IKS - CLASS ACTIVITY FOR BAMMC STUDENTS

INDIA'S KNOWLEDGE QUEST – ANCIENT WISDOM FOR A MODERN WORLD

Student Instruction Sheet

 

Course: Indian Knowledge System (in Media & Communication)

Group Presentation & Creative Challenge

Group Size: 6–8 students per group

Duration

·       Preparation: 45–60 minutes (or as assigned by the faculty)

·       Presentation: 10–12 minutes per group

 

Activity Overview

India possesses one of the world's oldest and richest knowledge traditions. From medicine and mathematics to governance, architecture, performing arts, education, communication, and environmental practices, the Indian Knowledge System (IKS) continues to influence the modern world.

Your group has been selected as a Knowledge Council whose mission is to convince the audience that your assigned topic remains relevant in the 21st century.

Your presentation should not be a traditional classroom presentation. Instead, use your creativity to educate, entertain, and engage your audience.

Objectives - By completing this activity, students will:

Ø  Understand the assigned IKS topic.

Ø  Explore its historical significance.

Ø  Connect ancient knowledge with present-day applications.

Ø  Work collaboratively in teams.

Ø  Develop research, presentation, communication, and creative thinking skills.

Ø  Use media and storytelling techniques to explain concepts effectively.

 

Group Roles: Every member must actively participate.

 

Assigned Topics: Each group will be allotted one topic.

Topics include:

1.    Ayurveda

2.    Yoga & Wellness

3.    Arthashastra

4.    Natyashastra

5.    Ancient Indian Education (Gurukul)

6.    Takshashila & Nalanda Universities

7.    Ancient Astronomy

8.    Indian Mathematics

9.    Ancient Banking System

10. Ancient Trade & Commerce

11. Vastu Shastra

12. Water Conservation in Ancient India

13. Folk Theatre

14. Indian Classical Dance

15. Ancient Communication Systems

16. Temple Architecture

17. Environmental Wisdom

18. Metallurgy in Ancient India

19. Ancient Sports

20. Traditional Knowledge Systems

 

Presentation Structure: Your presentation must include all of the following sections.

 Part 1 – Know Your Topic (2 Minutes)

Introduce your assigned topic by covering:

ü  Origin

ü  Historical background

ü  Important personalities or scholars

ü  Key concepts

ü  Interesting facts

ü  Importance during ancient India

 

Part 2 – Creative Presentation (4–5 Minutes)

Present your topic using ONE creative format.

Choose any one:

Option 1: News Bulletin

Example: "Breaking News! Aryabhata discovers the concept of zero!"

 

Option 2: Podcast - Interview an ancient scholar.

Examples:

·       Chanakya

·       Sushruta

·       Aryabhata

·       Bharata Muni

·       Charaka

Option 3: Talk Show - Host invites famous personalities from ancient India.

 

Option 4: Courtroom Drama

Debate: "Is Ancient Knowledge Still Relevant?"

 

Option 5: Shark Tank India - Pitch an ancient invention.

Examples:

·       Ayurveda

·       Yoga

·       Ancient Banking

·       Water Harvesting

 

Option 6: Social Media Influencer - Imagine your topic has:

·       Instagram

·       YouTube

·       Podcast

·       Twitter (X)

Promote your topic creatively.

 

Option 7: Role Play - Create a short dramatic scene.

Option 8: TED Talk: Deliver an inspiring talk explaining why your knowledge system matters today.

 

Part 3 – Ancient Meets Modern (2 Minutes)

Choose one modern issue.

Examples:

·       Climate Change

·       Mental Health

·       Digital Addiction

·       Fake News

·       Leadership Crisis

·       Financial Literacy

·       Environmental Pollution

·       Stress among Students

·       Water Scarcity

·       Consumerism

Explain: How can your assigned IKS topic help solve this issue?

Support your answer with practical examples.

 

Part 4 – Media Creation Challenge (1–2 Minutes)

Create ONE media product related to your topic.

Options include:

·       Advertisement

·       Instagram Reel

·       Magazine Cover

·       Newspaper Front Page

·       Comic Strip

·       Meme

·       Radio Jingle

·       Public Service Announcement

·       Campaign Poster

·       Digital Infographic

·       YouTube Thumbnail

·       Short Promotional Video

·       Social Media Campaign

Display or perform it during your presentation.

