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B-A-HONS in Sanskrit at Jawaharlal Nehru University
Delhi, Delhi
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About the Specialization
What is Sanskrit at Jawaharlal Nehru University Delhi?
This Sanskrit program at Jawaharlal Nehru University focuses on a comprehensive study of classical and modern Sanskrit language and literature, philosophy, and cultural traditions. It emphasizes linguistic proficiency, critical analysis of texts, and an understanding of India''''s intellectual heritage. The program is unique in its interdisciplinary approach, preparing students for both traditional scholarship and contemporary applications of Sanskrit in areas like computational linguistics and cultural studies, responding to growing global and national interest in Indic knowledge systems.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a passion for Indian languages, philosophy, and ancient wisdom seeking entry into research, teaching, or cultural preservation. It also suits individuals interested in Indology, linguistics, or those aspiring for civil services, where a strong foundation in Indian culture is beneficial. Students from diverse academic backgrounds with a curiosity for classical languages and their modern relevance will find this program enriching.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including academic positions (lecturer, researcher), content development for cultural institutions, translation, journalism, and even computational linguistics. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-6 LPA, growing significantly with experience in research or specialized fields. The program builds a foundation for higher studies (MA, PhD) and careers in government cultural departments or international organizations promoting Indian culture.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Grammar & Vocabulary- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate daily time to practice fundamental Sanskrit grammar rules (Sandhi, Karaka, Samasa) and build a strong vocabulary base. Use traditional methods like memorizing Dhatupathas and Shabdaroopas to ensure a solid linguistic foundation.
Tools & Resources
Ashtadhyayi of Panini (with commentaries), Laghu Siddhanta Kaumudi, JNU''''s departmental language labs, SpokenSanskrit.org
Career Connection
A strong linguistic foundation is crucial for accurate textual analysis, academic research, teaching, and any future application of Sanskrit, enabling clear communication and precise interpretation.
Engage in Peer Learning & Discussion- (Semester 1-2)
Form study groups to discuss complex grammatical concepts, collaboratively translate texts, and practice spoken Sanskrit. Participate actively in classroom discussions to clarify doubts and gain diverse perspectives from peers and faculty.
Tools & Resources
Departmental common rooms, Google Meet for remote study groups, JNU''''s cultural clubs related to Indian languages, Online forums for Sanskrit learners
Career Connection
Develops critical thinking, enhances communication skills, and fosters collaborative abilities essential for academic research, teaching, and professional teamwork in any field.
Explore Sanskrit Literature Beyond Syllabus- (Semester 1-2)
Read simplified versions or selected passages of classical Sanskrit literature (e.g., Panchatantra, Hitopadesha) to develop a deeper appreciation for the language, its narrative traditions, and its rich cultural context. Attend departmental lectures or workshops.
Tools & Resources
JNU Central Library''''s Sanskrit section, GRETIL (Gottingen Register of Electronic Texts in Indian Languages), Cultural events organized by the School of Sanskrit and Indic Studies
Career Connection
Enhances cultural literacy, contextual understanding, and critical appreciation, skills invaluable for roles in cultural preservation, heritage management, and interdisciplinary research endeavors.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Translation & Interpretation Projects- (Semester 3-4)
Actively seek opportunities for practical translation work, starting with short stories or philosophical verses, and gradually moving to more complex texts. Focus on both word-for-word accuracy and nuanced contextual interpretation of Sanskrit texts.
Tools & Resources
Bilingual dictionaries (Sanskrit-English/Hindi), Specialized Sanskrit lexicons, Guidance from faculty mentors, Departmental translation workshops
Career Connection
Develops highly sought-after skills for roles in translation agencies, academic publishing, content creation for cultural media, and international relations, bridging ancient wisdom with modern communication.
Participate in National & Regional Conferences/Seminars- (Semester 3-4)
Attend relevant academic events on Indology, linguistics, philosophy, or Sanskrit studies to expose yourself to current research trends and network with scholars. Consider presenting a short paper or poster based on your coursework and research.
Tools & Resources
JNU''''s academic calendar for events, Notifications from institutions like IGNCA, Sahitya Akademi, Faculty support for paper guidance and mentorship
Career Connection
Builds academic credibility, opens networking opportunities for higher studies and research positions, and enhances presentation skills crucial for scholarly careers and public engagement.
Explore Computational Tools for Sanskrit- (Semester 3-4)
Familiarize yourself with basic computational approaches to Sanskrit, such as digital text archives, Sanskrit NLP tools, and encoding standards. Consider taking a basic course in programming or digital humanities to gain practical skills.
Tools & Resources
Sanskrit Heritage Site, Digital Sanskrit Lexicon, Basic Python tutorials for text processing, JNU''''s School of Computer and Systems Sciences for relevant introductory courses
Career Connection
Positions you for emerging roles in digital humanities, computational linguistics, and archiving, effectively bridging traditional Sanskrit scholarship with modern technology applications in India.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Research Project / Dissertation- (Semester 5-6)
Work closely with a faculty mentor to select a specialized topic in Sanskrit, conduct in-depth research, and write a comprehensive dissertation or research paper. Focus on developing original arguments and critical analysis skills.
