it represents the religious ideas at an early period of civilization. This book gives detailed information about the family, social and political life of later Vedic period. Brahmanas and Aranyakas After the four Vedas, a number of works called the Brahmanas were developed. These books gave a detailed explanation of Vedic rituals and instructions and deal with the science of sacrifice. The latter portions of the Brahmanas were called the Aranyakas while the final parts of the Aranyakas are philosophic books named Upanishads which belong to the later stage of the Brahmana literature. Each of the four Vedas have their own Brahmana books.  The Arayankas deal with soul, birth and death and life beyond it. These were studied and taught by men in Vanprastha i.e. Munis and the inhabitants living inside the forests. All these works were in Sanskrit. Initially they were handed down orally and were put to writing much later. Upanishad The word Upanishad is derived from upa (nearby), and nishad (to sit-down), that is, “sitting down near”. Groups of pupils sit near the Guru to learn from him in the Guru shishya parampara or tradition. The Upanishads mark the culmination of Indian thought and are the final parts of the Vedas. As the Upanishads contain abstract and difficult discussions of ultimate philosophical problems, they were taught to the pupils at the end. That is why they are called the end of Vedas. Thank you, learners. In this session, I hope you learnt an introduction to Indian Philosophy, significance of Sanskrit languages, brief understanding on 4 vedas and upanishads. Next session we will know about the great Epics of our country, Ramayana and Mahabaratha Thank you Indian Science and Technology heritage The Indian Civilization has a long recorded history of scientific culture that goes back to more than 5000 years. This gallery portrays the rich contributions of ancient India in science and technology. Indians developed one of the earliest written scripts (the Indus Scripts), built urban towns, with residential complexes and wastewater systems, way back in 2500 BC. Ancient Indians produced the Delhi Iron Pillar that has remained rust less for more than 500 years. They discovered the zero and were the first to use decimal place value number system way back in 500 AD. Cotton Gin, an Indian invention, was the fore runner of all geared machines that subsequently paved the way for the west to bring about an industrial revolution. Indians also created enduring architectural constructs that have become eternal world heritages. They smelted zinc, which requires precise metallurgical knowledge, on industrial scale and produced thousands of tons of zinc over hundreds of years. Science and Technology in India- a time line - The Indian Civilization has a long recorded history of scientific culture that goes back to more than 5000 years. This gallery portrays the rich contributions of ancient India in science and technology. Indians developed one of the earliest written scripts (the Indus Scripts), built urban towns, with residential complexes and wastewater systems, way back in 2500 BC Technology Traditions of Indus valley - This exhibit is controlled by CPU. This exhibit gives the idea of the Indus valley civilization at its peak during 2600BC to 1900 BC. Harappans the World’s first town planners - In this exhibit we can study that Harappas were the first to adopt systematic town planning. The exhibit consists of the various models collected during excavation. Glimpses of Harappan technology - In this exhibit the technological traditions of Harappans in ceramics, pottery, refined personal ornaments, metallurgy, steatite, agate, and shell ornaments. Shell bangle making - This exhibit is a model showing the making of bangles with help of the shells. Textiles- Indian origin - It is pointed by the scholars that the Harappans were the first to grow the cotton and had established Cotton Empire. Introduction - An attempt is made with this part of the exhibit to show case the ancient Indian independent contributions in science. Specially focusing on some important fields of science, mathematics, medicines etc. Triguna - The gunas though assuming infinite diversity of forms and powers can neither be created nor destroyed. The idea of conservation of matter was studied long back in India. Tanmatra - This exhibit shows about the five subtle infra atomic particles named as tanmatras. These five Tanmatras are not exactly the human senses of sound, but they signify corresponding energy potentials. The panchabhuta - This exhibit tells about the five basic elements that is sabdha, sparsha, rupa, rasa and gandha tanmatras. Atom 2500 years ago - Vaisesika atomism (4th Century BC) four basic elements of vayu, tejas, ap, and ksiti are considered material and have atomic structure. The study of atom was done in India in fourth century BC. a) Gravity - It was regarded that gravity