Adarsh Kelavaninu Upnishad - Book Summary

This text is a compilation of essays and research papers presented at the "Jain Sahitya Gnyan Satra - 14" (Jain Literature Knowledge Symposium - 14) held in Amreli on June 17-18, 2016. The overarching theme of the symposium and the book is "Adarsh Kelavinu Upnishad" (The Upanishad of Ideal Education).

The book, edited by Gunvant Barvalia and published by Arham Spiritual Centre, delves into various aspects of ideal education, emphasizing its spiritual and moral dimensions alongside intellectual development. It brings together the thoughts of scholars and experts from different fields, including educationists, philosophers, and spiritual leaders.

Here's a summary of the key themes and contributions discussed in the text:

Core Themes of Ideal Education:

Holistic Development: The essays consistently argue for an education that goes beyond mere academic knowledge and aims for the all-round development of an individual – physical, mental, intellectual, emotional, spiritual, and aesthetic.
Values and Morality: A significant focus is placed on inculcating moral values, ethics, and character development. Many contributors highlight the importance of "Naitik Shikshan" (Moral Education) as an indispensable necessity in contemporary times, given the societal challenges.
Spirituality and Religion: The interconnectedness of religion and education for spiritual development is explored. The thoughts of Jain philosophers and Swaminarayan saints on education are presented, underscoring the role of spirituality in shaping a balanced life.
Creativity and Sensitivity: The need for education to foster creativity and sensitivity in students is emphasized, especially in the face of increasing mechanization and materialism.
Critique of the Current Education System: Several essays offer a critical analysis of the existing education system, pointing out its shortcomings, such as rote learning, examination-centric approach, lack of practical application, commercialization, and the disconnect from real-life needs and values.
The Role of the Teacher: The profound influence of the teacher-student relationship is highlighted as the foundation of true education. The teacher is seen not just as an instructor but as a guide, mentor, and exemplar of virtues.
Mother Tongue and Cultural Roots: The importance of mother tongue as a medium of education is passionately argued, with a strong emphasis on preserving cultural heritage and values.
Experiential and Activity-Based Learning: The essays advocate for learning through experience, activities, and practical engagement rather than solely relying on theoretical knowledge. This includes the importance of sports, arts, crafts, and community involvement.
Addressing Societal Issues: The book connects education to broader societal issues like poverty, inequality, environmental protection, and national integration, suggesting that education should equip individuals to contribute to solving these problems.
Adaptability and Innovation: The need for education to evolve with the changing times, incorporate new technologies, and adapt to global demands while retaining its core humanistic values is stressed.

Key Contributors and Their Focus Areas (as indicated by their essay titles):

