In the divine creation, man is superior to all other creatures. He is with a superb brain and free-will that can create miracles. His quest for knowledge is inborn and is manifested in all-round scientific, materialistic, psychological development in every sphere of life. Though man willingly or unwillingly puts himself into different kinds of roles, trying to get different types of material things to prove his potential in the modern society, but ultimately knowingly or unknowingly is searching for happiness and peace of mind. To make him happy, man is after intellectual pursuit and material achievements, which he supposes will ultimately bring peace and happiness in his life. But unfortunately, when he realizes that he is still unhappy with all the materials and intellectual comforts, his life seems miserable. Then the quest for something different and more meaningful begins. In this process some very conscientious and lucky persons turn towards spirituality or self-knowledge.
In the ancient period, in India, children were sent to Gurukulam, where they learned both Para-Apara vidya simultaneously. So, people knew not only how to make a living, but also how to live. So, when they grew up, they were not aimless wonderers, but they knew their ultimate aim. So, their lives become more practical and peaceful. With the subsequent development of the material world with time, the material development becomes so prominent that it subdues the effect of spiritual knowledge.