Arivu (Gnosis) and Open Knowledge: A Spiritual Epistemology Based on Sree Narayana Guru

Authors

  • Santhosh C R Department of Sanskrit Sree Narayana College under University of Calicut, Thrissur, India
  • Sathikumar C S Former Head, Lib and Information Services Dn, LID, Kerala Legislature Secretariat

Keywords:

Sree Narayana Guru, Arivu, Gnosis, Open Knowledge, Advaita, Spiritual Epistemology, Knowledge Commons

Abstract

Explores the concept of open knowledge through the epistemological and spiritual framework articulated in Arivu (Gnosis) by Sree Narayana Guru . While contemporary discourses on open knowledge emphasize unrestricted access, sharing, and collaborative production of information. Arivu offers a deeper ontological and spiritual grounding for openness rooted in self-knowledge , non-duality (advaita), and universal accessibility. By undertaking a close reading of Arivu, this study argues that Narayana Guru anticipates a radically inclusive knowledge commons in which spiritual insight, ethical living, and intellectual inquiry are inseparable. The paper situates Arivu within broader debates on epistemology, spirituality, and open knowledge, demonstrating its relevance for contemporary discussions on democratization of knowledge, decolonization of epistemic hierarchies, and the integration of lived wisdom with scholarly discourse.

Author Biographies

  • Santhosh C R, Department of Sanskrit Sree Narayana College under University of Calicut, Thrissur, India
    Santhosh C R has been working as Assistant Professor of Sree Narayana Guru College (under  University of Calicut), Chelannur, Kozhikode, India since 2005. Has Published 3 books; Bbharatamuniyude Natyasastram,  Natyasastrattile Rasabhavangal, Daivadasakam: Guruvinte Mahayanam. He has numerous research papers and conference presentations to his credit. Was hounoured with  Abhayadev Award, Gurudarshan Award, and Kerala Kalamandalam Award.He was awarde PhD from Kerala University for his stuy on ‘Tatvapradeepika’  of Chithsukacharya  an Advaitha Vedanta Classic.
  • Sathikumar C S, Former Head, Lib and Information Services Dn, LID, Kerala Legislature Secretariat
    Sathikumar C S did his Post graduation in Economics from Kerala University. Was the Chief Librarian of Kerala Legislature and was the first in India to envision the project for Open Access to Legislative proceedings. The archive launched under his initiative consisting of Legislative  Assembly records - proceedings, reports and other documents  including hand written proceedings of earlier years related to the Travancore, Cochin, Travancore - Cochin and Kerala Legislative Councils and Assemblies from the year 1888 to the present Kerala Legislative Assembly running to lakhs of pages. It became a model for other states and Parliament. He has authored popular articles, papers and monographs related to management of legislative information and has edited the journal 'Legal and Constitutional Digest' published by Government

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Image of Chattampi Swamikal (as in 1924)

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Published

2025-12-01

Issue

Vol. 12 No. 4 (2025): Chattampi Swamikal and Open Knowledge

Section

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