Gurukul education has become increasingly popular in Nepal due to a shortage of Guru Purohit in villages. However, traditional Gurukul schools face challenges in their operation due to the free teaching model.
Baijanath Adhikari Early Sanskrit Vidyapeeth Baijanath Adhikari Early Sanskrit Vidyapeeth, located in Letang-9, Jante, Morang, is a university that offers formal education up to class 4, as well as teachings in Chandi, Rudri, Vedas, Gita, Amarkosh, Nyaya, Bhasha, and Grammar. The school was established on land donated by a local education enthusiast, and students who complete their studies become Guru Purohit. Currently, 26 Brahmin children are receiving Gurukul education at the school.
History of Gurukul Education in Jante The people of Jante wrote the Mahapuran on the occasion of the centenary of human settlement in Jante in the year 2066. Late Khemraj Keshavasaran, a scholar of Eastern scriptures, recited the Mahayagya, collecting land and cash donations for the establishment of Gurukul. After Khemraj Keshavasaran passed away, local Ambika Prasad Adhikari continued the tradition of free Purana reading. As a result, one and a half bigha of land and 1.3 million rupees were accumulated for the construction and operation of the temple and Gurukul.
Challenges Facing Traditional Gurukul Schools Baijanath Adhikari Early Sanskrit Vidyapeeth faces challenges in its operation due to the free teaching model. Although locals provide donations for food, it is difficult to pay teachers' salaries. The school receives some support from the Letang Municipality and Maharshi Foundation, but it is not enough. As a result, the school has had to stop accepting more students due to the lack of resources to pay regular salaries to three teachers.
The Value of Studying Sanskrit Studying Sanskrit provides opportunities for students to become skilled in both Sanskrit and technical fields. While the government has yet to support Gurukul education in Nepal, it is essential to recognize the value of reading and teaching Sanskrit as the teacher of all languages.
Overall, Despite the challenges facing traditional Gurukul schools, they continue to provide a unique educational opportunity for students to become Guru Purohit and skilled in Sanskrit. If the government and local communities continue to support Gurukul education, it may become a viable alternative to studying Sanskrit in India.
Published on 22 March 2023
Morang
