
Division of Sanskrit and Indic Languages
The Division of Sanskrit and Indic Languages is envisioned as an interdisciplinary hub dedicated to promoting the study and research of Sanskrit and other Indic languages, and their rich literary and cultural traditions, within the context of modern linguistic and historical scholarship. Drawing from the vast textual corpora in Sanskrit, Pali, Prakrit, and other related languages (Modern day North, South, East and West Indian languages) , the center seeks to foster a deeper understanding of South Asia's intellectual heritage.
Its core objectives include:
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Exploring the linguistic structures and historical evolution of Sanskrit and related Indic languages, particularly in relation to Indo-European and other language families, by revisiting concepts in traditional Sanskrit grammar and phonetics.
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Investigating the philosophical, religious, and scientific content of Sanskrit texts, offering a nuanced understanding of Indian intellectual traditions and their relevance to contemporary thought.
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Studying the literary and artistic achievements in Sanskrit and other Indic languages, including poetry, drama, narrative, and technical treatises, in comparison with other world literary traditions.
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Developing interdisciplinary dialogues between traditional Sanskrit scholars and modern linguists, historians, and social scientists, thereby identifying and addressing critical issues in the interpretation and preservation of South Asia's cultural heritage.
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Reviving interest in the study of Sanskrit and other Indic languages through innovative teaching methods and digital resources, and aligning them with fields such as comparative literature, religious studies, and South Asian studies.
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Hosting conferences, symposia, and collaborative research to integrate Indic language studies into evolving domains like digital humanities, translation studies, and global intellectual history.
By integrating the linguistic and cultural resources of Sanskrit and other Indic languages with the analytical tools of modern scholarship, the Center aspires to address critical questions in the humanities and social sciences and contribute to a more informed and nuanced understanding of South Asia's place in the world.