not as a force but as a cause of the act of falling in 5th century BC. b) Elasticity - Elasticity was conceived as the property that responsible for a bow or a branch of tree, which can undergo contraction or expansion. c) Viscosity - It was conceived as the cause of cohesion and smoothness. Properties of matter- Vaisesika has laid considerable emphasis on properties of matter. This exhibit tells about the fluidity property of matter. Zero the Indian invention - This exhibit shows about the use of zero by Indians in Mathematics2000 years ago. Big numbers - This exhibit tells how big numbers were used in decimal system. It also tells how Aryabhata used big numbers to express revolutions of the earth. Decimal place value - This exhibit tells us the use of decimal system in the history of India. Word numeral - The nine numbers ranging from 0 to 9 were related to physical realities. In this exhibit you can study how the different numbers were used to express each number. Brahmas discs - This exhibit tells about the almighty Brahma’s game of building this universe. And still how many years he has to play the game of building this universe. Golden rule of three - This exhibit tells us how the method of ratio and proportion was freely dealt with in Baksali Manuscript in 2nd AD. Square root -This exhibit tells you the method of finding the square root and the cube root by Aryabhata Rasashala- Ancient Indian chemical lab - This exhibit shows how different kinds of apparatus were used in extraction of medicines in the chemical lab of Nagarjuna. We can study the Indian works on alchemy and chemistry Value of pi - This exhibit tells how accurately the value of π was found out by Aryabhata in fourth century. Pythagoras or sulba sutra: This exhibit tells about the sulba sutra or Pythagoras theorem. Bidri and lost wax (acclaimed Indian crafts) - This exhibit is explained with help of a documentary of age old method of making Bidri work. The bidri work is an original technique which involves inlaying of gold or silver on zinc, steel and copper base. Area of circle - This exhibit tells how Aryabata gives the area of circle formula which is known even today. Mathematical series: This exhibit shows us about the trigonometric operations. Sushratha (The plastic surgeon) - This exhibit tells how the great Shushruta had used surgery techniques in olden days. It introduces us about the various surgical equipment used. Ayurveda (Ancient Indian medical system) - This exhibit tells about the Ayurveda science in the Vedic period. It introduces us to the Science of life that originated in ancient India. Ayurveda elaborately deals with the measures for a healthy life. Dravyaguna (Harnessing natures gift for human health) - Crucibles (shapers of metal technology) - This exhibit tells the story of the use of crucibles in the metal extraction. It gives the idea of the heat resistant crucibles used in the Indian metallurgy. Harnessing metals - This exhibit tells us about the old method of mining used in India. It introduces us the method of mining the ores. Iron smelting (Exploiting the master metal) - This Exhibit has a model of furnace used in extraction of iron. A model of Naikund furnace, one of the most ancient iron furnace in India has been displayed here. Delhi Iron pillar- The rustless wonder: This exhibit tells us about the making of one of the rustless wonder in the world. It is 1600 years old.This exhibit introduces us to the making of this rustless wonder Legendary Indian wootz steel - This exhibit tells us about that special iron which was used by Indians to prepare the swords in the olden periods. This special steel had a great demand from Damascus, where the famous Damascus swords were produced. Zinc smelting (An Indian contribution) - This exhibit introduces us to the age old method of smelting zinc in India. Ancient Indians were the first to produce zinc on large scale. This exhibit consists of a furnace used in smelting of zinc called ‘kosthi’. Indian musical instruments - This exhibit consists of some musical instruments of Indian origin. Music is very old to India. Heritage quiz - This quiz programme can be attended by four participants. This is software produced by Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum (VITM), Bangalore. Story of India - This exhibit consists of a TV in which the story of India will be repeated continually. This story tells us about the Indian past traditions which are still alive. Glimpses of science and technology in India - This exhibit is operated by CPU the visitors can use the mouse and study about the traditional technology of India. Pottery - The exhibit consists of a still model of making pottery in the past which is still followed in India. Pottery (preserving for posterity) - This exhibit tells us the story of pottery which evolved in Harappan period in India which is still used in the country side. Architecture - This