Tools & Resources
JNU Central Library''''s extensive collection, Online research databases (e.g., JSTOR, Project MUSE), Dedicated faculty supervision and mentorship, Academic writing workshops offered by the university
Career Connection
This experience is essential for pursuing M.A. and Ph.D. programs, establishing a strong research profile, and securing academic positions in Indian universities and research institutions.
Prepare for UGC NET/JRF & Higher Education Exams- (Semester 5-6)
Begin focused preparation for competitive exams like UGC NET/JRF for lectureship and research fellowships, and entrance exams for M.A. or Ph.D. programs in Sanskrit. Analyze previous year papers and identify knowledge gaps systematically.
Tools & Resources
Previous year question papers for NET/JRF, JNU''''s career counseling cell guidance, Subject-specific coaching materials, Dedicated peer study groups for collaborative preparation
Career Connection
Directly facilitates a pathway to academic careers as an Assistant Professor in Indian universities and colleges, or secures prestigious research fellowships for advanced studies.
Network with Scholars & Professionals in Indology- (undefined)
Actively attend major national and international Indology conferences, connect with established scholars, and explore potential mentorship or collaboration opportunities. Join professional bodies for Sanskrit scholars and researchers to expand your network.
Tools & Resources
Academic social media platforms (e.g., ResearchGate, Academia.edu), University alumni networks, Relevant academic associations (e.g., International Association of Sanskrit Studies)
Career Connection
Opens doors to advanced research opportunities, collaborations with leading experts, and professional guidance, significantly enhancing long-term career growth and impact in the field of Sanskrit studies.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Senior School Certificate (10+2) or equivalent with minimum 45% marks.
Duration: 3 Years / 6 Semesters
Credits: 136 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30% (Continuous Assessment), External: 70% (End Semester Examination)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SANS101 | Basic Sanskrit Grammar and Composition | Core Course (CC) | 6 | Sanskrit Alphabet and Pronunciation, Sandhi and Samasa Introduction, Declension of Nouns (Shabdaroopas), Conjugation of Verbs (Dhaturoopas), Simple Sentence Construction and Translation |
| SANS102 | History of Sanskrit Literature (Vedic & Classical) | Core Course (CC) | 6 | Vedic Literature: Samhitas, Brahmanas, Aranyakas, Upanishads and Early Philosophical Texts, Epic Literature: Ramayana and Mahabharata, Classical Sanskrit Poetry: Mahakavyas and Khandakavyas, Classical Sanskrit Prose and Drama |
| GE1 | Generic Elective - I (Choice Based) | Generic Elective (GE) | 4 | |
| AECC1 | Environmental Studies | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course (AECC) | 4 | Multidisciplinary Nature of Environmental Studies, Natural Resources and Ecosystems, Biodiversity and Conservation, Environmental Pollution and Control, Global Environmental Issues, Policies and Practices |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SANS203 | Advanced Sanskrit Grammar and Etymology | Core Course (CC) | 6 | Karaka System and its Application, Advanced Samasa and Krdanta, Taddhita Formation and Usage, Introduction to Sanskrit Linguistics and Etymology, Analysis of Complex Sanskrit Sentences |
| SANS204 | Sanskrit Prose and Poetic Texts | Core Course (CC) | 6 | Selected Passages from Kadambari, Excerpts from Raghuvamsham, Study of Poetic Figures (Alankaras), Analysis of Literary Style and Aesthetics, Critical Appreciation of Classical Sanskrit Works |
| GE2 | Generic Elective - II (Choice Based) | Generic Elective (GE) | 4 | |
| AECC2 | Communicative English / MIL | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course (AECC) | 4 | Fundamentals of Communication, Reading Comprehension and Vocabulary Building, Writing Skills: Essay, Report, Letter Writing, Grammar for Effective Communication, Listening and Speaking Skills |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SANS305 | Nyaya and Vaisheshika Philosophy | Core Course (CC) | 6 | Introduction to Indian Philosophical Schools, Pramanas (Means of Knowledge) in Nyaya, Padarthas (Categories) in Vaisheshika, Concept of Inference (Anumana) and Perception (Pratyaksha), Theory of Causation and Atoms |
| SANS306 | Vedānta Philosophy | Core Course (CC) | 6 | Upanishadic Foundations of Vedanta, Brahma Sutras: Key Concepts, Advaita Vedanta: Shankara''''s Philosophy of Non-duality, Vishishtadvaita: Ramanuja''''s Qualified Monism, Dvaita Vedanta: Madhva''''s Dualism |