 

Research Guidelines

Students are expected to use reliable sources.

 

Creativity Guidelines: You are encouraged to use:

·       Costumes

·       Placards

·       Props

·       Charts

·       Posters

·       Models

·       Handmade material

·       Audio

·       Music

·       Videos (if permitted)

·       QR Codes

·       Canva Presentations

·       Interactive Games

 

Time Limit

Activity	Time
Introduction	2 min
Creative Presentation	5 min
Modern Application	2 min
Media Product	2 min
Audience Activity: QnA / Feedback	1 min

Maximum Time: 12 Minutes

Evaluation Criteria

·       Content Accuracy & Research
·       Understanding of IKS Topic
·       Creativity & Originality
·       Relevance to Modern Society
·       Effective Use of Media & Communication
·       Teamwork & Equal Participation
·       Audience Engagement & Delivery

 

Submission Requirements / Presentation Rules

·       Every group member must speak or actively participate.

·       Stay within the allotted time.

·       Use respectful and inclusive language.

·       Ensure facts are historically accurate.

·       Avoid reading directly from notes or phone.  

·       Focus on explaining concepts through creativity rather than lengthy lectures.

 

Bonus Challenge (+ Marks)

Conclude your presentation with a 30-second "Future Pitch" beginning with the sentence:

"If the world adopted one principle from our Indian Knowledge System today, it would be __________ because __________."

Support your answer with a practical example that demonstrates its relevance in today's world.

 

Final Thought

This activity is designed to help you discover that the Indian Knowledge System is not just a part of history—it is a living source of ideas that continue to inspire solutions in health, governance, communication, education, science, the arts, and sustainable living. Approach the task with curiosity, creativity, and teamwork, and show how ancient wisdom can address modern challenges.

CANONS OF JOURNALISM

Canons of Journalism were ethical rules adopted by the American Society of Newspaper Editors on April 28, 1923, and since endorsed by many state associations and other groups of journalists. These canons have been taken up in other countries too and explain the basis rules for good behaviour for journalists, reminding them not only about their role as well as responsibilities. A journalist is made to understand that he is accountable only to the reader and he has to write or broadcast information keeping in mind welfare and interests of his readers. Though in today’s world when newspaper is more of a business than a mission as it used to be a few decades back, journalists have to follow not only the diktats of the editor and owner of the newspaper but also the marketing manager and brand director, we need to remember that our primary objective is to inform the reader and thus take care of his interests. We need to follow these principles of journalism as much as possible.

This is the resolution adopted by the American Society of Newspaper Editors:

The primary function of newspapers is to communicate to the human race what its members do, feel and think. Journalism, therefore, demands of its practitioners the widest range of intelligence of knowledge and of experience, as well as natural and trained powers of observation and reasoning. To its opportunities as a chronicle are indissoluble linked its obligations as teacher and interpreter.

 To the end of finding some means of codifying sound practice and just aspirations of American journalism, these canons are set forth:

(1) Responsibility— The right of a newspaper to attract and hold readers is restricted by nothing but considerations of public welfare. The use of newspaper makes of the share of public attention it gains serves to determine its sense of responsibility, which it shares with every member of its staff. A journalist who uses his power for any selfish or otherwise unworthy purpose is faithless to a high trust.

(2) Freedom of the Press— Freedom of the press is to be guarded as a vital right of mankind. It is the unquestionable right by law, including the wisdom of any restrictive statute. To its privileges under the freedom of American institutions are inseparably joined its responsibilities for an intelligent fidelity to the Constitution of the United States.

(3) Independence— Freedom from all obligations except that of fidelity to the public interest is vital.

A. Promotion of any private interest contrary to the general welfare, for what ever reason, is not compatible with honest journalism. So-called news communications from private sources should not be published without public notice of their source or else substantiation of the claims to value as news, both in form and substance.

B. Partisanship in editorial comment which knowingly departs from the truth does violence to the best spirit of American journalism; in the news columns it is subversive of a fundamental principle of the profession.

(4) Sincerity, Truthfulness, Accuracy— Good faith with the reader is the foundation of all journalism worthy of the name.

A. By every consideration of good faith, a newspaper is constrained to be truthful. It is not to be excused for lack of thoroughness, or accuracy within its control, or failure to obtain command of these essential qualities.

