Sanskrit Makes a Comeback in U.S.?

The curriculum for this 3 year program which includes six semesters and three direct contact programs, or residential camps has been set by Sowmya Joisa, a teacher in the program. Beside her, Vrunda Thakrar, and some university level Sanskrit professors teaches in this program.

The increasing impact of this program is clearly visible from the rise in the number of students. From 2009 to 2010 this program had only 17 students from seven different states and by the next year the number increased to 30 students from 11 different states. Presently there are 48 students from 13 states and by 2013 the number is expected to reach minimum of 75. In 2011 the first group of 8 students completed this three year course.

“While some refer to Samskritam as a ‘dead language,’ learning Samskritam has proven to be one of the most challenging and rewarding endeavors. It has taken me on a journey of self-discovery and helped me identify with my Indian roots,” said Swathi Krishnan, a freshman at the University of Chicago.  She completed the SAFL program at Rye Country Day School in New York. Last summer she could attend a two week immersion camp in Bangalore. For Swathi, this experience was “one of the most intellectually stimulating” one, as WSJ reported.

Nandita Kumar, a senior at Westview High School in Portland also expressed her opinion “I am an American of Indian origin, and I don’t want to lose that Indian part of me. Learning Samskritam directly lets me understand my culture and religion in the language it was written: it keeps me grounded.”

Sanskrit has a prominent place in Indo-European studies. This ancient language is on its revival with the new trends. Sanskrit studies lead many who learn this language to their roots, culture and rich tradition.