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 19-23: Raghuvamsham, Canto 3
The Raghuvamsham is a major epic poem by the famous classical poet Kalidasa. The 3rd canto represents the excellence of his aesthetic creation. The story: Thanks to the blessings of the cow Nandini, the royal couple Sudakshina and Dilipa is blessed with a son — Raghu — who is the principal hero of the epic. This canto depicts a model of parental affection and fearless filial devotion.

Jul 26-30: Poetry by R.K. Sharma: Shemushi
The Sanskrit poetry selection Shemushi saw the light of day in 2009. The word Shemushi connotes “discriminating wisdom.” Selected passages from the work will be introduced with grammatical and metrical explanation and commentary.

Aug 2-6: Sanskrit Metrics (Chandah)
An explanation of the difference between the Matrika and Varnika meters (poetic rhythms). The various classes of Varnika meters along with a few selected Matrika meters will be defined and illustrated, and the element of metrical mathematics will be introduced. Also includes chanting practice.

Aug 9-13: Saundarya Lahari, Verses 34-55
Explanation and chanting of the inspiring verses of the Saundarya Lahari, depicting the beauty of the various aspects of the body of the Supreme Mother Goddess. The relation to the chakras (energy centers) in the human body is also explored.

Aug 16-20, 23-27: Panini's Ashtadhyayi, Ch. 6
(Advanced Sanskrit Grammar Course)
Panini's unexcelled model of linguistic description will be presented as found in Chapter 6 of his Ashtadhyayi, with special reference to morphophonemic alterations, that is, external and internal sandhis.

Aug 30-Sep 3: Introduction to Mahabhashya
(Advanced Sanskrit Grammar Course)
The Paspashahnika of Patanjali's Mahabhashya is an introduction to Panini's philosophy of language and linguistic description, including 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: 15% off Ashram overnight guest rate.
Or, when contributing 1 hr of work per day: 25% reduction on guest rate.
Inquire about availability of Work-Study arrangements and Sanskrit scholarships.