exhibit is controlled by CPU the visitor can study the various architecture styles used in India. viz, Jain style, Islamic, Rock cut………etc Weights and measures - This exhibit tells us about the weights and measures system used in Harappan period. Yarghu (The portable cannon cleaner) - This exhibit is a miniature model of the portable canon cleaner used in the Akbar’s regime. This was invented by Shiraji. The art and technology of cannons - This exhibit introduces us to the art of making canons and the use of multi-barrel canons in the past. Architecture of temple - This exhibit is controlled by CPU the visitor can study the various architecture styles used in India. viz, Jain style, Islamic, Rock cut………etc Qutub minar - This is a miniature model of Qutub Minar situated in Delhi. Ram yantra - This is a model of Ram yantra in Jaipur, which was used to study the altitude of the celestial objects in the past Samrat yantra - This is a model of the Yantra present in Jaipur which was used to measure time and the position of the stars. Konark wheel - This is a small model of the wheel in the temple of sun god in konark. Sun temple of konark - This is a small model of sun god temple in Konark, carved in stone. Sun god - This is the miniature stone sculpture of sun god present in Konark Temple. Excellence in Indian crafts (Traditional knowledge from the past) Heritage video corner - This is a place for the visitors to sit and relax while watching the Heritage video of India. Gharat - This is a model showing the use of hydel power to grind the grains. Noria and saquia (The art devices of Indian origin) - This is the model of a water pumping system used in Egypt which was copied from India. Gharat (Harnessing energy from nature) -This is a model showing the use of hydel power to grind the grains. Ancient Indian glass - This exhibit tells us how the use of glass was used in ancient India since the period of Ramayana. Metallurgy Heritage - This exhibit tells us the use of metals in various ways in ancient India like gold, copper, silver, zinc, brass, iron etc. Techniques of coin making - This model tell us the method used in minting coins in the olden periods Weblink: Unit-1 https://www.wipo.int/tk/en/tk/ https://www.un.org/development/desa/indigenouspeoples/wp- content/uploads/sites/19/2019/04/Traditional-Knowledge-backgrounder- FINAL.pdf https://onlineasdma.assam.gov.in/kmp/pdf/1625629152agb_5_tks.pdf https://en.unesco.org/links https://repository.upenn.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1172&context=anthro_ papers https://www.business.qld.gov.au/running-business/risk/ip/ip-kit/browse-ip- topics/traditional-knowledge/definitions https://canadacouncil.ca/glossary/indigenous-traditional-knowledge http://www.nativescience.org/html/traditional_and_scientific.html https://education.usask.ca/documents/profiles/aikenhead/IKS_revisited.pdf https://jfepublications.org/article/learning-in-schools/ https://www.culturalsurvival.org/news/transforming-youth-skills-future https://www.un.org/development/desa/indigenouspeoples/wp- content/uploads/sites/19/2019/04/TK-Emerging-trends-in-the-generation- transmission-and-protection-of-TK-final-paper.pdf https://iptse.com/what-is-traditional-knowledge-and-can-ipr-protect-it/ https://www.wipo.int/wipo_magazine/en/2011/03/article_0002.html http://14.139.47.15/bitstream/123456789/19352/1/IJTK%202(2)%2099-106.pdf https://www.webmd.com/balance/what-is-pranayama https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yoga http://www.dharwadsciencecentre.org/center-house/our-science-technology- heritage https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Traditional_medicine https://ia801205.us.archive.org/11/items/indianphilosophy01radh_0/indianphilos ophy01radh_0.pdf file:///C:/Users/HP/Downloads/An-Introduction-to-Indian-Philosophy%20(2).pdf  Essence of Traditional Knowledge Dr.V.Vijayalakshmi Associate Professor, SSL Vellore Institute of Technology, Chennai Hello learners  In the last video, we discussed on the Concept of traditional knowledge, its significance, comparision between tk& SK, understanding of Indegenious knowledge and comparisons between Tk&WK  Today in this video, we are going to discuss about Introduction to Culture, Culture and heritage of India and Characteristics Culture Culture refers to the patterns of thought and behaviour of people. It includes values, beliefs, rules of conduct, and patterns of social, political and economic organisation. These are passed on from one generation to the next by formal as well as informal processes. Culture consists of the ways in which we think and act as members of a society. Thus, all the achievements of group life are collectively called culture. Indian culture is the oldest of all the cultures of the world. Culture is the soul of nation. On the basis of culture, we can experience the prosperity of its past and present. Culture is collection of values of