The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi has ordered an investigation after a poster displayed on its campus during Janmashtami celebrations sparked criticism over its depiction of the caste system. The poster, titled “Bhagavad Gita – The Timeless Wisdom,” presented descriptions of the traditional four varnas. While it described Brahmanas, Kshatriyas and Vaishyas in terms of their respective social roles, its description of Shudras as those who “serve higher classes” drew strong objections. Images of the poster circulated online, leading students and others to question whether such material was appropriate for display at an educational institution.

The controversy quickly shifted the focus towards caste equality and social harmony on campus. IIT Mandi Director Laxmidhar Behera said he was shocked after learning about the poster and made it clear that the institute had neither approved nor endorsed its contents. According to the director, the poster was part of a student led event and reflected the students' interpretation of the Bhagavad Gita. He said an inquiry committee had been constituted to examine the circumstances surrounding its creation and display.

The director also strongly condemned caste based discrimination, stressing that the institute stands for equality, social justice and constitutional values. The probe is expected to look into who prepared the poster, how it reached the campus event and whether any formal approval process was followed before it was displayed. The incident has also brought renewed attention to how religious and philosophical material is presented within educational institutions, particularly when its interpretation touches on sensitive issues such as caste and social hierarchy. For IIT Mandi, the immediate focus is now on establishing the circumstances behind the poster and ensuring that future campus activities do not promote discrimination or undermine social harmony.