

KAVYA in General at The Maharaja's Sanskrit College, Mysuru


Mysuru, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is General at The Maharaja's Sanskrit College, Mysuru Mysuru?
This Kavya program at Srimanmaharaja Samskrita Graduation and Post Graduation Center focuses on the profound study of Sanskrit poetry, drama, and literary theory. Rooted in India''''s rich intellectual tradition, it delves into the classical works of renowned poets and playwrights, examining their stylistic brilliance and philosophical depth. The program offers an unparalleled opportunity to engage with the aesthetic and linguistic nuances of ancient Indian literature, a critical aspect of Indic studies.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for students passionate about Sanskrit language and literature, particularly those with a keen interest in classical Indian poetics and literary criticism. Fresh graduates seeking entry into academic research, teaching, or cultural preservation will find it rewarding. It also attracts individuals wishing to explore India''''s textual heritage, including scholars, Indologists, and those aiming for roles in cultural institutions and manuscriptology.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect fulfilling careers as Sanskrit teachers, academic researchers, manuscript curators, or cultural heritage experts in India. They can contribute to digital humanities projects focusing on Sanskrit texts, work in publishing, or pursue higher studies in Indology. Salary ranges vary, from entry-level positions in academia starting around INR 3-5 LPA to experienced researchers earning INR 8-15 LPA in specialized government and private roles.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Sanskrit Grammar (Vyakarana)- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate significant time to thoroughly understand Panini''''s grammar (Siddhanta Kaumudi). Attend extra grammar classes, join study groups, and practice extensive sentence construction and analysis. Strong grammar is the bedrock for interpreting complex Kavya texts, ensuring a solid linguistic foundation for advanced studies.
Tools & Resources
Laghu Siddhanta Kaumudi, Sanskrit grammar online tutorials, Vyakaranam applications, Traditional gurukula-style learning resources
Career Connection
Essential for accurate text interpretation, translation, and critical analysis, which are crucial for academic research, teaching, and critical editing roles in Indology.
Immerse in Basic Kavya Texts and Poetics- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond the syllabus, read simpler Kavya works like Ritu Samharam or selections from Subhashita Ratna Bhandagaram. Develop an appreciation for poetic beauty and initial understanding of Alankaras (figures of speech) and Chhandas (meter) through guided discussions and recitation, building a foundation for literary analysis.
Tools & Resources
Amar Kosha, Online Sanskrit dictionaries, Commentaries on basic Kavyas, YouTube channels for Kavya recitation and explanation
Career Connection
Builds foundational literary appreciation and analytical skills, vital for literary criticism and academic pursuits in Sanskrit, enabling effective engagement with classical works.
Active Participation in Sanskrit Debates and Elocution- (Semester 1-2)
Engage in inter-collegiate Sanskrit debate (Vakyartha Sadas) and elocution competitions. This activity hones public speaking skills, strengthens conceptual understanding, and builds confidence in articulating complex Sanskrit ideas, fostering both linguistic and oratorical proficiency.
Tools & Resources
Departmental literary clubs, University Sanskrit associations, Online platforms for Sanskrit speech practice and virtual debates
Career Connection
Develops strong communication and presentation skills, invaluable for teaching, research presentations, and public advocacy of Sanskrit language and literature.
Intermediate Stage
Deep Dive into Major Kavya and Nataka Texts- (Semester 3-5)
Focus on intensive textual analysis of prescribed texts like Raghuvamsham and Abhijnana Shakuntalam. Utilize multiple commentaries (tika) to grasp various interpretations and nuances. Participate in group discussions to critically evaluate literary merits, fostering a comprehensive understanding of the texts.
Tools & Resources
Traditional commentaries (Mallinatha, Katayavema), Critical editions of texts, Scholarly articles on Indian literature, Online Sanskrit e-libraries
Career Connection
Develops advanced textual interpretation, literary criticism, and comparative analysis skills, crucial for M.Phil/Ph.D. research and high-level teaching positions in Sanskrit academia.
Explore Rasa, Dhvani, and Advanced Poetics (Alankara Shastra)- (Semester 3-5)
Go beyond basic definitions to understand the philosophical underpinnings of Rasa and Dhvani Siddhanta from texts like Dhvanyaloka and Kavyaprakasha. Analyze how these theories apply to Kavyas being studied, deepening comprehension of Sanskrit aesthetic philosophy and its practical application.
Tools & Resources
Key texts of Alankara Shastra with commentaries, Scholarly monographs on Indian poetics, Seminars and workshops by eminent Sanskrit scholars
Career Connection
Essential for specializing in Sanskrit literary theory, opening avenues in advanced research, academic publishing, and intellectual discourse within Indological studies.
Undertake Mini-Research Projects and Critiques- (Semester 3-5)
Identify a specific theme, character, or literary device within a Kavya text and write a short research paper or critical essay. Present findings in departmental seminars to receive feedback and refine research skills, laying the groundwork for future academic contributions.
