Sixty-Four Kalas of the Bhagavata Puraṇa

A Study for an Indic Perspective

Abstract

India’s civilizational ethos is deeply rooted in its rich heritage of knowledge systems, arts, and spirituality. Among its most compelling intellectual and artistic traditions is the concept of the Sixty-Four Kalās—a comprehensive enumeration of arts, talents, and skills encompassing diverse domains such as aesthetics, intellect, craftsmanship, governance, and warfare. Though these Kalās occupy a foundational place in classical Indian literature, particularly in texts like the Bhāgavata Purāṇa, their relevance has diminished due to colonial disruptions, modern educational paradigms, and global cultural homogenization. This study, titled “Sixty-Four Kalās of the Bhāgavata Purāṇa: A Study for an Indic Perspective”, seeks to revive, reinterpret, and recontextualize these Kalās within contemporary scholarly discourse and cultural frameworks. The research begins with a textual analysis of the character of Lord Krishna in the Bhāgavata Purāṇa, identifying and categorizing each of these Kalās according to their aesthetic, intellectual, and spiritual dimensions. Through an Indic lens,
the study further investigates traditional modes of oral transmission—especially the guru-shishya parampara and the gurukul system—emphasizing the pedagogical processes that historically sustained these arts. Anchored in the Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) framework, this study emphasizes the importance of revitalizing traditional arts to enhance cultural pride, strengthen national identity, and promote global awareness. It argues that the Sixty-Four Kalās represent a holistic model of human development—integrating material, intellectual, and spiritual dimensions in the pursuit of harmony and fulfilment. Ultimately, this research aims to function not only as an academic contribution but also as a cultural revitalization initiative.