Here is a detailed explanation in English of the six classical systems of Hindu philosophy, known as the Ṣaḍdarśana (षड्दर्शन) or Six Darshanas:

The Six Systems of Hindu Philosophy (Ṣaḍdarśana)

These six schools aim to guide individuals toward Moksha (liberation) through understanding reality, self, and the divine. Though diverse in their approaches, they are all rooted in the Vedas.

1. Nyaya (Logic and Epistemology)

• Founder: Sage Gautama

• Focus: Logic, reasoning, and valid knowledge (Pramana)

• Description:
  Nyaya provides tools for logical thinking and correct reasoning. It defines four valid sources of knowledge (perception, inference, comparison, and testimony). It plays a key role in developing critical thinking and refuting fallacies.

2. Vaisheshika (Atomism and Metaphysics)

• Founder: Sage Kanada

• Focus: Classification of reality, metaphysics, and atomism

• Description:
  Vaisheshika proposes that all physical objects are made of atoms and classifies all entities into categories like substance, quality, action, generality, particularity, and inherence. It complements Nyaya in understanding the physical world.

3. Samkhya (Enumeration and Dualism)

• Founder: Sage Kapila

• Focus: Dualism between Purusha (soul) and Prakriti (nature)

• Description:
  One of the oldest philosophical systems, Samkhya is atheistic and explains creation through the interaction of consciousness (Purusha) and matter (Prakriti). It outlines 25 principles (Tattvas) of reality and believes that liberation comes through discriminative knowledge.

4. Yoga  

• Founder: Sage Patanjali

• Focus: Spiritual practice and self-realization

• Description:
  Based on Samkhya, but theistic (accepts God), Yoga emphasizes practical methods for liberation, especially through the Eight Limbs (Ashtanga Yoga): Yama, Niyama, Asana, Pranayama, Pratyahara, Dharana, Dhyana, and Samadhi. It aims at controlling the mind and senses to realize the Self.

5. Purva Mimamsa (Ritual and Dharma)

• Founder: Sage Jaimini

• Focus: Vedic rituals and Dharma

• Description:
  Mimamsa focuses on the earlier (Purva) part of the Vedas, especially the Karma Kanda (ritual portion). It emphasizes ritual actions and duty (Dharma) as a means to attain worldly and spiritual goals. It does not focus on God or liberation as much as proper action.

6. Vedanta (Metaphysics and Ultimate Reality)

• Founder: Sage Badarayana (Vyasa)

• Focus: Self, Brahman, and liberation

• Description:
  Also called Uttara Mimamsa, Vedanta is based on the Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, and Brahma Sutras. It discusses the nature of Brahman (ultimate reality), Atman (soul), and their unity or difference. Major schools within Vedanta include:

  • Advaita (Non-dualism) – Adi Shankaracharya

  • Vishishtadvaita (Qualified non-dualism) – Ramanujacharya

  • Dvaita (Dualism) – Madhvacharya