“Reviving Bharat’s Glory: Dr. Sunil Mohanty Ji’s Call for a Cultural Renaissance and Educational Reforms”

Dr. Sunil Mohanty Ji, in his inspiring and motivational speech, as Chief Guest in the concluding session of two-day long conference at Central Institute of Technology (CIT), Kokrajhar, eloquently traced the historical journey of Bharatvarsh, spanning over 2,500 years, detailing how it has faced relentless invasions and challenges yet preserved its cultural and intellectual traditions. He powerfully articulated:
“There may be a comma in the flow of Sanatan Gyan Parampara, but there can never be a full stop to it.”
The unique virtue of the Indian Knowledge System (Sanatan Gyan Parampara) lies in its inclusivity—it does not claim that there is only one way, one route, or one path to attain Brahma Gyan (ultimate enlightenment). Unlike rigid doctrines, it embraces diversity, allowing multiple perspectives and spiritual approaches to coexist.
Despite facing 2,500 years of external aggressions, Sanatan Gyan Parampara has stood resilient. This endurance is attributed to the Indian Knowledge System’s ability to not only accept but also integrate and harmonize various belief systems while maintaining its core essence.
According to the renowned British economist Angus Maddison, India was the world’s leading economic power in the 1st century AD, contributing nearly 34% of the global GDP, the highest in the world, a position it sustained until 1498 AD. However, despite being labeled a “developing nation” today, in reality, Bharat is a re-developing Vishwaguru, reclaiming its rightful place on the global stage.
The decline began after 1498 AD, when colonial powers systematically dismantled Bharat’s decentralized economic model, known as the Village Republic System. This self-sustaining system was the foundation of India’s economic strength. Even as late as 1750 AD, Bharat’s GDP share was 24.5%, while Britain’s was merely 1.5%. However, due to relentless plunder and economic exploitation under colonial rule, India’s GDP fell to 1.7%, while the combined GDP of Britain and America surged to 41%.
In his powerful address, Dr. Mohanty passionately underscored how British colonial education policies were meticulously designed to serve their administrative interests, systematically undermining indigenous knowledge systems. These policies instilled a sense of inferiority among Indians, fostering the misconception that Western advancements were inherently superior.
He further elaborated on the transformative impact of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020) in rectifying these historical distortions. By promoting a holistic and inclusive education system, the NEP integrates and celebrates India’s rich cultural heritage. It seeks to decolonize the curriculum, instill pride in Indian knowledge traditions, and reshape the mindset of the younger generation.
Given his vast experience and role, Dr. Mohanty strongly advocates for educational reforms that emphasize India’s cultural and intellectual legacy. He encourages the youth to recognize, appreciate, and build upon their own heritage, rather than viewing the West as the sole benchmark of development.