Jnanodaya Salesian Institute of Philosophy is a premier house of immediate post-novitiate formation for the Salesian Provinces of India, standing as a beacon of intellectual rigor, spiritual depth, and pastoral zeal in the serene heights of Yercaud.
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The Retreat – Don Bosco, Yercaud · Established in 1950 amidst the serene Shevaroy Hills of Tamil Nadu.
Founding & The Retreat (1950)
Dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, The Retreat – Don Bosco was founded in 1950 amidst the lush green Shevaroy Hills of Yercaud, Salem District, Tamil Nadu. The institution began its sacred journey as a Studentate of Theology from 1950 to 1952, preparing zealous missionaries for the Salesian apostolate across India.
Milestones in Formative Journey
- 1950 – 1952: Studentate of Theology for Salesian confreres.
- 1953: Functioned as the Novitiate of the Salesian Province.
- 1958: Inauguration of the Studentate of Philosophy alongside the Novitiate.
- June 1978: The Novitiate was relocated to Kotagiri and subsequently to Vellakinar, Coimbatore. Since then, the Retreat has been dedicated exclusively as a Studentate of Philosophy.
- Bachelor of Philosophy Era: For several decades, the institute offered a rigorous two-year Bachelor’s Degree in Philosophy.
- June 2013 – Present: In alignment with directives from the Università Pontificia Salesiana (UPS), Rome, the institute restructured its curriculum to offer a specialized two-year Diploma Course in Philosophy.
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Panoramic view of The Retreat – Don Bosco, Yercaud
Global Affiliation with UPS Rome
The academic program is closely harmonized with the Faculty of Philosophy of the Salesian Pontifical University (Rome). It provides students with a worldwide perspective, integrating Christian faith, Western metaphysics, classical Indian philosophy, and contemporary educational sciences.
Panoramic hillside terraces and academic buildings conducive to philosophical contemplation.