B. Headlines should be fully warranted by the contents of the articles which they surmount.

(5) Impartiality— Sound practice makes clear distinction between news reports and expressions of opinion. News reports should be free from opinion or bias of any kind. This rule does not apply to so-called special articles unmistakably devoted to advocacy or characterized by a signature authorizing the writer’s own conclusions and interpretations.

(6) Fair Play— A newspaper should not publish unofficial charges affecting reputation or moral character, without opportunity given to the accused to be heard; right practice demands the giving of such opportunity in all cases of serious accusation outside judicial proceedings.

A. A newspaper should no invade rights of private feelings without sure warren of public right as distinguished from public curiosity.

B. It is the privilege, as it is the duty, of a newspaper to make prompt and complete correction of its own serious mistakes of fact or opinion, whatever their origin.

(7) Decency— A newspaper cannot escape conviction of insincerity if, while professing high moral purpose, it supplies incentives to base conduct, such as are to be found in details of crime and vice, publication of which is not demonstrably for the general good. Lacking authority to enforce its canons, the journalism here represented can but express the hope that deliberate pandering to vicious instincts will encounter effective public disapproval or yield to the influence of a preponderant professional condemnation.

TRANSLATION NOTES | NEP | FYBAMMC

I BASICS OF TRANSLATION

 A. What is Translation? How is it done in different modes and disciplines and application in media.

B. Myths about Translation. Meaning of Faithful Translation (The Task of the Translator, Walter Benjamin's essay).

C. Learning how to translate: Communicative translation. Transliteration as the failure of translation 

II TYPES OF TRANSLATION

A. Formal translation and Word to Word translation: Verbal, literal and lexical level

B. Semantic Translation

C. Grammatical level, including symbols, images, literary devices and style in translation.

D. Adaptation and Transfer of form or Inter-Media Translation:

E. Media Transfer in fiction to film or drama to film and so on. 

     Elements of Style. (practical and INTERNAL marks)

F. Use of imagery, non-verbal communication and intonation in translation.

G. Free Translation: The Translator's license and question of zero translatability

III TRANSLATION AND ADAPTATION

A. Translating biographies of important personalities in cinematic or dramatic style.

B. Film Adaptations: making films out of literary stories, fiction or plays

IV CULTURAL KNOWLEDGE AND COMPUTER ASSISTED TRANSLATION (CAT)

A Translation as Transference of Meaning, as Interpretation and as a Political, Social Protest in the different streams of writing (the Feminist, Post-Colonial and Postmodern literature

B. Understanding differences between people with different backgrounds. Moral, spiritual values, customs and traditions Idioms and phrases, references and slang, etc

C. Translation in Social Media and Literature: A Comparative glance 

D. Understanding Computer Assisted Computer software

V JOBS AS TRANSLATORS

A. Roles and responsibilities. New possibilities in Literature, National and International education, International Affairs, law, business, finance, science, technology and medicine (done in class as internal project)

SEMANTIC TRANSLATION

Semantic translation is a method of translation that focuses on conveying the exact meaning of the original text as closely as possible. The main aim is to preserve the original sense, tone, style, and cultural context of the source language.

The term semantic translation was introduced by Peter Newmark, who explained different approaches to translation. According to him, semantic translation tries to remain faithful to the author’s intention and the original text.

Key Features of Semantic Translation

- Focuses on the exact meaning of words and sentences

- Preserves the original tone and style

- Gives importance to the author’s intention

- Tries to maintain cultural and emotional elements

- May sound slightly formal or less natural in the target language

Example: If a sentence in Hindi says, “वह दिल का बहुत अच्छा है”, a semantic translation would be: “He is very good at heart.” The translator keeps the original meaning and expression rather than changing it to something like “He is a kind person,” which would be more communicative.

Difference from Communicative Translation

While semantic translation focuses on the original text and author, communicative translation focuses more on the reader and making the text easily understandable. Semantic translation is more faithful to the source text.

Semantic translation is a careful and detailed method of translation that aims to transfer the exact meaning of the original text. It respects the author’s style and cultural context and is commonly used in literary, academic, and serious texts where accuracy is important.

