Swami Mukundananda Honoured by INDICA

Swami Mukundananda, a revered spiritual leader and founder of JKYog, was recently honoured by INDICA for his exceptional and selfless contributions to Sanatan Dharma. Dr. S. Ramaratnam, Chancellor of Jagadguru Kripalu University, received the prestigious award on his behalf during a ceremony held in Chennai. This recognition underscores Swami Mukundananda's dedication to spreading the timeless wisdom of Indian scriptures and his role in nurturing spiritual growth across the globe.

In Indian tradition, Gurus hold a sacred and pivotal position as enlightened masters who impart knowledge and wisdom to their students. This transmission of knowledge is not merely academic; it encompasses the entire spectrum of human purpose, from Dharma (righteousness) to Moksha (liberation). Gurus guide their disciples with selfless love, expecting nothing in return, embodying the highest ideals of the Guru-Shishya parampara (teacher-disciple tradition). The Indian tradition reveres Gurus as the "dispellers of darkness," whose grace and guidance are essential for both material and spiritual success.

Throughout history, Gurus have been the bedrock of spiritual and cultural continuity in India. They have anchored communities, inspired leaders, and preserved the essence of Dharma during times of crisis. From Adi Shankaracharya's revival of the Upanishadic tradition to Swami Vidyaranya's support in establishing the Vijayanagara Empire, Gurus have played a crucial role in shaping the destiny of our civilisation. Their teachings have seamlessly integrated Jnana (knowledge), Bhakti (devotion), and Karma (action), guiding countless souls on their path to spiritual realisation.

In recognition of the invaluable contributions of contemporary Gurus, INDICA launched the #Grateful2Gurus initiative in 2016. This program honours living Gurus for their civilisational contributions, offering a platform to express gratitude for their guidance and wisdom. Initially celebrated by local chapters, the initiative expanded in 2018 to include nominations and felicitations across India.

After a brief hiatus, INDICA relaunched the program in 2023, culminating in the felicitation of 40 Gurus through a grand event in Chennai and at their respective residences. This year's celebration on July 21st featured eminent personalities, including Prof. Gautam Desiraju, as the Chief Guest. The #Grateful2Gurus program continues to be vital to INDICA's mission to preserve and promote India's spiritual heritage by honouring those who embody its timeless wisdom.

INDICA is an institute dedicated to preserving, protecting, and promoting Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS). It envisions a world where the wisdom of Indic heritage fosters health, happiness, and harmony for all beings. INDICA's holistic approach encompasses the textual, experiential, and embodied traditions of IKS, with a mission to bridge the gap between ancient Gurukulams and modern universities, practitioners and academics, and Indic and non-Indic knowledge systems.

Through its discipline-specific centres, INDICA conducts research, develops curricula, and offers educational opportunities such as certificate and diploma programs, academic conferences, and workshops. It supports changemakers—thought Leaders, Social Entrepreneurs, and regional cultural leaders—by nurturing their growth and celebrating their achievements. Guided by the core value of Dharmic pluralism, INDICA remains committed to advancing the rich and diverse traditions of Sanatan Dharma for the benefit of all humanity.