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M-A in Sanskrit at University of Delhi
Delhi, Delhi
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About the Specialization
What is Sanskrit at University of Delhi Delhi?
This Sanskrit program at University of Delhi focuses on a comprehensive and in-depth study of classical Indian knowledge systems through the lens of Sanskrit language and literature. It delves into Vedic studies, philosophy, grammar, poetics, epigraphy, and linguistics. India''''s rich cultural heritage and its increasing global soft power make expertise in Sanskrit highly relevant for research, academic, and cultural preservation roles. This program stands out for its rigorous textual analysis and broad philosophical scope.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for humanities graduates with a keen interest in classical Indian languages and philosophy, fresh graduates seeking entry into academic research or teaching, and cultural enthusiasts looking to deepen their understanding of India''''s intellectual traditions. It also serves professionals in cultural heritage management, archives, and libraries, or career changers transitioning into areas like Indology, journalism, or content creation focused on Indian knowledge.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including university professorships, research roles in institutions like IGNCA or various Indological foundations, content development for cultural media, and positions in archives or museums. Entry-level salaries might range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience in academia or specialized research. The program also prepares for NET/JRF examinations, a crucial step for higher education careers.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Foundational Texts and Grammar- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate significant time to thoroughly understand the core grammatical principles of Panini and the selected introductory Sanskrit texts. Consistent practice with Sandhi, Samāsa, and verb conjugations is crucial. Join informal study groups to clarify doubts and practice translations regularly.
Tools & Resources
Ashtadhyayi, Laghusiddhantakaumudi, Online Sanskrit dictionaries (Spokensanskrit.org), Departmental study groups
Career Connection
Strong foundational grammar is indispensable for advanced research and teaching, directly impacting success in NET/JRF exams and academic roles.
Engage with Departmental Seminars and Lectures- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in seminars, workshops, and special lectures organized by the Department of Sanskrit. This exposes students to diverse research methodologies, current scholarly debates, and insights from experienced faculty and guest speakers, broadening their academic perspective.
Tools & Resources
Departmental notice boards, University events calendar, Faculty interaction sessions
Career Connection
Develops critical thinking, presentation skills, and networking opportunities vital for academic careers and research positions.
Cultivate Regular Reading and Note-Taking Habits- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond prescribed texts, cultivate a habit of reading related articles, literary criticism, and philosophical commentaries. Develop a structured note-taking system to summarize complex ideas and arguments, which aids in retention and prepares for comprehensive examinations.
Tools & Resources
University Library resources, JSTOR, Project MUSE (through university access), Digital note-taking apps (Evernote, OneNote)
Career Connection
Enhances analytical skills, research aptitude, and the ability to articulate complex concepts, essential for academic writing and scholarly contributions.
Intermediate Stage
Explore Elective Specializations Strategically- (Semester 3)
Carefully choose Discipline Specific Electives (DSEs) in Semesters 3 and 4 based on long-term career interests. Whether it''''s Advaita Vedanta, Dharmaśāstra, or Linguistics, specialize in areas that align with potential research topics or academic career paths. Consult with faculty for guidance on DSE choices.
Tools & Resources
Syllabus document for DSE options, Faculty advisors, Alumni network for career insights
Career Connection
Focuses academic trajectory, makes students competitive for specific research grants or Ph.D. programs, and builds expertise for niche job roles.
Undertake Mini-Research Projects/Term Papers- (Semester 3)
Proactively engage in writing detailed term papers or small research projects beyond course requirements. This practice helps in developing independent research skills, understanding literature review processes, and refining academic writing, which is crucial for dissertation work and future publications.
Tools & Resources
Research databases (Shodhganga), Academic writing guides, Faculty mentorship
Career Connection
Builds a strong portfolio for Ph.D. applications, cultivates research publication potential, and prepares for academic roles.
Participate in Inter-University Competitions/Conferences- (Semester 3)
Seek opportunities to present papers or participate in Sanskrit recitation, debate, or essay competitions at inter-university or national levels. This builds confidence, enhances communication skills, and provides exposure to broader academic communities in India.
Tools & Resources
University cultural societies, Notices from other universities, Sanskrit Bharti events
Career Connection
Develops public speaking and networking skills, boosts academic profile, and opens doors to collaborative research projects.
Advanced Stage
Prepare for NET/JRF and Ph.D. Entrance Exams- (Semester 4)
Start rigorous preparation for the UGC NET/JRF examination, which is essential for teaching and research positions in Indian universities. Focus on solving previous year papers, reviewing the entire MA syllabus comprehensively, and attending coaching or mock tests if available.
