Kshetram- The inner space
Along from the delight of traveling, and taking in the exquisite tapestry of India opening up in-front of your eyes, listen in to some enchanting stories from ancient Indian epics and parables. Listen to the original Sanskrit verses and then tune into the intent over a discussion on the meaning and context of the events.. Kshetram is meant to be quite simply what it means – a space. Kshetram is a space to explore and learn and find one’s own identity in a perplexing world. Kshetram is an attempt to provide a catalyst, an environment where a mind can search for its own space. Kshetram provides a forum for discussion and exposure to ideas that are increasingly difficult to obtain in the present context along with the experience of living and traveling close to the land.
The Kshetram experience can be indulged in at any trip – be it after a trek, in temples or while unwinding on the banks of a river. Any trip can be converted into a Kshetram trip. The Kshetram experience consists primarily of readings from the Panchatantram and other works of Sanskrit literature. Kshetram will be conducted by Krishnan.
Readings from the Panchatantra and other works of Sanskrit literature:
The Panchatantram is a timeless work composed many centuries ago by Vishnu Sharman. It is a collection of five books, each expounding upon a topic relevant to dealing with the world. Each book in turn contains numerous interconnected stories generously interspersed with pithy sayings (Subhaashitaani) that bring forth various important learning in life. The style of writing is characterized by a brilliant use of the Sanskrit language. The writings as they stand in the original Sanskrit version are intended to appeal to a thinking mind. The stories cover facets of life from business and livelihood to politics, family relationships, religion and the environment. Set in the villages, towns and forests of ancient India, the stories are sure to ignite imagination and give a glimpse of the rich cultural heritage of our country. It is proposed to read the basic work in Sanskrit and then give a short account of the reading in English followed by a discussion. This exercise, it is hoped, will also give you a chance to experience first hand the beauty of Sanskrit literature. Apart from the Panchatantram, readings from a selection of great works of Indian literature in Sanskrit will also be presented.