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Sanskrit

About the Department

The Department of Sanskrit at Sri Aurobindo College, University of Delhi, stands as a pillar of cultural heritage and academic excellence, dedicated to preserving and promoting one of the world’s most ancient and profound languages. The Department of Sanskrit at Sri Aurobindo College, has been an integral part of the institution since its establishment in 1972, marking the birth centenary of the great philosopher, educationist, and modern thought pioneer, Maharshi Aurobindo Ghosh. With the founding of the college, the teaching of Sanskrit began as a core component of the academic framework, particularly within the B.A. program.

The curriculum is thoughtfully designed to balance traditional scholarship with contemporary relevance, encompassing Sanskrit grammar, classical poetry, drama, epics, Vedic literature, and philosophical texts. Special emphasis is placed on connecting ancient wisdom with modern life, enabling students to appreciate the enduring significance of Sanskrit in various disciplines such as linguistics, philosophy, history, and comparative literature.

In addition to academics, the department actively engages students in cultural and literary events, including Sanskrit Day celebrations, shloka recitation competitions, and theatre performances of classical Sanskrit plays. These activities create an immersive environment where students experience the beauty and vibrancy of the language.

By blending rigorous scholarship with a deep respect for India’s cultural legacy, the Department of Sanskrit at Sri Aurobindo College nurtures scholars who are well-versed in tradition yet equipped to engage with contemporary thought. The department’s vision is to inspire future generations to carry forward the timeless wisdom of Sanskrit and to contribute meaningfully to global knowledge and cultural dialogue.

The college motto, drawn from the Bṛhadāraṇyaka Upanishad — “Tamasomājyotirgamaya” (“From darkness, lead me to light”) — reflects the department’s core philosophy of guiding students from ignorance to wisdom.

Vision


  • To make Sanskrit knowledge accessible, engaging, and relevant to all students.
  • To integrate modern technology for preserving and promoting Sanskrit.
  • To explore, digitize, and study manuscripts, inscriptions, and archival treasures.
  • To inspire scientific, analytical thinking through Sanskrit texts.
  • To revive and sustain India’s cultural and literary heritage in socially meaningful ways.
  • To enrich and present the Indian Knowledge System (IKS) to the global community.

Mission


  • To make Sanskrit and its sciences understandable and applicable in contemporary contexts.
  • To combine tradition with technology for modern relevance.
  • To promote moral values, self-discipline, and holistic development through Sanskrit learning.

By bridging tradition and innovation, the Department of Sanskrit at Sri Aurobindo College continues to uphold India’s timeless intellectual heritage while preparing students for a globalized future.

Courses Offered & Syllabus

Faculty

Dr. Vijit Kumar
Dr. Vijit Kumar (Teacher-in-Charge)

Designation: Assistant Professor

Qualification: Ph.D.

Email: vijitkumar1990@gmail.com

Area(s) of Interest: VEDIC LITERATURE, VEDIC GRAMMAR, NIRUKTA, DHARMSHASTRA

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Faculty Achievements

Under process

Departmental Council

Under process

Student Achievements

Under process

Activities

Under process

Capacity Building

The Department of Sanskrit is dedicated not only to imparting traditional knowledge but also to ensuring the holistic development of its students. Its aim is to strengthen language proficiency, analytical ability, creativity, and research skills, thereby preparing students for careers in teaching, research, cultural organizations, and related fields.

Key Initiatives:
  • 1. Academic Enrichment: Organizing seminars, workshops, and special lectures to provide in-depth knowledge of Sanskrit language, literature, and philosophy.
  • 2. Language Skill Development: Training in spoken Sanskrit, translation, recitation of shlokas, and creative writing, enabling students to use Sanskrit as a living language.
  • 3. Research Orientation: Encouraging students in research writing, paper presentations, and participation in conferences to develop analytical and scholarly abilities.
  • 4. Integration of Technology: Use of ICT tools and e-resources to connect Sanskrit learning with modern technological platforms.
  • 5. Cultural and Value-Based Growth: Organizing events like Sanskrit Diwas, poetry recitations,debates, and literary festivals, fostering confidence, leadership, and ethical values.

Through these initiatives, the department ensures that students emerge as confident, skilled, and socially responsible individuals, equipped to carry forward the rich tradition of Sanskrit while adapting to contemporary needs.

Result Analysis

Under process

Distinguished Alumni

Under process

Best Practices

Preservation and Promotion of Ancient Knowledge

Regular teaching and discussion of classical texts (Vedas, Upanishads, Epics, and Sanskrit literature) to preserve India’s intellectual and cultural heritage.

Integration of Tradition with Modernity

Use of modern teaching methods, ICT tools, and interdisciplinary approaches to make Sanskrit learning relevant in contemporary times.

Student-Centered Learning

Adoption of interactive methods such as group recitations, shloka chanting, storytelling, and presentations to enhance participation and retention.

Skill Development

Training in translation, spoken Sanskrit, manuscriptology, and creative writing to equip students for careers in education, research, media, and cultural institutions.

Research and Academic Engagement

Encouragement of research projects, paper presentations, and participation in seminars and workshops to strengthen analytical and interpretative skills.

Cultural and Literary Activities

Organization of Sanskrit Diwas, kavisammelans, debates, and workshops to create interest and promote Sanskrit as a living language.

Community Outreach

Spreading awareness about Sanskrit through extension lectures, school workshops, and collaboration with cultural organizations.

Holistic Development

Mentoring students in ethical values, leadership, and communication skills inspired by Sanskrit literature and philosophy.

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