IDA Blog | Timeless Wisdom for Lifelong Learning
Anjali Nair, Principal, SDPS International School
काक चेष्टा बको ध्यानं, श्वान निद्रा तथैव च | अल्पाहारी गृहत्यागी, विद्यार्थी पंच लक्षणम् ||
Education is not just about acquiring knowledge; it is about developing the right qualities to succeed in life. The Sanskrit shloka Kak Cheshta, Bako Dhyanam, Shwan Nidra Tathaiva Cha, Alpahari, Grihatyagi, Vidyarthi Panch Lakshanam beautifully encapsulates the essential virtues a student must cultivate. It translates to:
- Kak Cheshta (Effort like a crow) – Just as a crow is resourceful and persistent in its endeavors, students must exhibit relentless effort and curiosity in learning. They should actively seek knowledge, be inquisitive, and never shy away from challenges.
- Bako Dhyanam (Focus like a crane) – A crane waits patiently for the right moment to catch its prey, demonstrating deep concentration and mindfulness. Students must learn to focus on their studies with dedication, blocking out distractions and prioritizing their academic and personal growth.
- Shwan Nidra (Alertness like a dog) – A dog sleeps lightly, always remaining vigilant. Similarly, students should develop attentiveness, awareness, and the ability to grasp opportunities and respond to challenges promptly.
- Alpahari (Moderate in eating) – A student should not only practice restraint in food consumption but also in feeding the mind. Just as a balanced diet nourishes the body, a balanced intake of thoughts and experiences nourishes the intellect and soul. Students should engage with positive, enriching content that fosters growth and keep their minds free from distractions and unnecessary indulgences. By cultivating a habit of mindful consumption—whether it be in food, media, or social interactions—they can enhance their concentration, maintain emotional stability, and develop a focused approach toward learning.
- Grihatyagi (Detached from home comforts) – To gain true wisdom, a student must detach from excessive comfort and develop resilience. This does not mean neglecting family but rather embracing challenges and opportunities for growth beyond familiar surroundings
As a school, it is our responsibility to foster these qualities in students. Through engaging teaching methods, experiential learning, and disciplined routines, we encourage effort and curiosity. Mindfulness programs, meditation, and structured study techniques help students cultivate focus. Encouraging participation in debates, discussions, and real-world problem-solving nurtures alertness and responsiveness.
By instilling these timeless values, we prepare students to become not just academically proficient but also resilient and adaptable individuals ready to navigate the complexities of life. As educators, our role is to guide them in developing these qualities so they can truly excel in all aspects of life.
Education extends beyond textbooks; it is about shaping individuals who are resilient, focused, and proactive. The essence of this Sanskrit teaching is timeless, urging students to be diligent, mindful, and vigilant in their pursuits. By embedding these qualities into our educational framework, we strive to create confident, well-rounded individuals who can make meaningful contributions to society and lead with wisdom and integrity.
