Sanskrit continues to hold timeless relevance in modern education, blending scientific knowledge with moral values and cultural wisdom. At Apeejay School, Noida, it is nurtured through creative initiatives. Class XI student Shatakshi Sharma, Sanskrit editor (newsletter) in 2024–25, shares her journey of promoting the language’s beauty and significance.
How do you think Sanskrit can be made more relevant and engaging for modern students?
Sanskrit is a beautiful and scientific language, yet its presence has declined due to the perceived divide between spirituality and science. To make it relevant, students must first appreciate its moral and cultural value. Teaching it through the wisdom of scriptures that connect to modern subjects like Math, Science, and Music can show its timelessness. Simple practices such as shloka recitation or small activities can further make the learning process engaging.
What role do you see the newsletter playing in this?
A newsletter is a platform to reveal the beauty of languages. For young readers and writers, it can spark interest and inspire expression. I recall reading school magazines as a child and being encouraged to write. In the same way, newsletters can introduce Sanskrit’s expressive power, while student contributions ensure both interest and investment.
Can you share some creative ways you’ve used Sanskrit in the newsletter?
Stories and verses have always carried Sanskrit forward. Hence, we included shloks, moral tales, and passages by fellow students. This blend of tradition and student voice not only preserved culture but also made the newsletter authentic and engaging.
How do you balance the traditional aspects of Sanskrit with modern language?
Newsletters today must be concise and interactive. With Sanskrit, we highlighted wisdom on themes like nature, homeland, and family while presenting them in a refreshing style. This approach respected tradition but appealed to modern readers, keeping the language relatable.
Any notable Sanskrit authors, texts, or works that you’ve featured in the newsletter?
My Sanskrit teacher guided much of this. She emphasised ethics and life lessons embedded in classical works. Inspired by her, we selected verses and stories that conveyed values and practical wisdom, ensuring the newsletter reflected depth as well as relevance.
How do you think the study of Sanskrit can benefit students in their personal and professional lives?
Sanskrit is more than a language; it is a reservoir of knowledge. Covering science, arts, music, and ethics, it provides both practical insight and inner peace. For students, it nurtures values and holistic growth. Through the newsletter, we aimed to showcase this richness, making Sanskrit meaningful and engaging for today’s learners.