Scholarships & Financial Aid Options at Gurukul: The Guru-Shishya Parampara* has always had the highest place in Indian culture. It is not only a process of imparting education, but has also been a medium to teach the art of living. Gurukul Scholarship Scheme started in the year 1986 by SPIC MACAY (Society for the Promotion of Indian Classical Music And Culture Amongst Youth) is an effort to bring this sacred tradition closer to today’s young generation. The aim of this scheme is to give students a glimpse of that lifestyle, where knowledge is acquired with true dedication, discipline and devotion.
Experience that changes life
This scheme of SPIC MACAY gives students an opportunity to stay with a renowned Guru for a month during the summer holidays (May-July). It is not just a platform to learn any art or knowledge, but an experience of a complete life philosophy. Here students not only see the sadhana of the Guru, but also understand that success is achieved not only by talent, but also by hard work, self-discipline and spiritual strength.
This one month spent with the Guru is not like a textbook, but it is a living school. Students see how even a simple lifestyle can have depth, inspiration and beauty. This time helps them to look within, identify their dreams and understand the means to realize them.
Objective and Rules of Scholarship
The main idea behind this scheme is that students come out of their familiar environment and learn in a completely different and disciplined environment. Through this experience they not only acquire art or knowledge, but also imbibe life values like self-reliance, tolerance and concentration.
Essential Eligibility:
- The age of the applicant should be between 13 to 26 years as on 31 December 2020.
- Age group of 5 to 12 years is also allowed on special occasions of lockdown.
- Student is required to stay with Guru for one full month (30 days), which is scheduled between May to July.
Application Process and Travel Allowance
Students are required to apply in the prescribed format. Incomplete or wrongly submitted entries are not accepted. Selected candidates are called for interview through email or phone, but travel expenses for interview are to be borne by the students themselves.
Travel expenses in AC 3 tier train to Guru’s residence is borne by SPIC MACAY, provided the student submits the original ticket (or print copy of e-ticket) along with the report. Student is required to send a refundable amount of ₹5000 in the form of cheque to SPIC MACAY, which is returned after submitting the report.
Test of discipline and responsibility
This experience is not just an opportunity to learn, but also a test of discipline and responsibility. If a student:
- does not spend the entire month,
- is complained of indiscipline by the Guru,
- or does not submit the report on time,
then his security deposit (₹5000) is confiscated. This rule shows the seriousness of this scheme and makes the students responsible.
Learning is not just an art, it is a philosophy of life
In this scheme the students will learn conventional art such as dance, music, painting yoga, drama and superior auspiciousness of life. Living in Gurukul, they also get to understand that only through sacrifice, restraint and continuous practice we can excel.
While there is a race to move ahead fast in the modern education system, this scheme connects the students to the process of learning in a slow, steady and deep form. This experience also strengthens their confidence and helps them to see their life goals clearly.
Conclusion: A Priceless Opportunity
Gurukul Scholarship of SPIC MACAY is a scholarship, and more so a life-altering experience. It makes students feel the spirit of Indian cultural heritage and encourages the pursuance of the path that will result not only in prosperity, but also in harmony and happiness.
To be the part of this experience is desirable by you or any student you know, then, this scheme, certainly, is a golden opportunity, which can be enjoyed not only after a month, but throughout a lifetime.
This can be the first step towards connecting with the cultural depths of India and self-development.
