IIT Mandi Orders Probe Into Controversial Gita-Themed Caste Poster

IIT Mandi has ordered an inquiry into a controversial Bhagavad Gita-themed poster displayed on its campus that described Shudras as being required to “serve higher classes”, triggering concerns over caste discrimination.

The poster was displayed outside the institute’s auditorium during Janmashtami celebrations on September 4. Titled “Bhagavad Gita – The Timeless Wisdom”, it divided society into Brahmanas, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas and Shudras and outlined different roles for each group.

While Brahmanas were described as responsible for spreading God’s message and Kshatriyas for protecting society and spirituality, Vaishyas were assigned economic responsibilities. Shudras were described as having the role to “serve higher classes”. The poster also cited a Bhagavad Gita verse referring to four divisions of human society based on the “three modes of material nature” and associated work.

IIT Mandi Director Laxmidhar Behera said the poster was part of a student-led event and had not been endorsed by the institute. He said an inquiry committee comprising faculty members and representatives from different social categories, including Scheduled Castes and Other Backward Classes, had been constituted.

In an email to the IIT Mandi community, Behera said he was “shocked” by the display and expressed empathy with those hurt by it. He reiterated that the institute strongly condemns caste-based discrimination and is committed to equality, social justice and scientific temper in accordance with constitutional values.

Behera, who teaches a three-credit Bhagavad Gita course at IIT Mandi, said he had been away from campus when the poster was displayed and learned about the controversy after returning.

He also defended the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), with which he has a longstanding association, saying the organisation opposes caste discrimination and promotes equality.

Behera has previously attracted controversy over remarks on meat consumption and natural disasters in Himachal Pradesh, as well as claims involving spiritual practices. The latest incident has prompted renewed scrutiny of the role of religious teachings and caste-related interpretations on educational campuses.