List of Vedic Gurukuls in India – A Comprehensive Guide

Vedic gurukuls in ancient India were centres of knowledge where knowledge and wisdom flowed like mighty rivers. The Vedic Gurukul system is one of the most unique educational systems. These places were not just educational centres. 

They were centres for the nourishment of the mind and the soul. They helped the students (shishya) foster a deep connection with the authentic texts of the Vedas. Vedas are the essence of Hinduism. Devotees worship Vedas as deities. 

The Vedic Gurukul System in India has continued to exist to this day. It is one of the most holistic education systems in India. This system offers a unique way for people seeking an education system that has its roots in spirituality. 

People believe that the Vedic education system offers the right direction for self-discovery. This comprehensive blog covers all the details about the Vedic Gurukuls in India. Read the complete blog to discover more about this ancient treasure from India. 

What is Vedic Gurukul? 

 A Vedic Gurukul is an educational centre having its roots in the ancient traditions of the Vedas. A Vedic Gurukul goes beyond the confines of a classroom. It is a centre for fostering a strong student-disciple (Guru-Shishya) relationship based on devotion, mutual respect, and sharing of knowledge.  

Principles of Vedic Gurukul 

The Vedic Gurukul system is one of the most ancient education systems. This section covers the core principles of the Vedic Gurukul system. 

Vedic Education
Vedas are the oldest scriptures in Hinduism. Vedas form the foundation of the Vedic Gurukul system. Students study the Vedas to gain knowledge about rituals, mantras, and subjects such as Philosophy. The Vedic Gurukul education system is based on eternal laws also known as the Sanatan Dharm.

Guru Shishya Parampara
Student-teacher (Guru Shishya) relationships form the core of the Vedic Gurukul system. In this system, Guru is a revered scholar and a guide who imparts knowledge and life lessons to the devotees. The bond between the Guru and the Shishya is deep.

The development of the character of Shishyas is the focus of the Guru. Shishya learns academic lessons, values, and discipline from the Guru. Guru prepares the Shishyas for the possible adverse situations of the future.

Rituals and Yagnas
The Vedic Gurukul system is based on the integration of rituals with the curriculum. Rituals such as yajnas (fire sacrifice ritual) are integrated with the other rituals. These rituals offer practical applications of the Vedas for the students. They are beneficial in establishing a connection with the divine.

Yog
Yog is an ancient Indian science for physical and mental well-being. Students in Vedic gurukuls learn asanas, pranayam, and dhyan to lead a balanced life. Students also learn basic principles of healing the body with Ayurveda.

Simplicity
Simplicity is the hallmark of the Vedic Gurukul system. Students in Vedic Gurukul embrace austerity. They live a disciplined life and focus on learning and self-growth. Focus of Vedic gurukuls is on inner wealth. Material possessions are secondary.

A Day Inside a Vedic Gurukul – Till Noon 

Vedic Gurukuls in India offer a unique experience. Activities inside the Vedic gurukuls are steeped in discipline and traditions.  This section covers the daily activities inside the Vedic Gurukuls in India. 

Early Wake Up Time
The day inside Vedic gurukuls begins before sunrise. Students inside the Gurukul wake up early and participate in morning prayers and meditation after completing their daily ablutions. In most gurukuls, students also participate in the arti before dawn also known as the mangla arti.

Vedic Studies
After having breakfast, students in the Vedic gurukuls begin their day with spiritual discourse (Satsang). These sessions are usually held by the guru or senior students of the Gurukul. This session is followed by an intense study of the Vedas and other Sanskrit scriptures.

Rituals and Yagnas
After the spiritual discourse and Vedic studies, students participate in the mid-morning rituals (yajnas). Students perform these rituals under the guidance of a guru. The Guru helps the students in the practical application of Vedic knowledge.

Fresh Meals
Vegetarian meals are offered at lunchtime. The whole emphasis is on freshness and use of seasonal ingredients. Students of the Gurukul make their contributions in the procurement of ingredients and preparation of meals.

