Course Title: Diploma in Hindu Studies (Scientific Hinduism)

Course Code: DHS-103

Duration: 1 Year (2 Semesters)

Eligibility: Open to all with interest in Hindu thought (High School minimum preferred)

Credits: 24 Total (12 per semester)

Mode: Online (Self-paced + Live sessions) and Optional In-Person Learning

Language of Instruction: English (with Sanskrit/Devanagari references)

Course Objectives

• Provide a foundational and broad understanding of Hinduism as a living, evolving tradition.
• Explore classical texts (Vedas, Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, Ramayana, etc.) in translation.
• Develop awareness of Hindu philosophy, spiritual disciplines, social ethics, and festivals.
• Promote intercultural understanding, interfaith dialogue, and moral leadership.

Course Overview:

This diploma program provides an in-depth understanding of Hinduism as a philosophical, spiritual, and cultural tradition. It covers classical scriptures, ethical teachings, rituals, and contemporary relevance. Designed for spiritual seekers, educators, chaplains, interfaith leaders, and scholars.

Semester I Modules:

1. Introduction to Hinduism (3 credits)

• Origins and evolution
• Basic beliefs and concepts
• Devatas and practices
• Diversity within Hindu traditions

2. Vedas and Upanishads: Core Teachings (3 credits)

• Structure of Vedas
• Selected hymns
• Isha, Kena, Mandukya Upanishads
• Themes: Atman, Brahman, Moksha

3. Hindu Philosophy I (3 credits)

• Nyaya, Vaisheshika
• Samkhya and Yoga
• Mimamsa, Vedanta (Advaita, Dvaita, Vishishtadvaita and Traita)

4. Hindu Rituals and Festivals (3 credits)

• 4 Aśramas
• 16 Samskaras
• Daily and seasonal Yajnas
• Festival calendar
• Symbolism and Allegories

Semester II Modules:

5. Bhagavad Gita: Ethics and Action (3 credits)

• Historical context
• Karma Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, Jnana Yoga
• Dharma and moral dilemmas
• Ramayana and Mahabharata (3 credits)
• Characters, values, and narrative arcs
• Influence on art and culture

7. Hindu Dharmasastras: Manusmriti (3 credits)
8. Hinduism and Contemporary Society (3 credits)

• Gender, caste, ecology, pluralism
• Symbols and Allegries in Hinduism
• Diaspora and globalization

Assessment:

• Module quizzes and reflections
• Two mid-term essays
• Final term paper or presentation
• Participation in discussions and live sessions
• Optional Components:
• Sanskrit pronunciation labs
• Weekly guided meditation or mantra sessions
• Field assignment with a local Hindu temple or community

• Course Fees: 

  1. All live online (Zoom Class)  courses are offered free of charge. Participants are welcome to make voluntary donations at our donation page during or after the course to support its continuation and delivery. For live online course, one can enroll here.

  2. Self-paced digital correspondence (email based) and pre-recorded video courses can be opted  only by the Members . Members will be given a password to access the course/courses of their choice available during that period.  If you want to opt for self-paced digital correspondence or pre-recorded video courses,  you shall have to apply for any types of membership offered by  the VSVV.   

  Commencement of Course:

  •  Live Online Courses: Once 60 registrations are received for a particular course, the start date of live online free course will be announced on the portal. We encourage you to regularly check the portal for updates.
  • Available Digital correspondence and Pre-recorded Video course can  be started at any time by the Members.  

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