

BA in Sanskrit at Maharaja Purna Chandra (Autonomous) College


Mayurbhanj, Odisha
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About the Specialization
What is Sanskrit at Maharaja Purna Chandra (Autonomous) College Mayurbhanj?
This Sanskrit program at Maharaja Purna Chandra Autonomous College focuses on a profound exploration of ancient Indian knowledge systems, language, and literature. Rooted in the New Education Policy (NEP), the curriculum integrates classical texts with contemporary relevance. It delves into Vedic literature, classical poetry and prose, grammar, philosophy, dramaturgy, and modern applications like Sanskrit computing, offering a comprehensive understanding of India''''s linguistic and cultural heritage.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for students passionate about India''''s rich cultural and linguistic heritage, fresh graduates aspiring for academic careers in Indology or teaching, and individuals seeking to revive or deepen their understanding of Sanskrit. It also caters to those interested in research, manuscriptology, or utilizing Sanskrit''''s analytical precision in fields like computer science, provided they have a strong interest in foundational textual studies.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including teaching in schools and universities (after qualifying NET/SET), archival work, museum curation, research in Indology, and content creation for cultural organizations. Entry-level salaries might range from INR 2.5-4 LPA, growing significantly with experience and advanced degrees. The program also supports preparation for civil services and positions requiring strong linguistic and analytical skills.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Basic Sanskrit Grammar & Vocabulary- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate consistent time daily to memorize declensions (sabda-rupa) and conjugations (dhatu-rupa), and expand vocabulary. Utilize online resources like ''''Spoken Sanskrit'''' dictionary, ''''SanskritDocuments.org'''' for basic texts, and ''''Ashtadhyayi.com'''' for grammatical tools.
Tools & Resources
Spoken Sanskrit dictionary, SanskritDocuments.org, Ashtadhyayi.com, College Library Sanskrit Section
Career Connection
A strong foundation in grammar is indispensable for accurate comprehension and translation, crucial for all academic and research roles in Sanskrit.
Engage Actively in Communicative Sanskrit- (Semester 1-2)
Participate in departmental Sanskrit speaking clubs or form peer study groups for daily conversation practice. Start with simple sentences and progress to short narratives. This builds confidence and practical language skills beyond textual study.
Tools & Resources
Sanskrit Speaking Clubs (if available), Peer study groups, Simple Sanskrit storybooks
Career Connection
Enhances presentation skills, aids in teaching Sanskrit effectively, and opens avenues for roles requiring oral communication in Sanskrit-related events.
Explore Interdisciplinary Connections Early- (Semester 1-2)
Attend guest lectures or workshops on how Sanskrit intersects with Yoga, Ayurveda, computer science, or history. This broadens perspective and helps identify potential elective choices and future research interests. Engage with Value Added Courses (VAC) like Yoga or Indian Constitution for holistic development.
Tools & Resources
College workshop schedules, Departmental notices, Online academic seminars
Career Connection
Fosters a multidisciplinary approach, valuable for research, policy analysis, and roles that combine traditional knowledge with contemporary fields.
Intermediate Stage
Deep Dive into Classical Texts with Commentaries- (Semester 3-5)
Move beyond basic translations and engage with classical Sanskrit commentaries (ṭīkā) for major texts like Raghuvamsam or Kadambari. This cultivates critical thinking and a nuanced understanding of textual interpretations.
Tools & Resources
College Library (for traditional commentaries), Sanskrit E-text portals, Guidance from faculty
Career Connection
Develops advanced textual analysis skills, essential for academic research, textual criticism, and editorial work in Indology.
Participate in Sanskrit Competitions & Conferences- (Semester 3-5)
Take part in departmental or inter-college debates, elocution contests, or essay writing competitions in Sanskrit. Consider presenting papers at student conferences on topics of interest, which provides early exposure to academic discourse.
Tools & Resources
College cultural committees, Sanskrit department notice board, Junior research symposiums
Career Connection
Builds confidence, public speaking skills, and hones research and presentation abilities crucial for academic and public-facing roles.
Undertake Mini-Research Projects or Internships- (Semester 3-5)
Collaborate with faculty on small research projects or seek internships at local cultural centers, manuscript libraries, or NGOs working on heritage preservation. This provides practical experience in research, archiving, or educational outreach.
Tools & Resources
Faculty guidance, Local cultural organizations, Museums/Archives
Career Connection
Offers hands-on experience, strengthens CV, helps in networking, and clarifies career interests in research, curation, or social work.