Yog
Students studying in the Vedic gurukuls are taught Yog asanas (postures) and pranayama (breathing techniques) for their physical and mental well-being. Other physical activities such as traditional sports and walks in nature also form a part of the daily routine of Vedic Gurukuls.

A Day Inside a Vedic Gurukul – Post Noon 

Self Study
Time after the late afternoon is dedicated to self-study. This allows the students to go deeper into what they have studied in the scriptures and practice the learnings.

Service
Students studying in the Vedic Gurukuls get the opportunity to participate in service or seva activities. They make their contributions to the upkeep of the Gurukul and volunteer for community welfare activities.

Satsang
Students gather for evening prayers at the time of dusk. Evening prayers are followed by sessions of Satsang. Students learn about ethical conduct, and stories from Hindu scriptures, and clarify their doubts based on the learnings of the day.

Early Dinner and Bedtime
A nutritious meal is served as dinner in the Gurukul. Dinner is followed by a small interval of reflection and writing. Bedtime is usually early to make sure that the students get enough rest for the next day.

Vedic Gurukul System during the Ramayan Period 

Ramayan is one of the most sacred scriptures in Hinduism. It was written in Awadhi language (in a poetic style) by Goswami Tulsi Das Ji. There are other versions of the Ramayan also. For example, Sage Valmiki also wrote one version of the Ramayan in Sanskrit. 

It is mentioned in the Ramayan that Lord Ram went to the Vedic Gurukul of Sage Vashishth along with his three brothers (Shri Bharat, Shri Lakshman, and Shri Ripudaman) to attain education. Guru Vashishth prepared his students for their future. 

He gave them training in warfare and martial arts. The main focus of the teachings in the Vedic Gurukul of Guru Vashishth was on Dharm (righteousness). Knowledge of the scriptures of the Vedas was also a part of the education system in the Gurukul. 

It is mentioned in the Ramayan that the teachings of Sage Vashishth helped Lord Ram and his brother Shri Lakshman during their time in the forest (Dandkaranya). During his time in the forest, Lord Ram also visited the gurukuls of sages such as Maharshi Sage Bharadwaj and Sage Agastya. He experienced spiritual growth by visiting the gurukuls of these sages.    

Vedic Gurukul System during the Mahabharat Period 

Mahabharat is one of the most important ancient scriptures of India. It was written in the Himalayas by Lord Ganesh. Lord Ganesh wrote this epic poem to help Sage Vedvyas. There is a mention of Vedic Gurukuls in the Mahabharat. 

Gurus such as Guru Dron, Guru Kripacharya, and Shri Balram were known for their knowledge and expertise in several disciplines. They gave training to their students on Dharm, Vedic studies, ethics, science, and arts. 

Guru Dron was a revered warrior who had established a Vedic Gurukul to train his students. It is mentioned in the Mahabharat that Guru Dron trained some of the prominent characters of Mahabharat such as Bhishma (Pitamah), Arjun, and Karn. 

It is also mentioned in Mahabharat that Guru Kripacharya educated the Pandavas (Prince Yudhisthir, Prince Bhim, Prince Arjun, Prince Nakul, and Prince Sehdev). He gave training to the Pandavas in various disciplines such as Vedic knowledge, statecraft, and warfare. 

Number of Vedic Gurukuls in India – State-Wise

There are more than 3000 Vedic gurukuls in India. Read this section to learn more about the Number of registered Vedic Gurukuls in the states of India. 

