Calendar of Events

A truly unique opportunity for those who already have a basic knowledge of Sanskrit to expand their understanding by studying with a master teacher and scholar from India.
Presentation of the texts will include various linguistic aspects, grammar and philosophy.

Required: Acquaintance with the devanagari script and a preliminary knowledge of Sanskrit vocabulary and grammar. Beginners may attend informally.

This summer, Prof. Ram Karan Sharma will offer six courses:

Jul 18-22: Bharavi's Kiratarjuniyam, Canto 18
The epic poem Kiratarjuniyam is the only work by the illustrious poet Bharavi and is known for its depth of meaning. The very title suggests the relationship of Arjuna with Lord Shiva, who appears here in the disguise of a Kirata, a forest dweller. After an initial fight, Arjuna recognizes his opponent as Lord Shiva, begs pardon of him and offers a beautiful hymn of prayer and praise. The text features a variety of different poetic meters.

Jul 25-29: Poetry by R.K. Sharma: Sarvamsaha
The Sanskrit poetry selection Sarvamsaha saw the light of day in 2010. The word Sarvamsaha connotes the Earth who tolerates everything, desirable and undesirable, that is presented by the beings who have their abode on her. Selected poems from the work will be introduced along with grammatical and metrical explanation as well as commentary on their relevance in the face of the global pollution.

Aug 1-5: Sanskrit Metrics (Chandas)
The ancient science of Metrics represents the principle of movement of the Vedas. The course includes explanation of the difference between the matrika and varnika meters. Various classes of varnika meters along with a few selected matrika meters are defined and illustrated, and the element of metrical mathematics is introduced. Also includes chanting practice.

Aug 8-12: Sankhya Karika
Ishvara Krishna's Sankhya Karika represents the fundamental principles of the Sankhya School of Indian Philosophy. In fact, Sankhya is the foundation of the philosophy of Yoga and Vedanta.

Aug 15-19, 22-26: Panini's Ashtadhyayi, Ch. 7
(Advanced Sanskrit Grammar Course)
Panini's unexcelled model of linguistic description will be presented as found in Chapter 7 of his Ashtadhyayi. The chapter deals with morphophonemic alterations with special reference to primary and secondary derivative affixes.

Aug 29-Sep 2: Patanjali’s Mahabhashya
(Advanced Sanskrit Grammar Course)
Continuing study of the Paspashahnika section of Patanjali's Mahabhashya. This classical text is an introduction to Panini's philosophy of language and linguistic description and includes the objective or purpose for Paninian studies. The relevant material will be commented upon using apt illustrations from Vedic texts.

Note: Special discount for participants in our educational (ISEWU) courses longer than two days: 15% off Ashram overnight guest rate. Or, when contributing 1 hr of work per day: 25% reduction on guest rate.

Also inquire about availability of Work-Study arrangements.