Sanskrit/Introduction

Sanskrit is an ancient language of the Indo-European family, from which is descended many languages found in northern India. The language is also known as 'devabhāṣā' (language of the gods) or 'devavaani' (voice of the gods). Since the 10th century CE, Sanskrit has been primarily written in the Devanaagari script, but it is common for the language to be printed or written in Indian vernacular scripts. The word Sanskrit is derived from the word 'saṃskṛtá' meaning "polished" or "perfectly done". The earliest form of Sanskrit is known as Vedic Sanskrit and was spoken by the people of India in the second millennium BCE. Classical Sanskrit, mostly associated with religion, philosophy, and literature, emerged later in the 5th century BCE after PaaNini's extensive grammar codified the language.

Sanskrit has a rich literary tradition whose most famous poets and playwrights include is Kaalidaasa, mostly known for his compositions Meghadutam, Kumaarasambhavam, Abhijnaanasakuntalam, and Raghuvamsam. The Vedas are written in the Sanskrit language and are the roots of Vedic culture. They are considered to be a collection of great knowledge and spiritual puissance. Samskrita Bharati, an NGO, has taken the initiative to popularize the Sanskrit language.