Abstract This paper explores the pivotal role of undergraduate (U.G.) college sports teachers in fostering personality development among students, integrating perspectives from the Indian Knowledge System (IKS). Drawing from ancient texts like the Bhagavad Gita, Yoga Sutras, and Upanishads, it posits sports as a modern extension of IKS principles such as yama-niyama (ethical restraints and observances), karma yoga (selfless action), and atman (self-realization). Through a mixed-methods approach—surveying 200 students and 50 sports teachers from Maharashtra colleges—key findings reveal that sports teachers enhance traits like discipline (85% agreement), resilience (78%), and leadership (72%) via holistic training. Challenges include resource constraints and Westernized curricula. Recommendations advocate IKS-infused pedagogies for comprehensive personality growth, aligning with India's National Education Policy 2020. This study bridges tradition and modernity, offering actionable insights for educators.
Ashtankar et al. (Sat,) studied this question.