Sanatana Dharma & Reformist Movements
This Proposed learning Capsule is non-credit, informal, and intended for general educational and informational purposes only. They do not constitute a course or academic program.
FACILITATOR / INSTRUCTOR GUIDE
Capsule: Learning Sanatana Dharma – Reformist Movements
Duration: 6 Hours (3 sessions × 2 hours)
Description
This capsule investigates the eternal framework of Sanatana Dharma and its dynamic re-interpretation through reformist movements from the 19th century onward. The lives and philosophies of key figures such as Swami Vivekananda, Dayananda Saraswati, and Sri Aurobindo are discussed.
Learning Objectives
- Comprehend the foundational tenets of Sanatana Dharma.
- Recognize the spiritual and socio-political challenges addressed by reformers.
- Analyze the interplay between tradition and transformation.
- Reflect on dharma’s adaptability and timeless values.
Curriculum
- Session 1: Eternal Principles – Karma, Rebirth, Dharma
- Session 2: Colonial Encounters and the Rise of Reformers
- Session 3: Swami Vivekananda, Dayanand Saraswati & Aurobindo’s Vision
Learning Outcomes
- Understand Sanatana Dharma as a perennial system
- Learn how reformers balanced tradition and progress
- Develop a historical and cultural appreciation of dharma’s evolution
Structure Overview
Session. Title Duration Delivery Mode Key Focus
1 Sanatana Dharma: Foundations 2 hrs Live / Recorded Eternal principles and practices
2 Colonial Encounter & Response 2 hrs Live / Recorded Renaissance and critique
3 Key Reformers 2 hrs Live / Recorded Dayananda, Aurobindo, Vivekanand
Facilitator’s Spiritual Grounding
- Invoke your lineage (Guru-parampara) or personal Ishta Devata before the session.
- Anchor the session with a brief sankalpa: ‘May this knowledge serve the welfare of all beings and the environment.’
- Maintain a compassionate, non-judgmental tone; honor śraddhā (faith) and viveka (discernment).
Learner Engagement Tips
- Begin with a short invocation or 3 rounds of Om; end with a Shanti Mantra.
- Use Sanskrit terms with clear English gloss; invite questions with humility.
- Incorporate dyads (pair-sharing) and brief journaling to deepen reflection.
- Leverage breakout rooms (for live) or forum prompts (for LMS) for peer learning.
Assessment Plan
Type Method Purpose
Reflection Short journal entry or verbal check-in Gauge insight and personal integration
Quiz MCQ (8–10 items) per lecture Check understanding of key concepts
Certificate Attendance + quiz ≥ 60% + assignment Eligibility for e-Certificate
Post-Capsule Wrap-Up
- Share slides, recordings (if any), and reading list PDFs.
- Collect feedback ; compile insights for the future improvement.
- Suggest next-step pathways (advanced capsule or full program).
Fees:
The Registration Fee is USD 25.
We support excellence by providing merit-based scholarships and fee waivers to deserving students. If you need fee waiver or scholarship, apply here. Application for Fee waiver or Scholarship
Start Dates:
All capsule sessions will be offered four times a year, scheduled in alignment with the Vedic Calendar.
1. Uttarāyaṇa Period (Winter Solstice): Dec. 21 to 20 March
2. Devayāna Period (Vernal Equinox): 21 March to 20 June
3. Dakṣiṇāyana Period (Summer Solstice): 21 June to 22 Sept.
4. Pitṛyāna period (Autumn Equinox): 23 Sept. to 20 Dec.
Note: Access will remain open only for the specified duration. Participants are advised to complete and access all learning materials within this period, as access will not be available once the window closes.