Tools & Resources
Research databases (e.g., JSTOR, Academia.edu for Indology), Sanskrit scholarly journals, Guidance from faculty mentors and research supervisors
Career Connection
Builds foundational research aptitude, academic writing skills, and critical thinking, preparing students effectively for postgraduate research and scholarly publications.
Advanced Stage
Specialized Study in Advanced Kavya Genres and Authors- (Semester 6)
Focus on less common but significant Kavya genres (Champu Kavya, historical Kavya) and authors (Bharavi, Magha, Bana). Conduct comparative studies and delve into the historical and cultural context of these works, developing expertise in diverse literary traditions.
Tools & Resources
Advanced Sanskrit e-libraries and digital archives, Rare manuscript collections (if accessible), Specialized Indological studies and critical commentaries
Career Connection
Positions graduates for niche research roles, specialized teaching, and expert consultation in Sanskrit literary traditions, contributing to the preservation of diverse texts.
Master Research Methodology and Manuscriptology- (Semester 6)
Gain practical experience in research methodologies specific to Sanskrit, including manuscriptology, critical editing, epigraphy, and paleography. Participate in workshops on digitizing and preserving ancient texts, acquiring vital skills for cultural heritage management.
Tools & Resources
National Mission for Manuscripts workshops, University archives and libraries, Digital humanities labs for text processing, Expert guidance from conservators and archivists
Career Connection
Directly prepares students for roles as manuscript curators, archivists, research associates in cultural heritage institutions, and independent Indological scholars and conservators.
Prepare for NET/SLET and Academic Career Pathways- (Semester 6)
Systematically prepare for the National Eligibility Test (NET) or State Level Eligibility Test (SLET) for Assistant Professorship and Junior Research Fellowship. Engage in mock tests, group discussions, and review all core Kavya and Sanskrit concepts thoroughly.
Tools & Resources
Previous year NET/SLET question papers, Specialized coaching materials and online test series, Mentorship from successful scholars and faculty
Career Connection
Essential for securing academic positions (Assistant Professor) in universities and colleges across India, and for pursuing funded Ph.D. research opportunities.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Pass in 10+2 (PUC or equivalent) with Sanskrit as a subject, or Prathama/Madhyama equivalent examination passed.
Duration: 3 years / 6 semesters
Credits: Credits not specified
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| KVY101 | General Sanskrit I (Kavyashastra Parichaya) | Core | 4 | Introduction to Sanskrit literature, Definition of Kavya, Types of Kavya, Introduction to prominent Kavis, Basic literary terms |
| KVY102 | Vyakarana I (Laghu Siddhanta Kaumudi - Purvardha) | Core | 4 | Sandhi Prakarana (Rules of junction), Subanta Prakarana (Declension of nouns), Introduction to grammatical categories, Vibhakti and Vachana, Basic sentence structure |
| KVY103 | Alankara I (Kavyaprakasha - Alankara Nirupanam) | Core | 4 | Definition of Alankara, Shabdalamkaras (Figures of speech based on sound), Arthalankaras (Figures of speech based on meaning), Major Alankaras like Upama, Rupaka, Illustration and analysis of Alankaras |
| KVY104 | Compulsory Kannada I | Language | 3 | Kannada prose and poetry, Basic Kannada grammar, Reading comprehension, Essay writing in Kannada, Introduction to Kannada literature |
| KVY105 | Compulsory English I | Language | 3 | Basic English grammar, Vocabulary building, Paragraph and essay writing, Reading skills and comprehension, Introduction to communication |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| KVY201 | General Sanskrit II (Kavya Sahitya Itihasa) | Core | 4 | History of Sanskrit Kavya, Evolution of Kavya styles and schools, Prominent classical Kavis and their works, Epic and Puranic literature, Sanskrit prose and drama tradition |
| KVY202 | Vyakarana II (Laghu Siddhanta Kaumudi - Uttarardha) | Core | 4 | Tinanta Prakarana (Conjugation of verbs), Karaka Prakarana (Case relations), Krudanta and Taddhita Prakarana, Sankhya and Sarvanama, Avyaya and Upasarga |
| KVY203 | Alankara II (Kavyaprakasha - Dosha & Guna Nirupanam) | Core | 4 | Kavya Doshas (Poetic blemishes), Kavya Gunas (Poetic qualities), Ritis (Styles of composition), Relation between Rasa, Guna, and Riti, Critical appreciation of poetic principles |
| KVY204 | Compulsory Kannada II | Language | 3 | Classical Kannada literature, Modern Kannada literary forms, Folk literature of Karnataka, Cultural context of Kannada writing, Advanced comprehension and composition |