Tools & Resources
UGC NET official website, Previous year question papers, Online test series (NTA NET platforms)
Career Connection
Directly impacts eligibility for Assistant Professor roles and provides research fellowships for Ph.D. studies across India.
Develop Digital Humanities Skills for Sanskrit- (Semester 4)
Learn to use digital tools for Sanskrit studies, such as online text editors, digital archives, and basic data management. Familiarity with technologies for manuscript digitization, text encoding, and creating online lexicons is becoming increasingly valuable in modern Indology.
Tools & Resources
Indology research portals, TEI (Text Encoding Initiative) guidelines, Basic programming/scripting for text analysis
Career Connection
Opens opportunities in digital archiving, cultural tech companies, and advanced research projects requiring computational linguistics skills.
Network with Scholars and Practitioners- (Semester 4)
Actively network with Sanskrit scholars, professors, and practitioners through conferences, workshops, and online academic platforms. Building relationships with established academics can lead to mentorship, collaborative opportunities, and informed career guidance in the specialized field of Sanskrit studies.
Tools & Resources
Academic conferences (online and offline), LinkedIn for academics, Departmental alumni events
Career Connection
Crucial for securing recommendations, identifying Ph.D. supervisors, and gaining insights into diverse career paths within academia and cultural institutions.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.A. (Hons.) Sanskrit from University of Delhi or an equivalent examination; B.A. (Pass/Programme) with Sanskrit from University of Delhi or equivalent; B.A./B.Com./B.Sc. or equivalent with at least 40% marks in aggregate and having studied Sanskrit for two years; Acharya/M.A. in any subject from a recognized University.
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 80 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SKT-C101 | History of Sanskrit Literature (Epic, Puranas, Kāvya) | Core | 4 | Vedic Literature, Epics (Ramayana, Mahabharata), Puranas, Classical Sanskrit Poetry, Historical Kavyas, Dramas |
| SKT-C102 | Critical Study of Selected Texts (Veda, Upaniṣad, Purāṇa, Sūtra) | Core | 4 | Vedic Hymns (Ṛgveda), Upanishads (Īśopaniṣad), Purāṇas (Bhāgavatapurāṇa), Vedānta Sūtra, Mīmāṁsā Sūtra, Dharma Sūtra |
| SKT-C103 | Pāṇini''''s Aṣṭādhyāyī, Laghusiddhāntakaumudī & Mahābhāṣya | Core | 4 | Aṣṭādhyāyī (Pāṇini), Laghusiddhāntakaumudī, Mahābhāṣya (Patañjali), Sandhi and Samāsa, Kāraka System, Taddhita |
| SKT-C104 | Sanskrit Poetics (Kāvyaśāstra) | Core | 4 | Alamkara Shastra, Rasa Theory (Dhvanyaloka), Dhvani Theory, Aucitya and Vakrokti, Kāvya Prakāśa, Literary Concepts |
| SKT-C105 | Sanskrit Grammar (Vedic & Classical) | Core | 4 | Vedic Grammar Fundamentals, Classical Sanskrit Grammar, Verb Forms (Tiṅanta), Noun Forms (Subanta), Pronouns and Participles, Accentuation in Vedic Sanskrit |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SKT-C201 | History of Sanskrit Literature (Drama, Prose, Campū, Science Literature) | Core | 4 | Sanskrit Drama (Bhasa, Kalidasa, Bhavabhuti), Sanskrit Prose (Banabhatta), Campu Literature, Scientific Literature (Astronomy, Medicine), Philosophical and Technical Literature, Folk and Buddhist Sanskrit |
| SKT-C202 | Critical Study of Selected Texts (Drama, Prose, Kāvya) | Core | 4 | Abhijñānaśākuntalam (Kālidāsa), Mṛcchakaṭika (Śūdraka), Kādambarī (Bāṇabhaṭṭa), Uttararāmacaritam (Bhavabhūti), Kirātārjunīyam (Bhāravi), Selected Hymns and Prose Passages |
| SKT-C203 | Sāṃkhya-Yoga Philosophy | Core | 4 | Sāṃkhya Kārikā (Īśvarakṛṣṇa), Sāṃkhya Tattvas, Yoga Sūtras (Patañjali), Eight Limbs of Yoga, Cittavṛtti Nirodha, Concept of Puruṣa and Prakṛti |