State	Number of Vedic Gurukuls
Andhra Pradesh	31
Andaman and Nicobar	0
Assam	1
Arunachal Pradesh	0
Bihar	2
Chattisgarh	1
Chandigarh	0
Dadra and Nagar Haveli & Daman and Diu	0
Delhi	6
Goa	4
Gujarat	17
Haryana	26
Himachal Pradesh	2
Jammu and Kashmir	2
Jharkhand	1
Karnataka	50
Kerala	11
Ladakh	0
Lakshadweep	0
Madhya Pradesh	8
Maharashtra	46
Manipur	0
Meghalaya	0
Mizoram	0
Nagaland	0
Odisha	13
Puducherry	0
Punjab	4
Rajasthan	11
Sikkim	3
Tamil Nadu	50
Telangana	13
Tripura	1
Uttar Pradesh	22
Uttarakhand	5
West Bengal	5

More than twenty Vedic Gurukuls are located in Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Karnataka,  Haryana, and Andhra Pradesh. Read further to learn more about the famous Vedic Gurukuls in India.

Classification of Vedic Gurukuls based on Pattern of Education 

Vedic Gurukuls are usually different from the usual schooling system. There are mainly three categories of Vedic Gurukuls in India. This section covers the three different types of Vedic Gurukuls in India. 

Type 1

Students in these Vedic Gurukuls live with their Acharyas. They get to learn subjects such as Arthshastra, Mathematics, Astronomy, and Philosophy. Students participate in activities that are beneficial for society and give them practical exposure.

These gurukuls take a holistic approach towards learning from the teachings of the Vedas. Only a limited number of such Vedic Gurukuls exist in India.

Type 2

These Gurukuls mainly focus on the study of the Sanskrit language. For example, Ashtadhayi of Panini and scriptures based on the Vedas are taught in these Gurukuls.

The approach followed here is less holistic in comparison to the Type 1 Vedic Gurukuls. The number of such Gurukuls is more than the number of Type 1 Vedic Gurukuls in India.

Type 3

These Vedic Gurukuls are based on a hybrid approach. Their education system is accredited by the Central Board of Secondary Education.

They include important aspects of the Vedic Gurukul system such as residential schooling (learning), moral education, and the study of the Sanskrit language. The maximum number of Vedic Gurukuls in India are of this type.

Vedic Gurukuls Based on Tradition

Vedic gurukuls in India follow specific traditions. They are classified into different sampradayas on the basis of the traditions they follow.

Traditions or sampradaya have a significant influence on the subjects taught inside the gurukul. This section covers a list of some of the important Vedic Gurukuls in India on the basis of tradition. 

Shri Swaminarayan Sampradaya
Shri Swaminarayan Sampradaya is one of the most prominent sampradayas in India. In total, they run around 50 gurukuls in India. Most of the Gurukuls are located in Gujarat. Swaminarayan gurukuls are also located in the U.S.A. and Europe.

The curriculum of Swaminarayan Vedic Gurukuls is based on the C.B.S.E pattern. The teachings of these gurukuls are based on the Vedic principles. Fees charged in these gurukuls are equivalent to the schools in the area. 

Hindu Mutts
Many Vedic Pathshalas are run by Shankaracharya mutts. These Vedic pathshalas are present in several Hindu pilgrimage sites. For example, Shankaracharya Mutts run Vedic gurukuls in important holy locations such as Puri, Dwarika, and Badrikashram. No fee is charged for studying in these pathshalas.

Arya Samaj Vedic Gurukuls
Arya Samaj runs many Vedic Gurukuls in North India. Students get to study subjects such as Literature and Vedic Philosophy in these gurukuls. Important Gurukuls based on the Arya Samaj system include the Vedic Gurukul run by Patanjali in Haridwar and the Vedic Gurukul run by Paropkarini Sabha in Ajmer.

ISKCON
The International Society for Krishna Consciousness runs a few Gurukuls in India. Students studying in these gurukuls are given training in Vedic principles and teachings of the Bhagwat Gita. Some of the most important ISKCON gurukuls are located in Mayapur, West Bengal and Mathura, Uttar Pradesh.

List of Famous Vedic Gurukuls in North India 

This section of the blog covers the list of famous Vedic Gurukuls in North India. Read the complete section to learn all the important details about Vedic Gurukuls in North India.

