Write a short note on the gurukul system of education.
During the Later Vedic period, when a boy attained 7 years of age, he was sent to the house of the guru, i.e. the gurukul. He resided there till he attained the age of 25 years. Gurukuls were generally situated in the deep part of forests. The guru treated students like his own children, and the students were to treat the guru like their spiritual father.
They were expected to lead a simple and disciplined life and helped the guru in household chores such as cleaning, drawing water from the well, gathering wood and working in the fields. In studies, they memorised lessons which were imparted to them orally. After the completion of their education, the students paid the guru dakshina or fees according to their capability.