| SANS307 | Indian Poetics and Literary Criticism | Core Course (CC) | 6 | Rasa Theory: Concept and Application, Dhvani Theory: Suggestive Meaning, Alankaras: Figures of Speech, Gunas and Ritis: Stylistic Qualities, Vakrokti and Auchitya: Theories of Poetic Expression |
| GE3 | Generic Elective - III (Choice Based) | Generic Elective (GE) | 4 | |
| SANS308 | Skill Enhancement Course - I (e.g., Spoken Sanskrit) | Skill Enhancement Course (SEC) | 2 | Conversational Sanskrit: Everyday Dialogues, Basic Sentence Patterns and Vocabulary for Speaking, Role-playing and Interactive Exercises, Pronunciation and Intonation Practice, Understanding and Responding to Simple Commands |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SANS409 | Yoga Philosophy and Practices | Core Course (CC) | 6 | Patanjali''''s Yoga Sutras: Ashtanga Yoga, Yama and Niyama: Ethical Disciplines, Asana and Pranayama: Postures and Breath Control, Pratyahara, Dharana, Dhyana, Samadhi, Yoga in Modern Context |
| SANS410 | Mimānsā and Sāmkhya Philosophy | Core Course (CC) | 6 | Mimansa Philosophy: Dharma, Rituals and Vedic Interpretation, Theory of Shabda (Word) and its Authority, Samkhya Philosophy: Prakriti and Purusha, Theory of Gunas and Evolution of Cosmos, Kaivalya: The Goal of Samkhya |
| SANS411 | Pāṇinian Grammar (Laghu Siddhanta Kaumudi) | Core Course (CC) | 6 | Introduction to Ashtadhyayi and its Structure, Sutras, Varttikas, and Paribhashas, Samjna and Paribhasha Prakarana, Sandhi Prakarana in Detail, Nominal and Verbal Derivations |
| GE4 | Generic Elective - IV (Choice Based) | Generic Elective (GE) | 4 | |
| SANS412 | Skill Enhancement Course - II (e.g., Manuscriptology) | Skill Enhancement Course (SEC) | 2 | Introduction to Indian Scripts and Paleography, Preservation and Conservation of Manuscripts, Cataloguing and Archiving Techniques, Textual Criticism and Editing of Manuscripts, Digital Manuscriptology |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SANS513 | Sanskrit Literary Aesthetics and Dramaturgy | Core Course (CC) | 6 | Natya Shastra: Principles of Indian Drama, Elements of Drama: Plot, Character, Sentiment, Types of Sanskrit Plays and their Characteristics, Rasa and Bhava in Dramatic Performance, Evolution of Indian Theatre |
| SANS514 | Vaidika Sanskrit (Selected Hymns and Prose) | Core Course (CC) | 6 | Introduction to Vedic Language and Grammar, Selected Hymns from Rigveda and Atharvaveda, Vedic Deities and Mythology, Aitareya Brahmana: Selected Passages, Shatapatha Brahmana: Significance |
| SANS515 | Discipline Specific Elective - I (e.g., Jyotisha) | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 6 | Basic Principles of Indian Astronomy and Astrology, Planets (Grahas) and Zodiac Signs (Rashis), Concept of Nakshatras and Houses (Bhavas), Introduction to Panchanga (Almanac), Astrological Calculations and Interpretations |
| SANS516 | Discipline Specific Elective - II (e.g., Dharmaśāstra) | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 6 | Sources of Dharma: Vedas, Smritis, Sadachara, Varna-Ashrama Dharma: Social and Individual Duties, Samskaras: Rites of Passage, Legal and Ethical System in Ancient India (Manusmriti), Concept of Karma and Moksha in Dharmashastra |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SANS617 | Jainism and Buddhism | Core Course (CC) | 6 | Jainism: Mahavira''''s Teachings, Tirthankaras, Ahimsa, Anekantavada, Syadvada, Karma Theory and Moksha in Jainism, Buddhism: Buddha''''s Life and Teachings, Four Noble Truths and Eightfold Path, Nirvana |
| SANS618 | Sanskrit and Computer Applications | Core Course (CC) | 6 | Sanskrit Text Encoding: Unicode, Romanization, Digital Libraries and Archives for Sanskrit Texts, Introduction to Natural Language Processing (NLP) for Sanskrit, Computational Linguistics for Ancient Indian Languages, Machine Translation Challenges for Sanskrit |
| SANS619 | Discipline Specific Elective - III (e.g., Medical Sciences in Ancient India) | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 6 | Ayurveda: Fundamental Principles (Doshas, Dhatus, Malas), Charaka Samhita: Theory of Medicine, Sushruta Samhita: Surgical Knowledge, Concept of Health and Disease in Ancient India, Yoga and Naturopathy in Classical Texts |
| SANS620 | Discipline Specific Elective - IV (e.g., Translation Studies) | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 6 | Theories of Translation: Equivalence, Fidelity, Adaptation, Challenges in Translating Sanskrit Texts, Practical Translation: Sanskrit to English/Hindi, Translation of Philosophical and Literary Texts, Cultural Nuances in Translation |