human life, which establishes it specifically and ideally separate from other groups. Culture – what it means The English word ‘Culture’ is derived from the Latin term ‘cult or cultus’ meaning tilling, or cultivating or refining and worship. In sum it means cultivating and refining a thing to such an extent that its end product evokes our admiration and respect. This is practically the same as ‘Sanskriti’ of the Sanskrit language. Definition A common anthropological definition of culture is that of pioneer English anthropologist Edward B. Tylor (Primitive Culture, 1871): Culture “is that complex whole which includes knowledge, belief, art, law, morals, custom, and any other capabilities and habits acquired by man as a member of society.”  Culture has two distinctive components, namely, material and non-material. Material culture consists of objects that are related to the material aspect of our life such as our dress, food, and household goods. MC includes technologies, instruments, material goods, consumer goods, household design and architecture, modes of production, trade, commerce, welfare and other social activities. Non-material culture refers to ideas, ideals, thoughts and belief. It includes norms, values, beliefs, myths, legends, literature, ritual, art forms and other intellectual- literary activities. The material and non-material aspects of any culture are usually interdependent on each other. Sometimes, however, material culture may change quickly but the non-material may take longer time to change. This process of lagging behind of Non material culture from Material culture is referred by William F Ogburn in his work Social Change with Respect to Culture and Original Nature. Cultural Lag Cultural lag according to Ogburn refers to the imbalance in the rate and speed of change between these two parts of culture. Changes are quick to take place in the material culture. These in turn stimulate changes in the non-material culture. But the non- material culture may be slow to respond giving rise to a gap or a lag between the material and non-material culture. This lag is called cultural lag. For example, a good number of Indians have adopted western technology but they have not changes their traditional beliefs, customs etc. In popular parlance, the material aspects of culture, such as scientific and technological achievements are seen as distinct from culture which is left with the non-material, higher achievements of group life (art, music, literature, philosophy, religion and science). Culture is the product of such an organization and expresses itself through language and art, philosophy and religion. It also expresses itself through social habits, customs, economic organisations and political institutions. “Culture” encompasses objects and symbols, the meaning given to those objects and symbols, and the norms, values, and beliefs that pervade social life. The main elements of culture The main elements of culture are: 1. Cognitive Elements 2. Beliefs 3. Values 4. Symbols 5. Language Elements Cognitive Elements- culture of all societies whether pre-literate or literate include a vast amount of knowledge about the physical and social world. The possession of this knowledge is referred to as the cognitive elements. Beliefs-Every sect within a culture having some beliefs for cultural refuge. These beliefs are responsible for the spiritual fulfilment of needs and wants. Beliefs in empirical terms are neither true nor false for example-Sikh wear bangle in one hand, keeping a dagger. The water of Ganga is sacred for Hindus. Values and norms – Values may be defined as measures of goodness or desirability. Anything getting importance in our daily life becomes our values. The origin of values is not biological but it is social production while living in society and values develop. Symbols-Culture is system of symbols. Symbols are anything used to represent express and stand for and event situation. Sign direct to guide our behaviour. It is used to show an event of past, present or future. A number of invented or artificial symbols are used in social life which assumes importance. Bowing head, whistling, winkling of eyes situational are the symbols, which express a specific object idea about other. For example flag, anthem, picture, statues are symbols. Language- A group of words or ideas having common meaning and is shared to a social situation Is called language. Language is the entrance to a culture. Language is a source of communication and to transmit message from one person to another. Language differs from culture to culture. Language is like vehicle through which we can carry out our complex social activities. Characteristics of culture Culture is social: culture does not exist in isolation neither it is an individual phenomenon. It is product of society. It originates and develops through social interaction. It is shared by the member of