Padmashri Dr. Kumar Pal Desai: "Shikshan: Sarjanatmakta ane Sanvedanshilatani Kataki" (Education: The Crisis of Creativity and Sensitivity) - Discusses the current state of education and the need for developing creativity and sensitivity in students.
Dr. Motibhai M. Patel: "Kelavani Kshetrama Sandarbhe Mulyoni Sankalpana" (The Concept of Values in the Field of Education) - Explores the definition, types, and importance of values in education.
Dr. Daudbhai Ghanchi: "Manav Sanskrutinu Adhar Bal Santulit Jivan Darshan Viksavnari Kelavani" (Education that Develops Balanced Life Philosophy – The Backbone of Human Culture) - Emphasizes education's role in developing a balanced life philosophy for holistic human development.
Dr. Balwant Jani: "Naitik Shikshan: Aajni Anivarya Avashyakta" (Moral Education: Today's Indispensable Necessity) - Argues for the critical need for moral education in contemporary society.
Shri Karshanbhai Luhar: "Soti Sav Khoti" (The Stick is Completely Wrong) - A critical piece against the use of corporal punishment in schools, advocating for a more compassionate approach.
Gunvant Barvalia: "Vyakti ma Rehela Beejbhoot Vyaktitvne Pragat Kare tej Sachi Kelavani" (True education is that which brings forth the inherent personality in an individual) - Focuses on nurturing the innate potential of each student.
Moolshankar M. Bhatt: "Kelavani ane Manviy Mulyo" (Education and Human Values) - Discusses the integral relationship between education and human values.
Father Wallace: "I.M.P." (Important) - A satirical piece on the narrow, examination-focused approach to education.
Dr. P.G. Patel: "Ghatak Pariksha Hatavo" (Abolish Fatal Examinations) - Critiques the current examination system and advocates for its reform.
Manilal Prajapati: "Shikshan ma Sanshodhan: Dasha ane Disha" (Research in Education: Condition and Direction) - Analyzes the state and future of research in education.
Kishorbhai Mehta: "Shaikshanik Sansthano na Sanchalan na Prashno" (Issues in the Management of Educational Institutions) - Discusses the challenges faced by educational institutions.
Sudhaben P. Khandheria: "Adarsh Shaikshanik Abhyaskram" (Ideal Educational Curriculum) - Focuses on the components and characteristics of an ideal curriculum.
Gulabhbhai Jani: "Vaikalpik Shikshan Vyavastha" (Alternative Education System) - Proposes alternative models of education, drawing inspiration from thinkers like A.S. Neill and John Holt.
Prof. Ramlal Parikh: "Paryavaraniy Shikshan - Navi Sadani Mang" (Environmental Education - The Demand of the New Century) - Highlights the importance of environmental education in the modern era.
Pu. Shri. Moraribapu: "Nirikshan karta Shikhve te Shikshan" (Education that teaches observation) - Emphasizes the significance of observational learning and the role of the teacher as a guide.
Ratilal Borisaagar: "Matrubhasha dwara Shikshan: Bhavatmak Drushtikon" (Education through Mother Tongue: An Emotional Perspective) - Argues passionately for mother tongue-based education and its impact on emotional and cultural development.
Dr. Ratanben Khimji Chhadva: "Jain Darshan ma Kelavani Vichar" (Educational Thoughts in Jain Philosophy) - Explores the principles of education within the Jain tradition, highlighting its emphasis on holistic development and ethical conduct.
Mansukh Salla: "Kelavani ni Buniyad: Shikshak-Vidyarthi Sambandh" (The Foundation of Education: Teacher-Student Relationship) - Stresses the crucial role of a strong teacher-student relationship for effective learning.
Dr. Bhadrayu Vachharajani: "Shikshan Sathe Kheklkud ni Talim" (Sports Training with Education) - Discusses the importance of integrating sports and physical education with academics.
Dr. Sejal Shah: "Jain Darshan ma Shikshan: Kelavani taraf na Marg'e" (Education in Jain Philosophy: On the Path of Learning) - Further delves into Jain philosophical perspectives on education.
Dr. Devvallabh Swami: "Shri Swaminarayan Dharm ma Kelavani Vichar" (Educational Thoughts in the Swaminarayan Religion) - Presents the educational philosophy within the Swaminarayan tradition.
Swati behen Navalkant Joshi: "Adarsh Kelavani" (Ideal Education) - Offers personal reflections and observations on ideal education based on experiences.
Jasingbhai Dabhi: "Gujarat ma Nai Talim no Vikas" (Development of New Education in Gujarat) - Traces the history and progress of the "Nai Talim" movement in Gujarat, inspired by Mahatma Gandhi.
Dr. Vasantbhai Parikh: "Kimi Atra Lupta Saraswati ?" (Where is Saraswati Hidden?) - Critiques the current state of education and laments the loss of true learning.
A Collective Reflection: "Shu Pariksha Anivarya Dooshan' j Bani Raheshe?" (Will Examination Remain an Inevitable Evil?) - A group discussion on the problematic nature of examinations.

The book serves as a comprehensive resource for understanding the contemporary discourse on education in India, particularly from a Jain philosophical and ethical perspective, while also engaging with broader educational ideas and critiques.