🔝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