Mangaluru: Indian Knowledge System (IKS) Centre was inaugurated at St Agnes College Friday, with Vivek Alva, managing trustee of Alva’s Education Foundation, calling for a broader and more inclusive understanding of India’s history.After launching the centre, Alva said history should not be viewed through a religious lens as it limits appreciation of the depth and diversity of the IKS. He said public discourse often focuses on figures such as Tipu Sultan and Chhatrapati Shivaji, while contributions from the Northeast are frequently overlooked.
Alva said textbooks carry limited references to the Northeast, reflecting an inadequate understanding of its historical and cultural role. He stressed that the region made significant contributions to India’s history and deserves better representation.Calling IKS a 4,000-year-old tradition shaped by many regions and communities, Alva referred to Tulunadu’s diversity and said its identity extends beyond language, with Tulu having a long and distinct history.He also cited the Basel Mission’s influence, mentioning contributions from Mangalore tiles and police khaki to the printing press, and noted their work on a dictionary after engaging closely with local language and culture.Sr Venessa, principal of the college, said the IKS Centre is envisioned as a hub to rediscover, preserve, and promote India’s intellectual traditions and encourage dialogue between traditional wisdom and modern scholarship.
