Meerut University Incorporates Communication Models Inspired by the Ramayana and Mahabharata into its Journalism Curriculum

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Meerut University Incorporates Communication Models Inspired by the Ramayana and Mahabharata into its Journalism Curriculum

Image Source: Times of India

Meerut: Chaudhary Charan Singh University (CCSU), commonly known as Meerut University, has launched a new paper titled ‘Bhartiya Sanchar ke Praroop’ (Models of Indian Communication) as part of its MA in Journalism and Mass Communication (MA-JMC) program. The course aims to familiarize students with traditional communication practices rooted in ancient Indian epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata, officials said on Saturday.

Professor Prashant Kumar, director of the Tilak School of Journalism and Mass Communication (TSJMC) at CCSU, explained that the paper is intended to blend India’s rich cultural and intellectual legacy with modern journalism training.

He highlighted Sanjay’s divine narration of the Kurukshetra war to the blind King Dhritarashtra as an early form of “live reporting” and noted Hanuman’s role as a crucial communicator between Lord Rama and Goddess Sita as another example.

“So far, our studies have focused mainly on Western communication models, even though India has a vast repository of indigenous knowledge,” said Kumar. “Now, we’re turning our attention to our own traditions, which reflect our culture more authentically.”

Drawing parallels with how the Bhagavad Gita is incorporated into management studies worldwide, Kumar emphasised that ancient Indian communication techniques—many of which are thousands of years old—continue to be relevant today.

The course goes beyond mythology, covering notable historical and spiritual figures such as Maharshi Narad—often described as the first communicator—as well as Krishna, Gautam Buddha, Mahavir, Emperor Ashoka, Adi Shankaracharya, and Maharshi Patanjali, each recognized for their unique communication styles.

Kumar clarified that the goal is not to discard Western frameworks but to give Indian traditions equal footing. He also referenced traditional systems like Shruti (oral transmission) and Smriti (memory-based knowledge), which played vital roles in preserving and disseminating information through generations.

Additionally, the syllabus includes an innovative section on “food as communication,” exploring how different foods can influence human emotions. The course will also integrate cultural history and modern tools like artificial intelligence.

Team Profile

Aryan Gulati
Aryan GulatiFreelance Journalist
Aryan Gulati is a dedicated media student based in Meerut with a wealth of experience in various newspapers and media houses. He has numerous published articles and specializes in political and crime news writing, demonstrating a strong commitment to impactful journalism.

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