When tradition meets technology, stories like that of Govind Krishnan M emerge, where deep-rooted cultural learning complements cutting-edge science. A native of Kannur, Kerala, Govind is set to join the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), the premier arm of ISRO based in Thiruvananthapuram. Unlike his peers from the Vedic path who chose priesthood, Govind took a different route—one that merges ancient knowledge with modern space science.
“There’s a common belief that Vedic education restricts career growth or doesn’t align with science,” Govind reflects. “But my journey shows that both can coexist. With discipline and balance, it’s possible to embrace both spirituality and science.”
Govind’s educational path defies convention. After completing Grade 4 at Kendriya Vidyalaya, Payyannur, in 2011, he left mainstream schooling to join a gurukula at Bhramaswam Madham, Thrissur. Over four intensive years completing a five-year course in less time he immersed himself in Vedic study.
The decision to pursue Vedic education was influenced by his father, Hareesh Kumar, a former Indian Navy officer who retired voluntarily in 2009. After years of relocating across naval bases in cities like Kochi, Mumbai, and Lonavala, the family returned to their hometown Kaithapram in Kannur. Govind’s sacred thread ceremony (upanayanam) took place while he was still in school, marking the beginning of his spiritual training.
“The initial phase was challenging—I was away from home for the first time,” Govind recalls. “There were five of us in my batch, and we studied the Yajurveda. There were no textbooks or visuals—everything was passed down orally from the guru. It was a life of discipline.”
He attended a nearby government school only for exams, focusing primarily on Vedic learning. His day began at 5 a.m., packed with chanting, rituals, and a tightly scheduled routine. It wasn’t until the fifth year that he resumed regular schooling, enrolling in Vivekodayam Boys Higher Secondary School, Nadakkavu, for Grades 8 to 10—all while continuing his gurukula life.
His daily schedule remained intense: Vedic classes until early morning and late evening, followed by academic studies until nearly midnight. Despite this demanding routine, Govind scored top grades in his 10th board exams. He then left the gurukula and joined Alva’s College in Moodbidri, Mangaluru, for his higher secondary education, simultaneously preparing for competitive entrance exams.
Govind succeeded in clearing both JEE Main and Advanced, securing admission to the Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST) in Valiamala, Thiruvananthapuram. He enrolled in the BTech Electronics and Communication program in 2021.
Even after leaving the gurukula, Govind continued his spiritual routines. “I maintain at least an hour a day for what I’ve learned,” he says. “Just like people go to the gym for physical fitness, I train my mind—for focus, clarity, and memory.”
While his batchmates pursued priesthood due to family traditions, Govind charted a new course. Though he knows basic rituals like Ganapathihomam and Thevaram, he clarifies that temple priesthood requires specific training beyond Vedic study.
Now, selected through ISRO’s Centralised Recruitment Board (ICRB), which includes rigorous testing and interviews, Govind is preparing to start his new role in July. He hopes to continue his spiritual practices even as he steps into his scientific career.
“In the future, I’d love to teach young minds what I’ve learned,” he says. “The Vedas have given me more than knowledge—they’ve given me strength and direction.”
Govind’s family remains rooted in humble aspirations. His father now works at a private bank in Kannur, his mother Suja is pursuing a BA in Music, and his twin sister, Gayathri, is employed as a physiotherapist in Mumbai.
Govind’s story stands as a powerful testament to how ancient Indian wisdom and modern science can not only coexist but thrive together.
(With Inputs From onmanorama)
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