| KVY205 | Compulsory English II | Language | 3 | Literary appreciation, Creative writing, Advanced communication skills, Introduction to literary forms, Critical thinking and analysis |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| KVY301 | Kavya Patha I (Kalidasa''''s Raghuvamsham - Sarga 1-5) | Core | 4 | Textual study of Raghuvamsham, Kalidasa''''s poetic style, Historical and cultural context, Commentaries and interpretations, Character analysis of Dilipa, Sudakshina |
| KVY302 | Natya Shastra I (Kalidasa''''s Abhijnana Shakuntalam - Act 1-4) | Core | 4 | Textual study of Abhijnana Shakuntalam, Elements of Sanskrit drama (Natyashastra), Character analysis of Dushyanta, Shakuntala, Dramatic structure and plot development, Rasa and Bhava in drama |
| KVY303 | Chandas and Vrittas | Core | 4 | Introduction to Chandas (Prosody), Common Sanskrit meters (Anushtup, Arya, Indravajra), Vrittas and their characteristics, Application of prosody in Kavya, Metrical analysis of classical verses |
| KVY304 | Darshana I (Nyaya/Mimamsa Parichaya) | Allied | 3 | Basic tenets of Nyaya Darsana, Theory of Pramanas (sources of knowledge), Introduction to Mimamsa Darsana, Concept of Dharma, Comparison of philosophical schools |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| KVY401 | Kavya Patha II (Kalidasa''''s Raghuvamsham - Sarga 6-10) | Core | 4 | Continued textual study of Raghuvamsham, Critical analysis of poetic imagery, Portrayal of kings and queens, Themes of dharma and governance, Comparative study with other epics |
| KVY402 | Natya Shastra II (Kalidasa''''s Abhijnana Shakuntalam - Act 5-7) | Core | 4 | Continued textual study of Abhijnana Shakuntalam, Climax and resolution in drama, Dramatic conventions and techniques, Psychological analysis of characters, Impact and legacy of the play |
| KVY403 | Poetics (Rasa Siddhanta) | Core | 4 | Definition of Rasa (Aesthetic experience), Bhavas (Emotions), Vibhavas (Determinants), Anubhavas (Consequents), Sancharibhavas (Transient states), Dhvani Siddhanta (Theory of suggestion), Application of Rasa theory to Kavya |
| KVY404 | Darshana II (Vedanta Parichaya) | Allied | 3 | Basic tenets of Advaita Vedanta, Concepts of Brahman, Atman, Maya, Paths to liberation (Jnana, Karma, Bhakti), Introduction to other Vedanta schools, Relevance of Vedanta in contemporary thought |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| KVY501 | Advanced Kavya I (Bharavi''''s Kiratarjuniyam - Sarga 1-5) | Core | 4 | Textual study of Kiratarjuniyam, Bharavi''''s style and ''''Arthagaura'''', Grammatical intricacies in Mahakavyas, Political and ethical themes, Critical appreciation of epic poetry |
| KVY502 | Prose Kavya (Banabhatta''''s Kadambari - Purvabhaga) | Core | 4 | Textual study of Kadambari, Banabhatta''''s elaborate prose style, Narrative techniques in Sanskrit prose, Themes of love, destiny, and rebirth, Character portrayal and descriptive passages |
| KVY503 | Literary Criticism (Rajasekhara''''s Kavyamimamsa) | Core | 4 | Study of Kavyamimamsa as a text, Duties and qualities of a poet (Kavishiksha), Classification of poets and poetic creation, Geographical influences on Kavya, Traditions of literary criticism in Sanskrit |
| KVY504 | Cultural History of India | Allied | 3 | Ancient Indian history (Maurya to Gupta period), Social and economic life in ancient India, Religious movements and philosophies, Art, architecture, and scientific achievements, Influence of Sanskrit on Indian culture |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| KVY601 | Advanced Kavya II (Magha''''s Shishupalavadham - Sarga 1-5) | Core | 4 | Textual study of Shishupalavadham, Magha''''s ''''Tri-guna'''' (three qualities), Advanced poetics and intricate grammar, Warfare and diplomacy in epic context, Comparison with Bharavi''''s style |
| KVY602 | Champu Kavya (Yashastilaka Champu or similar) | Core | 4 | Study of Champu Kavya genre (mix of prose and poetry), Textual analysis of a representative Champu work, Blend of poetic and narrative styles, Themes and literary devices in Champu works, Historical development of Champu literature |
| KVY603 | Research Methodology in Sanskrit | Core | 4 | Introduction to research in Sanskrit studies, Manuscriptology and critical editing, Bibliography and documentation, Academic writing and citation styles, Ethical considerations in research |
| KVY604 | Project Work/Dissertation | Project | 5 | Independent study on a chosen Kavya topic, Literature review and data collection, Analysis and interpretation of primary texts, Thesis writing and presentation skills, Contribution to Sanskrit scholarship |