society. Man becomes man only among men. Culture is learned behaviour: Culture is not inherited biologically but it is learnt socially by a man in a society. It is not an in born tendency but acquired by man from the association of other, e.g., drinking, eating, dressing, walking, behaving, reading are all learnt by man. Culture is transmitted: Culture is capable of transmitted from one generation to next. Parents pass on culture traits to their children and they in turn to their children and so on. Culture is transmitted not through genes but by means of language. Language is the main vehicle of culture. Culture gratifying: Culture provides proper opportunities and prescribes means for the satisfaction of our needs and desires. These needs may be biological or social in nature but it is responsible for satisfy it. Our need for food, shelter and clothing and  desires are status, fame, money etc. are all for the examples which fulfilled according to the cultural ways Culture varies from society to society: Every society has its own culture and way of behaving. It is not uniform. Every culture is unique in itself is a specific society. For example values, customs, tradition, religion, belief are not uniform everywhere. Culture is continuous and cumulative: Culture exists as a continuous process. Culture is the memory of human race. Culture is not a matter of month or year. It is continuous process and adding new cultural traits. Culture is dynamic: It remains changing but not static. Cultural process undergoes changes but with different speed from society to society and generation to generation. Thank you Learners.  Essence of Traditional Knowledge Dr.V.Vijayalakshmi Associate Professor, SSL Vellore Institute of Technology, Chennai Hello Learners, in this video let us discuss about the functions and elements of culture and significance of culture in Human life. Functions of Culture Culture- 1. Treasury of knowledge 2. Defines situation 3. Defines attitude, value and goals 4. Decides our career 5. Provides behavior pattern 6. Moulds personality Elements of Culture – by H.M.Johnson 1. Cognitive Element: Possession of knowledge is also cognitive element. e.g., how to travel and transport 2. Beliefs: Tested empirical knowledge and untested beliefs. e.g., Passing the beliefs to the succeeding generation 3. Values and Norms: Denoted the measure of goodness and standards of behavior 4. Sign: Includes symbols. E.g.: Dove represents peace Civilization Etymology Civilization is derived from Latin word ‘Civitas’ which means a city. Introduction  It is referred as device and instrument by which nature is controlled  It includes technical, material equipment, apparatus of economy and political background. Eg. radio, school, currency Meaning It means having better ways of living and sometimes making nature bend to fulfil their needs. It also includes organizing societies into politically well-defines groups working collectively for improved conditions of life in matters of food, dress, communication, and so on. Definition Goldenweiser used the term civilization identically with culture to refer to all the human achievements. Maclver and page civilization is the whole apparatus of life. Distinction between culture and civilization  Civilization has a precise standard of measurement but not culture Example for civilization: Banking system is better than barter system Example for culture: work of Kalidas is better than Shakespeare- cannot be compared  Civilization is always advancing but not culture Example for civilization: Every technical achievement is the improvement of the past Example for culture: In field of religious and spirituality the Gautham buddha is not reached by the followers  The product of civilization is more easily communicated than the product of culture. Example for civilization: Product of civilization – like Radio Example for culture: Product of culture – poetic talent  Civilization is borrowed without loss or change but not culture Example for civilization: Product of civilization – technical devices Example for culture: Product of culture – foreigner following Indian culture is difficult  Civilization is external, but culture is internal Example for civilization: material wealth of mankind Example for culture: refers to intrinsic values Culture and Heritage Cultural development is a historical process. Our ancestors learnt many things from their predecessors. With the passage of time they also added to it from their own experience and gave up those which they did not consider useful.  The culture inherited from our predecessors is called our cultural heritage. This heritage exists at various levels.  