Fri Jun 27 19:34:07 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary and news article based on the provided text:
**Summary:**
Delhi University’s Political Science department is proposing a new elective course for first-year postgraduate students called ‘Reading Bhagavad Gita’. The course aims to explore the Gita’s universal teachings, socio-ethical relevance, and practical applications in modern times. It will cover topics such as Jnana Yoga, Karma Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, the nature of the self, and Dhanya Yoga. The course also looks to explore Sthitaprajna, Svadharma, and Niskam Karma. The proposed readings include works by Swami Vivekananda, Sri Aurobindo, and Bal Gangadhar Tilak. Some faculty members are raising concerns that the syllabus leans towards a “Hindutva agenda” by excluding critical perspectives on the Gita from thinkers like Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and Periyar. Other members of the Standing Committee defending the course, saying it will be exposing students to concepts that will liberate them. The proposal is scheduled for discussion and potential approval in upcoming academic meetings.
**News Article:**
**Delhi University to Consider Course on Bhagavad Gita Amidst Controversy**
*NEW DELHI, June 28, 2025* – Delhi University’s Political Science department is set to debate and vote on a proposal for a new elective course titled “Reading Bhagavad Gita” for first-year postgraduate students. The course, designed within the framework of the revised Postgraduate Curriculum, aims to explore the Bhagavad Gita’s teachings and their relevance to modern society, focusing on concepts like Karma Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, and the nature of the self.
The course objectives outline the intention to enhance critical thinking, emotional resilience, and decision-making skills among students by applying the Gita’s principles to contemporary challenges. The proposed readings include works by prominent figures such as Swami Vivekananda, Sri Aurobindo, and Bal Gangadhar Tilak.
However, the proposal is already facing criticism from within the department. Prof. N. Sukumar argues that the curriculum appears biased, lacking diverse perspectives, particularly those critical of the Gita, from thinkers like Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and Periyar. He contends that the course may serve a “Hindutva agenda” rather than a purely academic one.
Conversely, Harendra Nath Tiwari, a member of the Standing Committee, defended the course, stating that it would “expose students to concepts that will liberate them.” He dismissed concerns about the exclusion of Ambedkar and Periyar, arguing that this context was not the appropriate place for their work.
The proposal is scheduled to be discussed at the Standing Committee on Academic Affairs meeting on July 1st. If approved, it will then be presented to the Academic Council on July 5th, which holds the final authority on curriculum changes. The outcome of these meetings will determine whether the “Reading Bhagavad Gita” course becomes a part of the university’s postgraduate program, and whether the concerns regarding its potential bias are addressed.
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