

BA-HONS in Sanskrit at S.S.L.N.T. Mahila Mahavidyalaya, Dhanbad


Dhanbad, Jharkhand
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About the Specialization
What is Sanskrit at S.S.L.N.T. Mahila Mahavidyalaya, Dhanbad Dhanbad?
This Sanskrit Hons program at Shree Shree Lakshmi Narayan Trust Mahila Mahavidyalaya focuses on in-depth study of ancient Indian language, literature, philosophy, and culture. It covers Vedic texts, classical poetry, drama, grammar, linguistics, and various philosophical schools. The program aims to revive and promote Sanskrit''''s rich heritage, catering to a growing interest in traditional Indian knowledge systems and contributing to cultural preservation efforts.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for students passionate about Indian heritage, ancient languages, and philosophical thought. It attracts fresh graduates aspiring to careers in teaching, research, and cultural institutions, as well as those seeking a strong foundation for higher studies in Indology. Individuals with an analytical bent and a desire to explore the roots of Indian civilization will find this course highly rewarding.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including academic roles as professors and researchers, or positions in cultural organizations, publishing houses specializing in ancient texts, and government bodies promoting languages. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 2.5 LPA to 4.5 LPA, with experienced professionals earning significantly more in academic and research roles, contributing to national intellectual wealth.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Basic Sanskrit Grammar & Vocabulary- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate consistent time daily to learn and revise Sanskrit grammar rules, verb conjugations, and declensions. Utilize online resources like ''''Spoken Sanskrit'''' and ''''Learn Sanskrit'''' apps to build foundational vocabulary and pronunciation.
Tools & Resources
Ashtadhyayi (basic portions), Laghu Siddhanta Kaumudi, Spoken Sanskrit App, Flashcards
Career Connection
A strong grammatical base is crucial for accurate interpretation of texts, essential for research and academic roles, enabling clearer communication and scholarship.
Engage Actively in Classical Text Reading Groups- (Semester 1-2)
Form small study groups with peers to read and discuss classical Sanskrit texts, focusing on comprehension, literary analysis, and different interpretations. This fosters peer learning and deepens understanding of literary nuances.
Tools & Resources
Copies of classical texts (Raghuvansham, Abhijnanashakuntalam), Commentaries (like Mallinatha), Group discussion platforms
Career Connection
Develops critical analytical skills and collaborative abilities, valuable for research, teaching, and participation in intellectual discourse, enhancing academic and professional standing.
Participate in College Cultural & Language Events- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in college Sanskrit Divas celebrations, literary fests, and debates. Present on topics, recite shlokas, or engage in discussions to improve confidence in public speaking and deepen cultural appreciation.
Tools & Resources
College cultural committees, Sanskrit department events, Public speaking guides
Career Connection
Builds confidence, communication skills, and leadership potential, beneficial for roles requiring presentations, public engagement, and cultural advocacy.
Intermediate Stage
Explore Philosophical Debates & Commentaries- (Semester 3-5)
Beyond the core texts, delve into original commentaries of various Darshanas (Nyaya, Samkhya, Vedanta) to understand different schools of thought. Engage in philosophical discussions with faculty and senior students.
Tools & Resources
Original Darshana texts, Scholarly articles on philosophical interpretations, Departmental seminars
Career Connection
Cultivates analytical reasoning, logical argumentation, and critical thinking, highly valued in advanced research, academic scholarship, and even competitive examinations.
Undertake Mini-Research Projects on Historical/Linguistic Topics- (Semester 3-5)
Collaborate with professors or peers on small research projects focusing on specific aspects of Sanskrit philology, epigraphy, or history of literature. Learn to use library resources and academic databases effectively.
Tools & Resources
University library, JSTOR, Google Scholar, National Mission for Manuscripts database (online)
Career Connection
Develops research methodology, academic writing skills, and independent inquiry, preparing for Master''''s/Ph.D. programs and research-oriented careers in Indology.
Attend National/Regional Sanskrit Conferences & Workshops- (Semester 3-5)
Seek opportunities to attend conferences, workshops, or lecture series organized by Sanskrit academies or universities. This exposes students to current research trends, networking with scholars, and presenting their own ideas.
Tools & Resources
Academic conference listings, Departmental notices, Travel grants (if available)
Career Connection
Expands professional network, provides exposure to diverse academic perspectives, and enhances presentation skills crucial for an academic or research career.