Advanced Stage
Specialize through Electives and Advanced Studies- (Semester 6-8)
Carefully choose Major Electives (SANS-MJ-E) that align with your long-term career goals, whether it''''s philosophy, linguistics, or digital humanities. Pursue independent study on specific topics with faculty mentorship to deepen expertise.
Tools & Resources
Departmental elective brochures, Faculty advisors, Advanced research journals
Career Connection
Develops a specialized knowledge base, making you a more competitive candidate for niche research roles or higher studies.
Intensive NET/SET/Civil Services Exam Preparation- (Semester 6-8)
Begin focused preparation for competitive exams like UGC NET/SET for lectureship/junior research fellowship or state/central civil services exams. Integrate syllabus topics into study routines and practice previous year question papers.
Tools & Resources
NET/SET study materials, Coaching institutes (if desired), Online test series
Career Connection
Directly prepares for high-demand academic positions and prestigious government roles in India, ensuring career progression.
Develop and Present a High-Quality Research Dissertation- (Semester 7-8)
Work diligently on your Research Project/Dissertation (SANS-RP-C1 & C2), ensuring originality, rigorous methodology, and clear argumentation. Present your findings effectively in departmental seminars and consider publishing an abridged version in a college journal.
Tools & Resources
Research guides, Statistical software (if applicable), Academic writing resources
Career Connection
Provides a significant academic credential, showcases research capabilities to potential employers or PhD programs, and prepares for a research-oriented career.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 pass in any stream from a recognized board.
Duration: 4 years (8 semesters) for Hons. with Research, 3 years (6 semesters) for Bachelor Hons.
Credits: 160 (for 4-year Hons. with Research) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SANS-MJ-C1 | History of Sanskrit Literature & Classical Sanskrit Poetry | Major Core | 4 | Origin & Development of Sanskrit Literature, Vedic Literature, Ramayana & Mahabharata, Raghuvamsam (Canto I), Kiratarjuniyam (Canto I) |
| AEC1 | Communicative Sanskrit | Ability Enhancement Course | 2 | Sanskrit वर्णमाला (Alphabet), Basic Grammar and Vocabulary, Sentence Structure, Simple Dialogues and Conversation, Everyday Expressions |
| VAC1 | Yoga and Holistic Health | Value Added Course | 2 | Introduction to Yoga, Asanas and Pranayama, Meditation Techniques, Stress Management, Principles of Healthy Living |
| MDC1 | Multidisciplinary Course - I | Multidisciplinary (Student Choice) | 3 |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SANS-MJ-C2 | Classical Sanskrit Prose & Poetics | Major Core | 4 | Major Sanskrit Prose Writers (Bana Bhatta, Dandin), Kadambari (Shukanasopadesha), Dashakumaracharitam (8th Ucchvasa), Kavyaprakasha (1st Ullasa), Theory of Alamkaras (Figures of Speech) |
| SEC1 | Functional Sanskrit | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Sanskrit for Daily Communication, Formal Letter Writing in Sanskrit, Email Drafting in Sanskrit, Simple Narrative Composition, Practical Application of Sanskrit |
| Minor | Minor Subject - I | Minor (Student Choice from other disciplines) | 4 |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SANS-MJ-C3 | Vedic Literature & Darshanas | Major Core | 4 | Rgveda (Agnisukta), Isopanisad, Mimamsa Darshana (Basic Concepts), Nyaya Darshana (Epistemology), Vaisheshika Darshana (Metaphysics) |
| SANS-MJ-C4 | Sanskrit Grammar & Linguistics | Major Core | 4 | Paniniya Shiksha, Ashtadhyayi (Selected Sutras), Phonetics of Sanskrit, Morphology (Sabda & Dhatu), Semantics and Etymology |
| AEC2 | Environmental Studies | Ability Enhancement Course | 2 | Ecosystems and Biodiversity, Environmental Pollution, Climate Change Impacts, Sustainable Development, Environmental Ethics |
| VAC2 | Indian Constitution | Value Added Course | 2 | Preamble of the Constitution, Fundamental Rights and Duties, Directive Principles of State Policy, Structure of Indian Government, Basic Constitutional Framework |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SANS-MJ-C5 | Dramaturgy & Literary Criticism | Major Core | 4 | Natya Shastra (Fundamentals), Dasharupaka (Types of Drama), Rasa Theory (Bharata''''s Sutra), Dhvani Theory (Anandavardhana), Vyanjana (Suggestive Meaning) |
