🔝 1. Kulapati (कुलपति) — Head of the Gurukul/Chancellor or Dean
• Supreme authority in the Gurukul.
• Oversaw the functioning, discipline, curriculum, admission, and welfare of students and staff.
• Often a highly revered sage or scholar.
• Could be the founder of the Gurukul or its spiritual head.
Equivalent to: Dean / Chancellor / Principal
🧙♂️ 2. Mahacharya (महाचार्य) — Senior or Great Teacher
• A very learned and senior Acharya.
• Sometimes taught advanced subjects like Vedanta, philosophy, or metaphysics.
• May supervise multiple Acharyas or be consulted for special teachings and scholarly debates.
Equivalent to: Senior Professor / Visiting Scholar / Academic Advisor
👨🏫 3. Acharya (आचार्य) — Primary Teacher / Mentor
• Main teacher responsible for educating a group of students (shishyas).
• Taught subjects like Vedas, grammar, astrology, medicine, and warfare.
• Emphasized both knowledge (gyan) and conduct (acharan).
• Students lived with and served the Acharya.
Equivalent to: Professor / Mentor / Spiritual Guide
📘 4. Upadhyaya (उपाध्याय) — Assistant or Junior Teacher
• Assisted the Acharya in teaching specific subjects or practical tasks.
• Often a younger scholar gaining experience in pedagogy.
• Helped in maintaining student discipline and answering queries.
Equivalent to: Assistant Professor / Lecturer / Tutor
🧑🎓 5. Shishya (शिष्य) — Student / Disciple
• Lived in the Gurukul under the Guru's care.
• Learned through oral transmission, memorization, service, and practice.
• Followed strict discipline and served the teacher as part of their learning.
• Could range from beginner to advanced learners.
Equivalent to: Student / Learner