Nurturing Minds through Pedagogical Love for Inclusion: An Indian Perspective
摘要
Background: This paper delves into the transformative potential of pedagogical love in fostering inclusiveness, drawing inspiration from Indian culture and traditions. It explores how ancient Indian literature, including the Vedas, Upanishads, and the Bhagavad Gita, emphasizes the concept of pedagogical love. This love, resonating with the ancient Indian philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, envisions the world as one family. It transcends mere knowledge transmission, embodying the nurturing role of a ‘Guru’ who cultivates wisdom and inclusivity. This approach fosters an appreciation of diverse perspectives and compassion, extending education beyond the classroom and connecting deeply with timeless wisdom. Aim: The paper aims to explore themes of pedagogical love in ancient Indian texts, using both historical and contemporary examples. These texts highlight the role of pedagogical love in reshaping societies, emphasizing cultural practices, festivals, and traditions as catalysts for fostering belonging and unity among diverse communities in India. This exploration underscores the transformative power of pedagogical love in nurturing inclusivity. Methodology: Utilizing a qualitative exploratory research methodology, the paper employs thematic analysis of ancient Indian literature through a hermeneutic lens. This includes the Vedic texts, Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, and Kautilya’s Arthashastra, to uncover insights on pedagogical love within teaching and learning dynamics. Conclusion: The paper reveals that the transformative potential of pedagogical love rooted in ancient Indian philosophy fosters inclusion. By drawing from the diverse facets of Indian culture, it advocates for the continued cultivation of pedagogical love as a force for nurturing wise, inclusive citizens deeply connected to their cultural roots.