Year: 2026 | Month: May | Volume: 13 | Issue: 5 | Pages: 462-474
DOI: https://doi.org/10.52403/ijrr.20260542
Indigenous Roots of Social Emotional Learning: Insights from the Bhagavad Gita with a Sample Classroom Lesson Plan
Dr. Shweta Bhardwaj
Associate Professor, Department of Education, Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Government Girls PG College, Aliganj, Lucknow, UP
ABSTRACT
Contemporary Social Emotional Learning (SEL) frameworks emphasize competencies such as self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making. While these competencies are often presented as modern psychological constructs, many of their foundational ideas are deeply embedded in indigenous philosophical traditions. This paper explores the Bhagavad Gita as a rich indigenous knowledge source that parallels and extends modern SEL frameworks. Through a qualitative textual analysis of selected verses, the study maps core SEL competencies onto key Gita concepts such as ātma-bodha (self-knowledge), samatva (equanimity), karuṇā (compassion), dharma (ethical duty), and yoga (integrated self-regulation). Further, the paper translates these theoretical insights into pedagogical practice by presenting a sample SEL-integrated lesson plan for primary classrooms, demonstrating how Gita-based principles can be operationalized through structured activities, reflective exercises, and classroom interactions. This practical illustration bridges the gap between philosophical understanding and classroom implementation. The findings suggest that the Bhagavad Gita offers a culturally grounded, holistic, and ethically enriched model of SEL that not only aligns with contemporary frameworks but also enhances their depth and contextual relevance. Such integration holds significant potential for developing emotionally balanced, socially responsible, and ethically aware learners within the Indian educational context.
Keywords: Social Emotional Learning, Bhagavad Gita, Indigenous Knowledge, Emotional Regulation, Ethical Education
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