Gurukul Mahavidyalay

Gurukul Mahavidyalay is located in Jwalapur, Haridwar. This Gurukul is famous for offering Vedic education along with modern subjects. Founded in the year 1907, the Gurukul Mahavidyalay offers free education in the Vedic scriptures.

Students in the gurukul are taught several scriptures and subjects such as the Vedas, Upanishads, Philosophy, and Sanskrit Literature. Students also learn modern subjects such as Mathematics, Science, Computer Science, and Social Science. The medium of instruction in this Gurukul is Hindi. 

Gurukul Kangri Vishwavidyalay

Gurukul Kangri Vishwavidyalay is a well-known educational institution located in Haridwar. It was founded in the year 1902 with the aim of reviving the ancient Vedic Gurukul system in India. Imparting education in modern subjects in addition to Vedic studies is the focus area of this Gurukul.

It offers Undergraduate (U.G) and Post Graduate (P.G), PhD, and Diploma degrees in several fields such as Humanities, Engineering, Social Sciences, and Management. 

Unlike the traditional Vedic Gurukuls in India, Gurukul Kangri Vishwavidyalay is a co-educational institution. Separate hostels are available for male and female students. 

Maharishi Ved Vyas Gurukul Vidyapeeth

Maharishi Ved Vyas Gurukul Vidyapeeth is one of the most well-known Vedic Gurukuls in North India. It was founded in the year 1999. This Vidyapeeth is located in the Anand Dham Ashram campus in New Delhi.

Students studying in the Vidyapeeth learn modern subjects along with traditional Vedic education. Subjects such as Science, Mathematics, Social Studies, and Computer Science are taught along with Vedic studies. Students also learn meditation, yog, and other life skills for their personal development. 

List of Famous Vedic Gurukuls in South India 

Read this section to learn more about the famous Vedic Gurukuls in South India. 

Sri Swaminathar Ved Pathshala

Sri Swaminathar Ved Pathshala is a traditional Vedic pathshala located in the Cuddalore district of Tamil Nadu. This pathshala is based on the traditional Gurukul system of education. Students reside on the campus and learn from the teachers (gurus).

The focus of the curriculum is on recitation, interpretation, and application of the Vedas. Students enrolled in the Pathshala participate in activities of social welfare such as medical camps. It offers scholarships to encourage students towards Vedic studies.

It was founded by Dr T Vasudevan on the basis of the teachings of Mahaperiyava Sri Chandrasekhar Saraswati Swamigal. This pathshala is dedicated to the perseverance of Vedic studies.

Ramkrishna Advaita Ashram

The Ramkrishna Advaita Ashram is located in Kalady Kerala. This spiritual centre was established in 1936. It is affiliated to the Ramakrishna Mission. This ashram offers a unique blend of learning opportunities for the students. Students get to learn about Vedant philosophy, Sanskrit language, and spiritual practices.

Students of the ashram get to participate in classes and discourses on Vedant. Vedant is a core philosophy of Hinduism. It focuses on the oneness of the atman (soul of a person) with Brahm (ultimate reality). Students get to learn about spiritual practices such as meditation, chanting, and kirtans. 

Vedasanskrit Pathashala

The Vedsanskrit Pathshala is located in the Bellary district of Karnataka. The Vidyaranya Vidya Pith Trust manages this pathshala. This residential Vedic Gurukul offers education in the traditional Vedic education system.

The students are given teachings in the Vedas, Sanskrit language, and rituals of Hinduism. The main focus of this Gurukul is on the preservation and transmission of Vedic knowledge.

The Vidyaranya Vidya Pith Trust was established in the year 1980. It is a non-profit organization working in the field of education. The Vidyaranya Vidya Pith Trust is actively working for the promotion of Vedic education through its institutions such as Vedasanskrit Pathshala and Vidyaranya Vidyapeeth.

Admission Criteria 

Students enrolling in Vedic Gurukuls in India have to meet certain eligibility requirements. Read this section to learn all the details about the eligibility criteria for admission to Vedic Gurukuls in India. 