Advanced Stage
Specialize in a Niche Area of Sanskrit Studies- (Semester 6)
Identify a specific area of interest (e.g., Vedic studies, Sanskrit poetics, philosophical schools, or Digital Sanskrit) and deepen knowledge through elective choices, independent reading, and seeking mentorship from faculty.
Tools & Resources
Advanced texts in chosen specialization, Research journals, Faculty advisors
Career Connection
Helps in developing expertise, making one a specialist in a high-demand niche, leading to focused career opportunities in research, teaching, and specialized translation work.
Prepare for NET/JRF and Other Competitive Exams- (Semester 6)
Begin focused preparation for national-level examinations like UGC NET/JRF, which are essential for academic careers in India. Practice previous year question papers and enroll in relevant coaching if necessary.
Tools & Resources
UGC NET/JRF syllabus and past papers, Online test series, Coaching institutes for Sanskrit
Career Connection
Crucial for securing lectureship and research fellowships in Indian universities, paving the way for a stable and respected academic career path.
Develop Digital Sanskrit Skills and E-Content Creation- (Semester 6)
Learn to use software and tools for digitizing Sanskrit texts, creating e-resources, and engaging with online Sanskrit learning platforms. Explore opportunities in digital humanities projects.
Tools & Resources
Unicode Sanskrit fonts, Optical Character Recognition (OCR) for Devanagari, Digital library platforms
Career Connection
Adapts traditional knowledge to modern platforms, opening careers in digital archiving, e-learning content development, and tech companies working on Indian languages, adding a contemporary edge.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Pass in 10+2 or equivalent examination from a recognized board.
Duration: 3 years (6 semesters)
Credits: 140 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20-25%, External: 75-80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC 1 | Classical Sanskrit Literature (Poetry) | Core Course | 6 | Raghuvansham by Kalidasa (Cantos I & II), Kiratarjuniyam by Bharavi (Canto I), Meghdootam by Kalidasa (Purvamegha), Kadambari by Banabhatta (Shukanasopadesha), History of Sanskrit Poetry, Literary analysis of selected texts |
| CC 2 | Sanskrit Grammar & Linguistics | Core Course | 6 | Siddhanta Kaumudi (Karaka Prakarana), Laghu Siddhanta Kaumudi (Sandhi Prakarana), Introduction to Linguistics (Phonetics, Morphology), Sanskrit Phonology and Morphology, Paninian Grammar System, Word formation and sentence structure |
| GE 1 | Generic Elective 1 (Student Choice from other disciplines) | Generic Elective | 6 | |
| AECC 1 | Environmental Studies | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | Natural Resources and their Conservation, Ecosystems and Biodiversity, Environmental Pollution and Control, Social Issues and the Environment, Human Population and Environment, Environmental ethics and policies |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC 3 | Classical Sanskrit Literature (Drama) | Core Course | 6 | Abhijnanashakuntalam by Kalidasa (Act IV), Mricchakatikam by Shudraka (Act I), Mudrarakshasam by Vishakhadatta (Act I), Theory of Sanskrit Drama (Natyashastra), Prominent Sanskrit Dramatists and their works, Elements of Sanskrit dramaturgy |
| CC 4 | History of Sanskrit Literature | Core Course | 6 | Vedic Literature (Samhitas, Brahmanas, Aranyakas, Upanishads), Epic Literature (Ramayana, Mahabharata), Puranic and Smriti Literature, Classical Sanskrit Literature (Kavya, Nataka), Scientific and Technical Literature in Sanskrit, Modern Sanskrit Literature |
| GE 2 | Generic Elective 2 (Student Choice from other disciplines) | Generic Elective | 6 | |
| AECC 2 | English Communication / Hindi Communication | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | Grammar and Usage, Reading Comprehension, Writing Skills (Essays, Reports, Letters), Listening and Speaking Skills, Effective Communication Strategies, Presentation techniques |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC 5 | Vedic Literature & Darshanas | Core Course | 6 | Selected Hymns from Rigveda, Ishavasya Upanishad, Katha Upanishad, Introduction to Nyaya and Vaisheshika Darshana, Basic Concepts of Vedic Philosophy, Philosophical implications of Upanishads |