TRANSLATION AS TRANSFERENCE OF MEANING, INTERPRETATION & POLITICAL / SOCIAL PROTEST

Translation is not just the act of changing words from one language to another. It is a complex process that involves transferring meaning, interpreting ideas, and sometimes expressing political or social resistance. In different streams of writing such as Feminist, Post-Colonial, and Postmodern literature, translation plays a powerful and transformative role.

1. Translation as Transference of Meaning - At the basic level, translation is the transfer of meaning from a source language to a target language. The translator tries to keep the original message, tone, emotion, and cultural context intact. However, languages are deeply connected to culture, so exact word-to-word translation is often not possible.

For example, when translating regional Indian literature into English, the translator must carefully convey cultural expressions, idioms, and social realities so that the meaning is not lost. Translation therefore becomes a bridge between cultures.

2. Translation as Interpretation - Translation is also an act of interpretation. The translator makes choices about words, tone, and style. These choices are influenced by the translator’s understanding, background, and ideology.

For instance, translating a novel like Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe involves interpreting Igbo culture, proverbs, and colonial experiences for a global audience. The translator does not simply convert words but interprets cultural meanings and emotions.

Thus, translation is not neutral; it reflects the translator’s perspective.

3. Translation as Political and Social Protest - In many literary movements, translation becomes a tool of resistance and protest.

(a) Feminist Literature - In Feminist writing, translation can challenge patriarchal language and male-dominated narratives. Feminist translators often highlight women’s voices that were ignored or suppressed. They may consciously choose words that empower female characters and question gender bias in language.

For example, works by writers like Simone de Beauvoir have been translated in ways that emphasize women’s identity and freedom. Translation here becomes a means of spreading feminist ideas across cultures.

(b) Post-Colonial Literature - In Post-Colonial literature, translation plays a major role in resisting colonial domination. Colonized nations often had their languages suppressed by colonial powers. Translating native texts into global languages like English allows marginalized voices to be heard internationally.

For example, writers such as Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o emphasize writing in native languages and then translating them to challenge colonial influence. Translation becomes an act of reclaiming identity and cultural pride.

(c) Postmodern Literature - Postmodern literature questions fixe meanings and absolute truths. In this stream, translation highlights the idea that meaning is unstable and open to multiple interpretations. Translators may experiment with structure, style, and language to reflect fragmented narratives.

Writers like Salman Rushdie mix languages, cultures, and histories in their works, making translation a creative and complex process. Here, translation shows that meaning is not fixed but constantly shifting.

Translation is more than linguistic conversion. It is a transfer of meaning, an act of interpretation, and sometimes a form of political and social protest. In Feminist, Post-Colonial, and Postmodern literature, translation helps challenge power structures, give voice to the marginalized, and question dominant ideologies. It connects cultures while also reshaping meaning in powerful and meaningful ways.

UNDERSTANDING DIFFERENCE BETWEEN PEOPLE WITH DIFFERENT BACKGROUNDS

People come from different backgrounds, cultures, religions, and social environments. These differences shape their thinking, behaviour, communication style, and way of life. Understanding these differences helps us build respect, tolerance, and harmony in society.

1. Moral and Spiritual Values

Moral values are ideas about what is right and wrong. Spiritual values relate to faith, beliefs, and inner peace. Different communities may follow different religions or belief systems, and these influence their daily practices, festivals, food habits, and lifestyle. For example, people in India follow various religions and celebrate different festivals, showing how spiritual beliefs shape traditions. Respecting these values helps in maintaining unity and understanding.

2. Customs and Traditions

Customs and traditions are practices passed down from one generation to another. They include ways of greeting, dressing, celebrating festivals, marriage ceremonies, and food habits. What may be normal in one culture might be unusual in another. Understanding these differences prevents misunderstandings and promotes acceptance.

3. Language Differences: Idioms, Phrases, References, and Slang

Language also reflects cultural background.

• Idioms and phrases are expressions whose meanings are different from the literal words. For example, “break the ice” means to start a conversation.

• Cultural references may relate to local history, movies, or famous personalities that others may not immediately understand.

• Slang includes informal words used mostly by younger generations or specific groups. Slang can change quickly and may not be understood by everyone.

When people from different backgrounds communicate, these language differences can sometimes cause confusion. Being patient and open-minded helps improve communication.

Understanding differences in moral values, spiritual beliefs, customs, traditions, and language helps us become more respectful and culturally sensitive. In today’s global world, learning to appreciate diversity is important for peaceful coexistence and effective communication.