NEWS: In the 135th episode of Mann Ki Baat, the Prime Minister lauded Nalanda University for reviving the ancient Indian tradition of Shastrarth (scholarly debate).

ABOUT SHASTRARTH

• Shastrarth à Ancient Indian tradition of structured, disciplined, and evidence-based philosophical debate.
• Derived from 'Shastra' (scriptures/knowledge) and 'Artha' (meaning/interpretation).
• Aimed at discovering objective truth through logical reasoning rather than winning arguments.
• Widely practiced in ancient centres of learning such as Nalanda, Takshashila, and Vikramashila.

HISTORICAL BACKGROUND

• Originated in the Vedic and Upanishadic period.
• Mentioned in Sabhas and Samitis of ancient India.

Famous debates include:

• Adi Shankaracharya vs Mandana Misra (8th century).
• Swami Dayanand Saraswati's Kashi debate (1869).

KEY FEATURES

• Purva Paksha: Present the opponent's viewpoint accurately before criticising it.
• Uttara Paksha: Logical rebuttal supported by facts and reasoning.
• Pramana: Every argument must be supported by valid sources of knowledge such as Pratyaksha (perception) and Anumana (inference).
• Madhyastha: Neutral judges evaluate the debate and declare the verdict.
• Traditionally conducted in Sanskrit, requiring precision, clarity, and strong oratory skills.