| SKT-C204 | Literary Criticism and Linguistics | Core | 4 | Indian Literary Criticism, Western Literary Theories, Language Families (Indo-Aryan), Phonetics and Phonology, Morphology and Semantics, History of Sanskrit Linguistics |
| SKT-C205 | Indian Epigraphy & Palaeography | Core | 4 | Origin of Writing in India, Brāhmī and Kharoṣṭī Scripts, Major Inscriptions (Ashokan Edicts), Palaeographical Study of Sanskrit Manuscripts, Numismatics and Archeological Sources, Dating and Decipherment Methods |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SKT-C301 | History of Indian Philosophy (Classical Schools) | Core | 4 | Vedic and Upaniṣadic Thought, Sāṃkhya and Yoga Systems, Nyāya and Vaiśeṣika Schools, Mīmāṁsā and Vedānta Philosophy, Heterodox Systems (Buddhism, Jainism), Concept of Pramāṇas and Epistemology |
| SKT-C302 | History of Sanskrit Grammar and Linguistics | Core | 4 | Pāṇini, Katyayana, Patanjali Contributions, Bhartrhari''''s Philosophy of Language, Schools of Sanskrit Grammar, Traditional Linguistic Theories, Modern Linguistics and Sanskrit, Etymology, Phonology, Morphology |
| SKT-C303 | Research Methodology & Manuscriptology | Core | 4 | Research Ethics and Design, Data Collection and Analysis Methods, Academic Writing and Citation, Manuscript Preservation and Cataloguing, Editing and Critical Edition of Texts, Digital Humanities in Sanskrit Studies |
| SKT-DSE-A301 | Vedānta Philosophy (Advaita Vedānta) | Elective (DSE-A) | 4 | Brahma Sūtras and Śaṃkara Bhāṣya, Concept of Māyā and Jīva, Nature of Brahman and Ātman, Paths to Mokṣa (Liberation), Adhyāsa (Superimposition) Theory, Key Texts of Advaita Vedanta |
| SKT-DSE-A302 | Vedānta Philosophy (Viśiṣṭādvaita & Dvaita Vedānta) | Elective (DSE-A) | 4 | Rāmānuja''''s Viśiṣṭādvaita Philosophy, Madhvācārya''''s Dvaita Philosophy, Concept of Bhakti Mārga, Relationship between Jīva and Brahman, Prapatti and Grace, Distinction of Souls |
| SKT-DSE-B301 | Dharmaśāstra | Elective (DSE-B) | 4 | Manusmṛti and Yājñavalkyasmṛti, Concept of Dharma and its Sources, Varṇāśrama Dharma, Legal and Social Institutions, Duties of Kings and Citizens, Puruṣārthas (Goals of Human Life) |
| SKT-DSE-B302 | Arthaśāstra | Elective (DSE-B) | 4 | Kauṭilya''''s Arthaśāstra, Statecraft and Administration, Diplomacy and Foreign Policy, Economics and Taxation, War Strategies and Espionage, Role of the King and Ministers |
| SKT-DSE-C301 | Nyāya Philosophy | Elective (DSE-C) | 4 | Nyāya Sūtras of Gautama, Pramāṇas (Perception, Inference, Comparison, Testimony), Concept of Logic and Argumentation, Fallacies in Inference, Tarka Saṃgraha (Annam Bhaṭṭa), Epistemology of Nyāya |
| SKT-DSE-C302 | Vaiśeṣika Philosophy | Elective (DSE-C) | 4 | Vaiśeṣika Sūtras of Kaṇāda, Padārthas (Categories of Reality), Dravya (Substance), Guṇa (Quality), Karma (Action), Sāmānya (Generality), Viśeṣa (Particularity), Samavāya (Inherence), Atomic Theory, Concept of Causation |
| SKT-DSE-D301 | Vyākaraṇa (Advanced) | Elective (DSE-D) | 4 | Vārttikas and Siddhānta Kaumudī, Advanced Pāṇinian System, Sphoṭa Theory (Bhartrhari), Mahābhāṣya Interpretations, Semantic and Syntactic Theories, Grammatical Debates |
| SKT-DSE-D302 | Historical & Comparative Linguistics | Elective (DSE-D) | 4 | Indo-European Family of Languages, Grimm''''s Law and Verner''''s Law, Historical Development of Sanskrit, Comparative Philology Principles, Sound Changes and Reconstructions, Dravidian and other Indian Language Families |
| SKT-DSE-E301 | Sanskrit Folk Literature | Elective (DSE-E) | 4 | Pañcatantra and Hitopadeśa, Kathāsaritsāgara (Somadeva), Fables and Animal Stories, Indian Storytelling Traditions, Puppetry and Folk Dramas, Oral Traditions and their Significance |
