Introduction: Amrita University’s Amrita Values Programme (AVP), is a new initiative to give exposure to students about richness and beauty of Indian way of life. India is a country where history, culture, art, aesthetics, cuisine and nature exhibit more diversity than nearly anywhere else in the world. Amrita Values Programmes emphasize on making students familiar with the rich tapestry of Indian life, culture, arts, science and heritage which has historically drawn people from all over the world.
Art of Living through Amma
Amma’s messages can be put into action in our life through pragmatism and attuning our thought process in a positive and creative manner. Every single word Amma speaks, and the guidance received on matters which we consider trivial are rich in content and touch the very inner being of our personality. Life gets enriched by Amma’s guidance and She teaches us the art of exemplary life skills where we become witness to all the happenings around us, still keeping the balance of the mind.
Insights from the Ramayana
Historical significance of Ramayana, the first Epic in the world – Influence of Ramayana on Indian values and culture – Storyline of Ramayana – Study of leading characters in Ramayana – Influence of Ramayana outside India – Misinterpretation of Ramayana by Colonial powers and its impact on Indian life – Relevance of Ramayana for modern times.
Insights from the Mahabharata
Historical significance of Mahabharata, the largest Epic in the world – Influence of Mahabharata on Indian values and culture – Storyline of Mahabharata – Study of leading characters in Mahabharata – Kurukshetra War and its significance – Importance of Dharma in society – Message of the Bhagavad Gita – Relevance of Mahabharata for modern times.
Insights from the Upanishads
Introduction: Shruti versus Smrti – Overview of the four Vedas and ten Principal Upanishads – The central problems of the Upanishads – Ultimate reality – the nature of Atman – the different modes of consciousness
– Sanatana Dharma and its uniqueness – The Upanishads and Indian Culture – Relevance of Upanishads for modern times – A few Upanishad Personalities: Nachiketas, Satyakama Jabala, Aruni, Shvetaketu.
Insights from Bhagavad Gita
Introduction to Bhagavad Gita – Brief storyline of Mahabharata – Context of Kurukshetra War – The anguish of Arjuna – Counsel by Sri. Krishna – Key teachings of the Bhagavad Gita – Karma Yoga, Jnana Yoga and Bhakti Yoga – Theory of Karma and Reincarnation – Concept of Dharma – Idea of the Self and Realisation of the Self – Qualities of a Realised person – Concept of Avatar – Relevance of Mahabharata for modern times.
Swami Vivekananda and his Message
Brief Sketch of Swami Vivekananda’s Life – Meeting with Guru – Disciplining of Narendra – Travel across India – Inspiring Life incidents – Address at the Parliament of Religions – Travel in United States and Europe – Return and reception India – Message to Indians about our duties to the nation.
Great Spiritual Teachers of India
Sri Rama, Sri Krishna, Sri Buddha, Adi Shankaracharya, Sri Ramanujacharya, Sri Madhvacharya, Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, Swami Vivekananda, Sri Ramana Maharshi, Mata Amritanandamayi Devi Indian Arts and Literature:
The aim of this course is to present the rich literature and culture of Ancient India and help students appreciate their deep influence on Indian Life – Vedic culture, primary source of Indian Culture – Brief introduction and appreciation of a few of the art forms of India – Arts, Music, Dance, Theatre, Paintings, Sculpture and architecture – the wonder language, Sanskrit and ancient Indian Literature
Importance of Yoga and Meditation in Life:
The objective of the course is to provide practical training in YOGA ASANAS with a sound theoretical base and theory classes on selected verses of Patanjali’s Yoga Sutra and Ashtanga Yoga. The coverage also includes the effect of yoga on integrated personality development.
Appreciation of Kerala’s Mural Art Forms:
A mural is any piece of artwork painted or applied directly on a wall, ceiling or other large permanent surface. In the contemporary scenario Mural painting is not restricted to the permanent structures and are being done even on canvas. A distinguishing characteristic of mural painting is that the architectural elements of the given space are harmoniously incorporated into the picture. Kerala mural paintings are the frescos depicting mythology and legends, which are drawn on the walls of temples and churches in South India, principally in Kerala. Ancient temples, churches and places in Kerala, South India, display an abounding tradition of mural paintings mostly dating back between the 9th to 12th centuries CE when this form of art enjoyed Royal patronage. Learning Mural painting through the theory and practice workshop is the objective of this course.
Practicing Organic Farming
Life and nature are closely linked through the healthy practices of society for maintaining sustainability. When modern technological knowhow on microorganisms is applied in farming using the traditional practices we can avoid damage to the environment. The course will train the youth on modern practices of organic farming. Amma says “we have to return this land to the coming generations without allowing even the slightest damage to happen to it”. Putting this philosophy to practice will bring about an awakening and enthusiasm in all to strive for good health and to restore the harmony in nature”
Ancient Indian Science and Technology
Science and technology in ancient and medieval India covered all the major branches of human knowledge and activities, including mathematics, astronomy, physics, chemistry, medical science and surgery, fine arts, mechanical, civil engineering, architecture, shipbuilding and navigation. Ancient India was a land of sages, saints and seers as well as a land of scholars and scientists. The course gives an awareness on India’s contribution to science and technology.