The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) has introduced a new Master of Arts (MA) program in Bhagavad Gita Studies, starting from the 2024-2025 academic session. According to the university’s coordinator, Chandrashekhar Bhardwaj, admissions for the course have already begun. The official notification for this program was released on July 3, 2024, and the registration process has commenced at the IGNOU center in Meerut. Students can register online and will study all 18 chapters and 700 verses of the Bhagavad Gita, with the course offered in Hindi.
Eligibility and Course Structure
The eligibility requirement for the MA in Bhagavad Gita Studies is a Bachelor’s degree or higher from any recognized university, making the program accessible to a broader audience, including those without a prior background in religious or philosophical studies.
- Duration: 2 years
- Fees: ₹6,300 per year, totaling ₹12,600 for the entire program
- Mode: Open and Distance Learning (ODL), allowing students from across the globe to participate
The curriculum provides an in-depth exploration of the philosophical, ethical, and spiritual dimensions of the Bhagavad Gita.
Program Leadership and Content
The program will be conducted by Dr. Devesh Kumar Mishra, a respected scholar in Hindu studies. Dr. Mishra played a pivotal role in developing the curriculum, ensuring it covers a wide range of perspectives on the Bhagavad Gita.
The course will be offered through IGNOU’s School of Humanities, and students will have access to printed materials and digital resources to enhance their learning experience.
Approval and Special Attention
The course received official approval on December 19, 2023, during IGNOU’s 81st Academic Council Meeting. While the meeting introduced several new programs, the MA in Bhagavad Gita Studies has attracted special attention due to its focus on one of Hinduism’s most revered philosophical texts.
This program aims to cater to students interested in deepening their understanding of the Bhagavad Gita and its teachings, offering a comprehensive study through the flexible learning options provided by IGNOU.