| SKT-DSE-E302 | Modern Sanskrit Literature | Elective (DSE-E) | 4 | Contemporary Sanskrit Writers, Modern Trends in Sanskrit Poetry, Innovations in Sanskrit Drama, Sanskrit Journalism and Prose, Impact of Western Literature on Modern Sanskrit, Biographical and Autobiographical Works |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SKT-C401 | Veda (Hymns, Brāhmaṇas, Āraṇyakas) | Core | 4 | Ṛgveda, Yajurveda, Sāmaveda, Atharvaveda, Brāhmaṇa Texts and Rituals, Āraṇyakas and their Significance, Vedic Sacrifices and Philosophy, Selected Hymns and Interpretations, Vedic Cosmology |
| SKT-C402 | Critical Study of Selected Philosophical Texts | Core | 4 | Bhagavadgītā and its Philosophy, Yoga Vāsiṣṭha, Upaniṣadic Philosophical Concepts, Nyāya-Vaiśeṣika Texts (e.g., Tarkasaṃgraha), Mīmāṃsā Philosophy (Śabda Pramāṇa), Critique of Philosophical Systems |
| SKT-C403 | Literary Criticism (Western & Eastern) | Core | 4 | Plato, Aristotle, Longinus, Coleridge, T.S. Eliot, I.A. Richards, Bhāmaha, Daṇḍin, Vāmana, Ānandavardhana, Kuntaka, Jagannātha, Theories of Rasa, Dhvani, Aucitya, Comparative Study of Literary Theories |
| SKT-DSE-A401 | Vedānta Philosophy (Advaita Vedānta) | Elective (DSE-A) | 4 | Brahma Sūtras and Śaṃkara Bhāṣya, Concept of Māyā and Jīva, Nature of Brahman and Ātman, Paths to Mokṣa (Liberation), Adhyāsa (Superimposition) Theory, Key Texts of Advaita Vedanta |
| SKT-DSE-A402 | Vedānta Philosophy (Viśiṣṭādvaita & Dvaita Vedānta) | Elective (DSE-A) | 4 | Rāmānuja''''s Viśiṣṭādvaita Philosophy, Madhvācārya''''s Dvaita Philosophy, Concept of Bhakti Mārga, Relationship between Jīva and Brahman, Prapatti and Grace, Distinction of Souls |
| SKT-DSE-B401 | Dharmaśāstra | Elective (DSE-B) | 4 | Manusmṛti and Yājñavalkyasmṛti, Concept of Dharma and its Sources, Varṇāśrama Dharma, Legal and Social Institutions, Duties of Kings and Citizens, Puruṣārthas (Goals of Human Life) |
| SKT-DSE-B402 | Arthaśāstra | Elective (DSE-B) | 4 | Kauṭilya''''s Arthaśāstra, Statecraft and Administration, Diplomacy and Foreign Policy, Economics and Taxation, War Strategies and Espionage, Role of the King and Ministers |
| SKT-DSE-C401 | Nyāya Philosophy | Elective (DSE-C) | 4 | Nyāya Sūtras of Gautama, Pramāṇas (Perception, Inference, Comparison, Testimony), Concept of Logic and Argumentation, Fallacies in Inference, Tarka Saṃgraha (Annam Bhaṭṭa), Epistemology of Nyāya |
| SKT-DSE-C402 | Vaiśeṣika Philosophy | Elective (DSE-C) | 4 | Vaiśeṣika Sūtras of Kaṇāda, Padārthas (Categories of Reality), Dravya (Substance), Guṇa (Quality), Karma (Action), Sāmānya (Generality), Viśeṣa (Particularity), Samavāya (Inherence), Atomic Theory, Concept of Causation |
| SKT-DSE-D401 | Vyākaraṇa (Advanced) | Elective (DSE-D) | 4 | Vārttikas and Siddhānta Kaumudī, Advanced Pāṇinian System, Sphoṭa Theory (Bhartrhari), Mahābhāṣya Interpretations, Semantic and Syntactic Theories, Grammatical Debates |
| SKT-DSE-D402 | Historical & Comparative Linguistics | Elective (DSE-D) | 4 | Indo-European Family of Languages, Grimm''''s Law and Verner''''s Law, Historical Development of Sanskrit, Comparative Philology Principles, Sound Changes and Reconstructions, Dravidian and other Indian Language Families |
| SKT-DSE-E401 | Sanskrit Folk Literature | Elective (DSE-E) | 4 | Pañcatantra and Hitopadeśa, Kathāsaritsāgara (Somadeva), Fables and Animal Stories, Indian Storytelling Traditions, Puppetry and Folk Dramas, Oral Traditions and their Significance |
| SKT-DSE-E402 | Modern Sanskrit Literature | Elective (DSE-E) | 4 | Contemporary Sanskrit Writers, Modern Trends in Sanskrit Poetry, Innovations in Sanskrit Drama, Sanskrit Journalism and Prose, Impact of Western Literature on Modern Sanskrit, Biographical and Autobiographical Works |