| CC 6 | Sanskrit Prose & Poetics | Core Course | 6 | Dashakumaracharitam by Dandin (Uchchhvsa VIII), Harshacharitam by Banabhatta (Uchchhvsa I), Kavyaprakasha by Mammata (Selected Chapters), Sahityadarpanam by Vishwanatha (Parichchheda I, II, X), Alankara Shastra (Key Concepts: Shabdalankaras, Arthalankaras), Rasa-Dhvani theory |
| CC 7 | Sanskrit Epigraphy & Paleography | Core Course | 6 | Origin and Development of Brahmi Script, Important Indian Inscriptions (Ashokan Edicts, Nasik Cave Inscriptions), Principles of Paleography, Introduction to Manuscriptology, Dating and Preservation of Manuscripts, Role of inscriptions in reconstructing history |
| GE 3 | Generic Elective 3 (Student Choice from other disciplines) | Generic Elective | 6 | |
| SEC 1 | Skill Enhancement Course 1 (Student Choice, e.g., Yoga & Wellness or other options) | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC 8 | Puranas, Itihas & Dharmashastra | Core Course | 6 | Selected Cantos from Ramayana and Mahabharata, Key Concepts from Puranas (Cosmology, Genealogies), Manusmriti (Selected Chapters on Dharma, Varna, Ashrama), Yagnavalkya Smriti (Vyavaharadhyaya), Ancient Indian Social and Legal Systems, Importance of Puranas and Itihas as sources of knowledge |
| CC 9 | Sanskrit Philology & Linguistics | Core Course | 6 | Indo-European Family of Languages, Vedic and Classical Sanskrit Differences, Semantic Change in Sanskrit Words, Etymology and Nirukta, Principles of Historical Linguistics, Dialects and variations in Sanskrit |
| CC 10 | Sanskrit Literary Criticism & Aesthetics | Core Course | 6 | Rasa Siddhanta (Bharata''''s Natyashastra), Dhvani Siddhanta (Anandavardhana), Alankara (Figures of Speech), Riti and Guna (Poetic Styles and Qualities), Vakrokti and Auchitya, Major schools of Sanskrit Poetics |
| GE 4 | Generic Elective 4 (Student Choice from other disciplines) | Generic Elective | 6 | |
| SEC 2 | Skill Enhancement Course 2 (Student Choice, e.g., Computer Application in Sanskrit or other options) | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC 11 | Nyaya & Vaisheshika Darshana | Core Course | 6 | Tarka Sangraha (Detailed Study), Pramanas (Perception, Inference, Comparison, Testimony), Padarthas (Categories of Existence), Theory of Causation (Asatkaryavada), Epistemology of Nyaya School, Vaisheshika atomism |
| CC 12 | Samkhya & Yoga Darshana | Core Course | 6 | Samkhya Karika by Ishvarakrishna, Patanjali''''s Yoga Sutras (Selected Parts), Concepts of Prakriti and Purusha, Ashtanga Yoga (Eight Limbs of Yoga), Theory of Evolution in Samkhya, Yoga practices and their philosophical basis |
| DSE 1 | Discipline Specific Elective 1 (Student Choice, e.g., Sanskrit and Indian Culture) | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | |
| DSE 2 | Discipline Specific Elective 2 (Student Choice, e.g., Principles of Ayurveda) | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC 13 | Vedanta Darshana (Advaita & Vishishtadvaita) | Core Course | 6 | Brahma Sutras (Basic Introduction), Bhagavad Gita (Selected Chapters), Advaita Vedanta (Shankara''''s Philosophy), Vishishtadvaita Vedanta (Ramanuja''''s Philosophy), Concept of Brahman, Atman, Maya, Paths to liberation in Vedanta |
| CC 14 | Mimamsa & Other Darshanas | Core Course | 6 | Purva Mimamsa (Jaimini''''s Mimamsa Sutras), Uttara Mimamsa (Vedanta), Lokayata and Carvaka Philosophy, Basic Concepts of Jainism, Basic Concepts of Buddhism, Comparison of various philosophical schools |
| DSE 3 | Discipline Specific Elective 3 (Student Choice, e.g., Scientific Literature in Sanskrit) | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | |
| DSE 4 | Discipline Specific Elective 4 (Student Choice, e.g., Manuscriptology & Textual Criticism) | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 |




