The vast body of literature in classical Sanskrit encompasses all branches of knowledge and culture, and the Ṛig-Veda (in Vedic Sanskrit) is widely acknowledged as the oldest written record of mankind. This is a legacy felt to belong to the entire human race.
The love of Sanskrit here at the Ashram was inspired by Founder Shri Brahmananda Sarasvati himself, a recognized master of the language. In his teaching he prominently used the medium of Sanskrit, emphasizing the chanting and study of mantras, hymns and scriptural texts as well as the study of the language itself as a “science of vibration.”
Sanskrit Studies
A special feature at Ananda Ashram is the direct approach to the ancient teachings through the in-depth study of the Sanskrit language and its original texts.
Scriptural studies at Ananda Ashram focus on important texts that form the foundation of the science of Yoga and the universal, non-dualistic Vedanta philosophy. Included are the Bhagavad Gītā, the Yoga Sūtras, selected major Upanishads, works by Shankaracharya, and other classical Vedic and traditional sources. These teachings explore truths that are independent of time, place, culture, or society, and are deeply connected to universal experiences encountered in the process of meditation.
The texts and mantras come to life through chanting, word-by-word translation, reading of commentary, and discussion of their timeless relevance. The combination of a meditative approach, clarification of philosophical context, and grammatical explanation helps reveal the inner meaning of the texts, including their significance for healing and self-realization.
These scriptural sessions are scheduled most mornings beginning at 9:45 am. They are taught by Ashram teachers, open to all, and tuition is by donation.
Yoga-Vedanta Studies through Sanskrit
Instruction in the Sanskrit language is offered to resident students, guests, and the interested public. Knowledge of Sanskrit grammar as a “science of vibration” provides a genuine understanding of the language and more independent access to the meaning of the ancient scriptures. It is taught here through the unique, interactive method developed by Ashram Founder Shri Brahmananda Sarasvati. With its emphasis on chanting and rhythm, this method also functions as a meditative discipline and an energizing holistic therapy.
Classes may include chanting of the Sanskrit alphabet and word forms, reading and writing of the devanāgarī script, grammar, translation, philosophy and psychology of language, and conversational exercises. At least the first part of each session is introductory or general in nature, with no prior knowledge required. Depending on the level of participants, the second part of class may be intermediate to advanced.
Open Sanskirt Language Classes
spring 2026
Tuesdays & Saturdays 10:45am
Class length ranges from 45 to 60 minutes
Bharati Devi
Director of the school of sanskrit
By open donation / included in Ashram overnight guest rate
Tara Devi
Krishnā Devi
Beginners Level with Tara Devi
SATURDAYS
Chanting Verbs & Nouns with Krishnā Devi
TUESDAYs
Sanskrit is one of the oldest surviving members of the Indo-European family of languages, characterized by its uninterrupted continuity for at least the last six thousand years. It is not confined to any region, religion, philosophical school, race, or caste.
It has served as a vehicle for literary, cultural, spiritual, intellectual, philosophical, and scientific expressions of humankind throughout the ages. It continues to function as a medium of expression, including day-to-day conversation and modern aesthetic creations. For at least the last two centuries, it has also served as an effective medium for dialogue and cordial understanding between East and West. Sanskrit represents not merely a language, but a distinct tradition that brings humanity closer together linguistically, philosophically, culturally, and spiritually.
The Significance of Sanskrit
by Prof. Ram Karan Sharma