Age Requirement
Most of the Vedic Gurukuls have a minimum age requirement for admission. The typical age requirement for admission varies from 8 to 12 years. Some gurukuls also have a slightly higher minimum age requirement.

Educational Requirement
The educational requirement for admission to Vedic Gurukuls can vary. Some gurukuls accept students with having basic level of education while others also accept students with limited education.

Fitness
Vedic Gurukuls focus on leading a simple and disciplined life. Vedic Gurukuls consider students to have good physical and mental health for admission.

Entrance Exams
Some Vedic Gurukuls conduct basic entrance exams to make an assessment of the aptitude of the students for Vedic studies and their ability to handle the environment of the Gurukul.

Interview
Vedic Gurukuls hold interviews of the students with their parents to make an assessment of the motivation and commitment to Gurukul life.

Family Background
Some Vedic Gurukuls focus on family support for the student. They make an assessment of the family’s understanding and support for the student’s gurukul life.

To learn more about the admission process, eligibility criteria, and contact details, interested people (students and parents) can easily visit the official websites of Vedic Gurukuls.

Affiliation of Vedic Gurukuls

Vedic Gurukuls in India usually operate with a high degree of autonomy. It is not necessary that the Vedic Gurukuls have a formal affiliation like modern educational institutions. This section covers the ways in which Vedic Gurukuls can be affiliated with other entities. 

Trusts
Trusts are usually non-profit bodies working for the preservation of Vedic knowledge. For example, Vedasanskrit Pathshala is affiliated with the Vidyaranya Vidya Pith Trust.

Mutts
Vedic gurukuls focussing on spiritual traditions and Vedic knowledge are usually associated with mutts. For example, the Sringeri Mutt in Karnataka is an example of a mutt running a Vedic Gurukul. It runs Sri Bharathitheertha Veda Pathashala in Bangalore.

Sampradays
Many Vedic Gurukuls in India are affiliated with Hindu sampradayas. These sampradys run their own gurukuls with specific philosophies and practices. For example, Swaminarayan Sampraday and Arya Samaj run Vedic Gurukuls in India.

Informal Association
Some Vedic Gurukuls have informal connections with other gurukuls based on their teaching style and philosophy. These connections are usually for collaboration and exchange of knowledge.

Factors Affecting Admission Cost 

Several factors affect the cost of education in Vedic Gurukuls. This section covers all the important factors impacting the admission cost in Vedic Gurukuls. 

Location
Vedic Gurukuls in the urban areas usually have a higher cost of operation in comparison to Vedic Gurukuls in the rural areas.

Facilities
Some Vedic Gurukuls offer modern facilities such as libraries, computer labs, and healthcare facilities. These gurukuls usually charge higher fees.

Free Gurukuls
Vedic Gurukuls associated with charitable trusts or sampradayas offer free education to the students. They also offer free food and lodging facilities. Such Gurukuls usually receive donations and support from the community.

Gurukuls with Minimal Fees
Some Vedic Gurukuls charge minimal fees for covering basic expenses such as food and clothing. They usually give priority to the underprivileged students.

Gurukuls with Moderate Fees
Some gurukuls charge fees covering basic amenities, cost of operations, and salaries of the teachers. They provide financial assistance or scholarships to the deserving students.

Career Prospects for Students 

This section covers the potential career paths for the students of Vedic Gurukuls.

Priests
Vedic Gurukuls equip the students to perform Vedic pujas and rituals. Education obtained in the Vedic gurukuls can equip the students to become specialist priests.

Vedic Scholars
Students of Vedic Gurukuls can enrol in advanced Vedic studies and become teachers in Gurukuls, universities, and private institutions.

Yog Instructor
Several Vedic Gurukuls lay emphasis on Yog. Students having a strong foundation in Yog can become Yog instructors.

Sanskrit Teacher
Students gain knowledge of the Sanskrit language in the Vedic Gurukuls. They can make careers as teachers, researchers, or translators.

