Relevance of the Guru-Shishya Parampara to Modern-Day Mentorship

Abstract

Mentorship is defined as a professional relationship, whereby a mentee and mentor are matched to share professional and personal skills and experiences, as well as enhance career development. It has been in existence for many centuries, and in several South Asian cultures, mentorship took place through an ancient tradition called the guru-shishya parampara. In a unique and innovative pedagogical approach, a guru (teacher) assumed comprehensive responsibility for a shishya (student), providing education, guidance, and support in every aspect of life, following the tradition of parampara, the succession of knowledge from one guru to the next. A good shishya had the following attributes: smriti (memory), medha (intelligence), shlanga (merit), raga (devotion and dedication), sangharsha (hard work), and utsaha (enthusiasm). Under the guru’s tutelage, the student acquired a multi-​faceted education, encompassing science, warfare, critical thinking, linguistics, agriculture, dance, music, and arts. Practicing yoga was important for spiritual progress. Skills, knowledge, and wisdom were passed down from generation to generation. The philosophical pursuit of knowledge, its seeking and giving, was equated with power and status, making both guru and shishya aware of their mutually beneficial relationship.