Humanity as a whole has inherited a culture which may be called human cultural heritage  A nation also includes a culture which may be termed as national cultural heritage. Cultural heritage includes all those aspects or values of culture transmitted to human beings by their ancestors from generation to generation. They are cherished, protected and maintained by them with unbroken continuity and they feel proud of it. A few examples would be helpful in clarifying the concept of heritage- Taj Mahal. How important is this culture for the Human life  Culture is closely linked with life, without culture, there would be no humans.  Culture is made up of traditions, beliefs, and way of life, from the most spiritual to the most material.  A fundamental element of culture is the issue of religious belief and its symbolic expression.  Valuing religious identity and be aware of current efforts to make progress in terms of interfaith dialogue, which is actually an intercultural dialogue.  The need for coexistence makes the coexistence of cultures and beliefs necessary.  The three eternal and universal values of truth, beauty and goodness is closely linked with culture.  It is culture that brings us closer to truth through philosophy and religion; it brings beauty in our lives through the arts and makes us aesthetic beings.  It is culture that makes us ethical beings by bringing us closer to other human beings and teaching us the values of love, tolerance and peace. Where all we can find the conservation and promotion of our Indian cultural heritage  The Ministry of Culture operates plan scheme of Government of India for preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of the country, besides developing creativity as a social force.  It has a network of six attached offices: 1. National Museum, 2. National Gallery of Modem Art 3. National Research Laboratory for Conservation of Cultural Property 4. National Library 5. Central Reference Library Anthropological Survey of India It also has two subordinate offices: 1. Archaeological Survey of India 2. National Archives of India There are thirty – three autonomous organizations under the Ministry of Culture, Viz. Museums, Academies, Memorials, Libraries, Buddhist & Tibetan Orgainsation, Science Cities, Zonal Cultural Center, etc. which in their own ways are preserving, promoting and disseminating India’s vast cultural heritage. Thank you Learners Hello learners. Welcome to the Indian Culture – part 2 session. You learned about culture, its qualities, and its significance in the last session. In this chapter, we'll look at how culture has changed over time. The emphasis will be on Indian culture across the ages of Ancient, Medieval, and Modern India. Introduction to Culture Culture is a way of life for many people. Culture includes the foods you consume, the clothes you wear, the language you speak, and the God you serve. In short, culture is the embodiment of the way we think and act. Looking at the map of India we can see the diversity in social and environmental life. Diversities are seen in speaking different languages, following different religious practices and rituals, food habits, dress patterns, music, dance, etc. The distinct traits of Indian culture have been well-regarded from ancient times and are being followed now. Culture in Ancient India We will now have a look at the culture from Ancient India. Let me post a question? Do you believe that Indian culture has remained consistent throughout history? The answer is “NO” It has gone through numerous changes. Any idea, how these changes have taken place? This is because every dynasty, every invader that comes to the land and settles leaves their imprint on the culture. Harappan Civilization Let’s start with the Harappan civilization. Indus Valley Civilization also known as Harappan Civilization is an ancient Indian civilization that flourished more than 4000 years ago in the north-western parts of the Indo-Pakistan sub-continent. It derived its name from the River Indus, which is the main river of the region. Harappan Civilization is known for urban culture in India. Agriculture was the main occupation of the Harappans who were living in rural areas. The transition from rural to urban life took place through remarkable features of Harappan culture. Here are some of the features of Harappan culture. Great cities emerged. They built double storied houses of burnt bricks with a bathroom, a kitchen and a well. Underground drainage system connecting all houses to the street drains which were covered by stones or bricks. Cooking was done in the courtyard. Women were given respect and treated equally.  