Spiritual Guide
Vedic Gurukuls focus on the spiritual development of the students. Students graduating from these gurukuls can become spiritual guides.

Benefits 

Read this section to learn all the important benefits of Vedic Gurukuls in India. 

• Deep Rooted Knowledge
  Students studying in Vedic Gurukuls develop a strong understanding of the Vedas. Study of the Vedas helps them in developing a strong faith in Hinduism. 
• Spiritual Development & Growth
  The environment in Vedic Gurukuls promotes the building of character, self-reflection, and connection with the divine. 
• Work Ethic
  Living in Vedic Gurukuls instils discipline and a strong work ethic in the students. They develop dedication towards learning.
• Simple Living
  Simplicity is the main focus area for Vedic Gurukuls. Focus on simplicity helps in fostering contentment and self-reliance. 

Important Points 

Selecting the right Vedic Gurukul is not easy. Read this section to learn all the important points about selecting the right Vedic Gurukul. 

• Location
  Students should select the location of the Vedic Gurukul as per their preference. 
• Facilities
  Students should check infrastructure and living conditions before selecting the Vedic Gurukul. 
• Fees
  Students should inquire about the fees and scholarships offered by the Vedic Gurukuls before taking admission. 
• Discipline
  Students should note that commitment, dedication, and discipline are the main focus areas of life in the  Gurukul.
• Relationship with Guru
  Students should respect the relationship with their guru. They should make sure that they are following the instructions of their guru.
• Gurukul Rules
  All the students of the Vedic Gurukul have to follow Gurukul rules. There are very few chances for communication with their family.  

Recent Trends 

Vedic Gurukuls in India are experiencing a resurgence. They are attracting students from several parts of India. Some foreign students are also getting enrolled in such gurukuls. This section covers the recent trends in Vedic education. 

Defects in the Modern Education System
Some people feel that the students in modern schools experience excess pressure. Parents and students seek alternatives.

Spiritual Growth
The Gurukul system offers a path for the spiritual growth of the students. Students get a chance to establish their connection with the divine energies. 

Focus on Values
Parents focussing on good values and ethical conduct see Vedic Gurukuls as a good option for their children. 

Future of Vedic Gurukuls 

The future of Vedic Gurukuls in India is promising. Moving forward Vedic Gurukuls in India would be required to incorporate modern approaches to education while preserving their core values. 

Accessibility and Affordability
Moving in the future, the establishment of more and more Vedic Gurukuls would ensure easy accessibility of these Gurukuls for the students. Importantly, Gurukul fees can be a barrier for some students. Gurukuls can consider offering scholarships to deserving students.

Standardization
Credibility is an important aspect of education. Uniformity in quality standards across the gurukuls can ensure trust and credibility.

Final Glimpse

Vedic Gurukuls offer education based on the Vedas to the students. Vedic Gurukuls offer a unique and enriching experience. Simplicity is the hallmark of Vedic Gurukul life. Students in Vedic Gurukul embrace austerity. 

They live a disciplined life and focus on learning and self-growth. Studying in the Vedic Gurukuls helps the students in connecting with their heritage. This blog post covers all the important details of Vedic Gurukuls in India. People worry about finding the right Vedic Gurukul in India. Not anymore. 

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q.What are Vedic Gurukuls?

A.Vedic Gurukuls are educational centres. Students studying in these gurukuls receive an education based on the Vedas.

Q.How many Vedic Gurukuls are there in India?

A.There are many Vedic Gurukuls located in India. More than 3000 Vedic Gurukuls are located in the country.

Q.Where are Vedic Gurukuls located?

A.Vedic Gurukuls are located in almost every state. The maximum number of Vedic Gurukuls are located in Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka.

Q.What are the benefits of Vedic Gurukuls?

A.Students studying in Vedic Gurukuls learn lessons from the scriptures based on the Vedas. Life in the gurukuls is based on simplicity and discipline.