Sanskrit, often referred to as the mother of many languages, holds a unique place in the cultural and spiritual fabric of India. Despite being labeled a “dead language” by some, Sanskrit remains very much alive, resonating through religious practices, classical arts, and scholarly pursuits. “Sanskrit is an extremely ancient and rich language, also known as the language of the gods. It should be studied because it forms the foundation of Indian culture. Religious texts such as the Mahabharata, the Puranas, the Upanishads, the Vedas, the Ramayana, and others were written in Sanskrit,” highlights Richa Sharma, Sanskrit Teacher at Apeejay School, Model Town, Jalandhar.
Its significance transcends mere linguistic value, serving as the bedrock of India’s philosophical and literary traditions. In today’s world, where modern languages dominate, it is essential to recognise the enduring relevance of Sanskrit and explore ways to preserve this ancient treasure. The Apeejay teacher further explains, “This language, which is full of moral values, should be taught and understood by as many children and students as possible. It’s because this is a language that promotes the welfare of society; it is sweet in sound, and is simple as well. Not only in India but also abroad, Sanskrit is studied. In Germany, Sanskrit is taught in 14 universities, and a Sanskrit newspaper named Sudharma has been published since 1970. According to NASA, Sanskrit is the most precise language spoken on earth. Sanskrit has more words than any other language in the world; currently, the Sanskrit dictionary contains 102 crore 70 lakh 50 thousand words.”
Furthermore, classical Indian arts, such as Bharatanatyam and Carnatic music, continue to incorporate Sanskrit compositions, ensuring that the language lives on through these performances. Additionally, modern scholars and linguists are increasingly turning to Sanskrit for its grammatical precision and vast vocabulary, recognising its value in fields like computational linguistics and artificial intelligence.
Tales making it popular
One of the most effective ways to ignite interest in Sanskrit is through its timeless literature, particularly its plays. Two of the most iconic works, Abhigyan Shakuntalam by Kalidasa and Mrichhkatika by Shudraka, showcase the depth and relevance of Sanskrit drama.
Abhigyana Shakuntalam, a tale of love, identity, and destiny, captures universal human emotions that resonate with modern audiences. Similarly, Mrichhkatika addresses themes of social justice, love, and morality, offering a narrative that speaks to contemporary issues.
These plays are not just relics of the past but timeless works that continue to engage and inspire readers today. By exploring these works, even in translation, individuals can develop a deeper appreciation for Sanskrit literature. This newfound interest can then lead to learning the language, unlocking a richer understanding of Hindu prayers and rituals.
Preserving Sanskrit requires collective effort. Incorporating Sanskrit education in schools, promoting the translation and adaptation of its literature, and encouraging its use in daily religious and cultural practices are vital steps. Initiatives like World Sanskrit Day serve as reminders of the language’s importance and can inspire more people to take an active role in its preservation.
By fostering a renewed interest in Sanskrit, we not only preserve a language but also ensure the continuation of a cultural and spiritual legacy that has shaped India for millennia.