Harappan civilization is based on archaeological evidence alone. Knowledge on personal hygiene. Worshipped trees and animals. Believed in ghosts and evil forces and used amulets as protection against the evil spirits. Slowly, the Harappan culture started declining and there is no evidence of its deterioration. Aryan Culture A new culture flourished in the same known as the Aryan culture. There were significant differences between this culture and the culture which preceded it. Aryans settled along the banks of the Indus which is Sindhu and Saraswati now extinct rivers. They wrote hymns in praise of the gods and goddesses they worshipped. The Rig Veda, Sama Veda, Yajur Veda, and Atharva Veda were the four Vedas that compiled these hymns. The Aryans had a major influence on Indian culture in 3 major areas: Religion: Hinduism The Aryans carried with them a religion known as Vedism. This Vedism meshed with the Harappa culture to give a history to the Vedic period. This Vedic period saw the inception of what has come to be known as Hinduism, one of the largest religions in today's world. Written language: Sanskrit Vedic Sanskrit is the language of the Vedas, the most ancient Hindu script. Social Structure: Caste system According to the social-historical theory, the origin of caste system finds its origin in the arrival of Aryans in India. The four primary castes are Brahmin, the priests; Kshatriya, warriors and nobility; Vaisya, farmers, traders, and artisans; and Shudra, tenant farmers and servants. Some people were born outside of and below the caste system; they were called "untouchables" or Dalits—"the crushed ones.“ This culture was patriarchal in nature. Men in the family were given power and women lost their political rights. Women cannot own property. Child marriage was not prevented, and women’s remarriage was not allowed. Over a period, Aryan culture merged with the local culture. Education was given to the upper caste. Gurukula was famous where pupils stayed with their teachers at gurukula. Women were not allowed or sent to gurukula. Religious sacrifice was given importance. The priesthood became a profession and a hereditary one. Domination of priests, against sacrifices and rituals, led to the rise of Jainism and Buddhism to protect against the prevailing Hinduism. Ancient India This period of ancient India ended with the rise of the Mauryan empire. Inscriptions and coins are important sources of information for understanding the early history of Indian culture. Archaeology as a source of information yielded considerable data on the material cultures of the Ganga valley. The Gupta era is often regarded as the high point of Ancient Indian culture called “a golden age” – few mentioned this as a period of renaissance. It was a period of great achievements in art, literature, and science. It was also a time of transition, as Indian culture progressed from its ancient form to its more modern one. India has a stunning culture that astounds visitors from all over the world. People have admired India's culture for thousands of years. The culture of ancient India is incredibly diverse and rich. Medieval Period in India Let’s now look at the Medieval period in India. Developments in the field of religion, folk art, and language in India during the medieval times have been important milestones in the evolution of the composite culture of India. The composite cultural characteristic of the medieval period is amply witnessed in these fields. A new style of architecture known as the Indo- Islamic style was born out of this fusion. The distinctive features of Indo-Islamic architecture were the dome, lofty towers or minarets, arch, and vault. The medieval Indian culture represents the synthesis of Indian and Persian philosophy, literature, art, and architecture. In the religious sphere, Sufism and Bhakti traditions influenced each other. They provided an opportunity for understanding the religious traditions of Hindus and Muslims at the people’s level. The emergence of Urdu as a new language is the best example of interaction and synthesis. The medieval period represents an important era of dramatic change in the world of religion and art in South Asia. The growing popularity of Sufism played an important role in the popular acceptability of Islam and in the course of establishing unique Islamic traditions in the subcontinent. Islam had a great influence on Indian society. There were two important religious movements during this period – The Sufi and the Bhakti movements. The Sufis with their attitude of piety, tolerance, sympathy, and concept of equality had a deep impact on the Indian people. The Bhakti movement played a similar role in the development of Hinduism. Another important development during the medieval period was the growth in vernacular literature. Growing regional identities helped create new literary and art forms. The growth in regional languages like Bengali, Gujarati, Marathi and Telugu was a very significant development. The popularity of translations further widened readership and helped in the exchange of ideas. During this period, two new religious faiths flourished in India. They were Sikhism and Zoroastrianism. The exchange of ideas also ushered in the new development in music. The use of the Sitar and new styles of music further enriched the medieval period. In the realm of art, one witnesses the development of new styles of painting