| SANS-MJ-C6 | Puranas, Itihasas & Epics | Major Core | 4 | Mahabharata (Vidura Niti), Ramayana (Sita Parityaga), Bhagavata Purana (Selected Skandhas), Concept and Significance of Puranas, Cultural Role of Epics |
| SEC2 | Translation & Essay Writing | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Principles of Translation, Sanskrit to English Translation, English to Sanskrit Translation, Sanskrit Essay Writing, Composition Techniques |
| Minor | Minor Subject - II | Minor (Student Choice from other disciplines) | 4 |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SANS-MJ-C7 | Advaita Vedanta & Yoga Philosophy | Major Core | 4 | Brahma Sutra (Selected Adhikaranas), Shankara''''s Advaita Philosophy, Patanjali Yoga Sutras (Selected Parts), Ashtanga Yoga Principles, Concept of Brahman and Atman |
| SANS-MJ-C8 | Manuscriptology & Textual Criticism | Major Core | 4 | Origin of Indian Scripts (Brahmi, Kharoshthi), Types and Features of Manuscripts, Methods of Textual Collation, Principles of Critical Edition, Preservation of Manuscripts |
| SANS-MJ-E1 | Sanskrit and Computer Applications | Major Elective | 4 | Sanskrit Computational Linguistics, Unicode for Sanskrit, Digital Libraries of Sanskrit Texts, Text Analysis Tools, Introduction to Natural Language Processing |
| MDC2 | Multidisciplinary Course - II | Multidisciplinary (Student Choice) | 3 |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SANS-MJ-C9 | Buddhist & Jain Sanskrit Literature | Major Core | 4 | Ashvaghosha''''s Buddhacharita, Mahayana Sutras (Selected), Jain Agamas (Selected), Buddhist Logic and Epistemology, Contribution of Jainism to Sanskrit Literature |
| SANS-MJ-C10 | Modern Sanskrit Literature & Research Methodology | Major Core | 4 | Trends in Modern Sanskrit Poetry & Drama, Prominent Modern Sanskrit Authors, Formulation of Research Problem, Hypothesis and Research Design, Bibliography and Referencing |
| SANS-MJ-E2 | History of Science in Sanskrit | Major Elective | 4 | Astronomy in Ancient India (Aryabhata), Mathematics in Sanskrit Texts (Bhaskara II), Ayurveda Principles (Charaka, Sushruta), Vastu Shastra Fundamentals, Environmental Concepts in Sanskrit |
| VAC3 | Digital Empowerment | Value Added Course | 2 | Basic Computer Skills, Internet and Web Browsing, Digital Payment Systems, Cyber Security Awareness, Use of Digital Tools |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SANS-MJ-C11 | Kavya Shastra & Aesthetics | Major Core | 4 | Detailed Study of Alamkaras, Ritis and Gunas, Dhvanyaloka (Theory of Dhvani), Rasagangadhara (Principles of Rasa), Sanskrit Poetics and Artistic Expression |
| SANS-MJ-C12 | Literary Theories & Criticism | Major Core | 4 | Introduction to Western Literary Theories, Comparative Literary Criticism, Intertextuality in Sanskrit Literature, Hermeneutics and Interpretation, Critical Approaches to Sanskrit Texts |
| SANS-MJ-E3 | Sanskrit and Social Sciences | Major Elective | 4 | Political Thought in Sanskrit Texts, Economic Ideas in Ancient India, Sociological Aspects of Sanskrit Literature, Family and Social Structures, Ethics and Governance |
| SANS-RP-C1 | Research Project / Dissertation - I | Research Project | 4 | Research Proposal Development, Extensive Literature Review, Methodology and Data Collection, Initial Chapter Outline, Ethical Considerations in Research |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SANS-MJ-C13 | Advanced Sanskrit Grammar | Major Core | 4 | Siddhanta Kaumudi (Selected Portions), Mahabhashya (Pashpashahnika), Philosophy of Sanskrit Grammar, Advanced Morphological Analysis, Syntax and Sentence Construction |
| SANS-MJ-C14 | Vedic Exegesis & Ritual Studies | Major Core | 4 | Nirukta (Etymology of Vedic Words), Brahmana Texts (Interpretation), Shrauta Sutras (Vedic Sacrifices), Grihya Sutras (Domestic Rituals), Socio-Religious Aspects of Vedic Culture |
| SANS-MJ-E4 | Contemporary Issues in Sanskrit | Major Elective | 4 | Sanskrit Revival Movements, Sanskrit in Modern Education, Sanskrit and Global Perspectives, Indigenous Knowledge Systems, Challenges and Opportunities for Sanskrit |
| SANS-RP-C2 | Research Project / Dissertation - II | Research Project | 4 | Final Thesis Writing and Structuring, Editing and Proofreading Techniques, Preparation for Viva-Voce Examination, Strategies for Research Publication, Scholarly Communication and Dissemination |




