Sanskrit, the ancient language of India, is experiencing a resurgence in popularity, but surprisingly, it’s not Indians who are driving this trend. Instead, foreigners from around the world are flocking to learn Sanskrit, drawn by its beauty, complexity, and spiritual significance.
The global appeal of Sanskrit
Sanskrit is an incredibly rich and expressive language, with a vast literature that spans over 3,000 years. Its beauty and complexity have captivated scholars and enthusiasts from around the world, who are drawn to its:
1. Spiritual Significance: Sanskrit is the language of many Hindu scriptures, including the Vedas and the Upanishads. Its spiritual significance attracts seekers of knowledge and wisdom from diverse backgrounds.
2. Linguistic Complexity: Sanskrit is a highly inflected language with a complex grammar system. Its nuances and intricacies appeal to language enthusiasts and scholars.
3. Cultural Heritage: Sanskrit is a window into India’s rich cultural heritage, offering insights into the country’s history, philosophy, and art.
Interesting facts about Sanskrit
- It is believed to have been generated by Lord Brahma
- English has only one word for ‘Love’, Sanskrit has 96
- Sudharma is the only Sanskrit newspaper in the world
- Mattur in Karnatakais the only village in India where everyone speaks Sanskrit
- It is the most computer friendly language
- NASA: Sanskrit is the only unambiguous language
- Sanskrit influenced 97% of the world’s languages
Foreigners flock to learn Sanskrit
As a result of its global appeal, foreigners are flocking to learn Sanskrit. Many universities and institutions around the world offer Sanskrit courses, attracting students from diverse backgrounds. Some notable examples include:
1. Harvard University: Harvard offers a range of Sanskrit courses, from introductory classes to advanced seminars.
2. University of Oxford: Oxford has a thriving Sanskrit program, with courses covering topics like Sanskrit literature, philosophy, and linguistics.
3. University of California, Berkeley: Berkeley offers Sanskrit courses as part of its South and Southeast Asian Studies program.
Indians lag behind in learning Sanskrit
Despite its rich cultural heritage and global appeal, Sanskrit education in India is facing significant challenges. Many Indians are not learning Sanskrit, and the language is often relegated to the margins of the education system. Some reasons for this include:
1. Lack of Infrastructure: Many Indian schools and universities lack the infrastructure and resources to teach Sanskrit effectively.
2. Limited Job Opportunities: The perception that Sanskrit is not a “practical” language with limited job opportunities can discourage students from pursuing it.
3. Colonial Legacy: The colonial legacy of prioritizing English and other European languages over Sanskrit has contributed to the language’s decline in India.
Initiatives to promote Sanskrit education in India
To address the decline of Sanskrit education in India, several initiatives have been launched:
1. Sanskrit Universities: Several Sanskrit universities have been established in India, offering courses and degree programs in Sanskrit.
2. Sanskrit Language Courses: Many institutions, including the Rashtriya Sanskrit Sansthan, offer Sanskrit language courses for students and professionals.
3. Online Resources: Online resources, such as Sanskrit language learning apps and websites, are making it easier for Indians to learn Sanskrit.
Conclusion
The phenomenon of foreigners learning Sanskrit in greater numbers than Indians is a wake-up call for India’s education system. It highlights the need to prioritize Sanskrit education and promote the language as a vital part of India’s cultural heritage. By supporting initiatives that promote Sanskrit education, India can ensure that its rich linguistic and cultural legacy continues to thrive.