associated with the patronage of the Mughal and the Rajput style. There was a change in the character and stylistic representation. The synthesis of the medieval period is best seen in the development of new architectural styles. Many forts, palaces, temples and Mosques can be dated to this period are examples of the new styles. The use of decorative motifs and the adaptation of the dome are examples of the architectural traditions of this period. The Cholas conquered parts of Bengal and Indonesia. They introduced democratic institutions at the village level. In the Cholamandalam region, the Tamil language was popular. On the political front, the thirteenth to sixteenth century saw the decline of an all-powerful state and the rise of a number of provincial and regional states. The increase in commerce can be seen in the increase of coinage as a result of the transfer of stored silver and gold into minted money. The cultural stream in India continued to assimilate all the newcomers and the resulting cultural interaction gave Indian culture its characteristic of being multidimensional, multilingual, multireligious and yet composite in nature. Modern India India is a fascinating country that has intrigued Westerners for millennia. Spices, rich stones, and enigmatic architecture have all come from this area. It boasts a gorgeous and culturally diverse culture. Traditional Indian practices, British heritage, and various modern influences from throughout the world combine to form modern Indian culture. Language- Hindi and English are the two official languages. However, because they are not spoken by everyone, over 20 other languages have been given official status. There are about 1,000 dialects spoken in the area. Religion- A large number of the population follows Hinduism. About 80 per cent of the population are Hindus. This faith is a blend of several religious ideas and traditions that is widely seen as a way of life. Islam is the world's second most popular religion, with Buddhism, Sikhism, Jainism, Christianity, and other faiths. Festivals- There is no definitive list of Indian festivals because the country celebrates over 50 festivals by people of various cultures and religions. Indian festivals are an important element of the country's rich cultural legacy. Family- Family structure is changing from joint family culture to nuclear families. Food - Indian cuisine has gained international recognition. India's cuisine is recognised for its spiciness. Spices are abundantly used in Indian cuisine, whether in North or South India. Clothing- In India, modern clothing incorporates both western and indigenous aspects. Many women also wear a bindi (a colourful dot in the centre of the forehead), and they frequently wear jewellery and makeup. Traditional henna tattoos are still a popular kind of body art for special occasions. Social stratification - In India, caste is one of the most essential sets of role cards and still exists. The most important feature is Urban India and Rural India. Urban India is the India of modern industry, national politics and foreign policy, government planning, the national media, the major universities, business, the armed forces, science and technology. Its best products are frequently as good as the best in the world, its orientation is cosmopolitan. Rural India is the India of age-old patterns where tradition is the principal dynamic of society, where outsiders come and go but life continues, often without much change. When urban and rural India are united, by extending education, reducing illiteracy, improving the average lifespan, introducing some basic health care, and maintaining a democratic government system, India would be a flourishing country. Unity in diversity is one of the major characteristics of Indian culture which makes it unique. A synthesis of various cultures came about through the ages to give shape to what is recognised as Indian culture today. Spirituality and a value-based lifestyle is the core of Indian culture. The culture of India is the living expression of the simplicity and profundity of the people. Thus, the distinctive features of Indian culture and its uniqueness are the precious possession of all Indians With this, we come to the end of our session. In today’s session, we discussed the culture of Ancient, Medieval, and Modern India. I hope you would have got a fair understanding of Indian Culture. Thank you and Happy Learning! Welcome to the today’s session on Famous culture in India Every state in India is a "Unity in Diversity," with its own unique cultural heritage and traditions. Every region of India has its own unique traditions, food, philosophy, language, and customs. Thus, Indian culture and tradition are a synthesis of the cultures of various states that have been woven together. Let's examine the various cultural traditions of India's. Let's travel from the North to the South and see wh