Parvathi Sriram - Sanskrit & Vedanta Faculty at HUA

Courses Taught By Smt. Parvathi Sriram

Explore our comprehensive curriculum designed to deepen your understanding of ancient texts, languages, and philosophies.

Laghu Siddhanta Kaumudi – Beginner 1

SAN3011 – Laghu-Siddhānta-Kaumudī –Beginner 1 introduces students to the formal and methodical study of Sanskrit grammar through Varadarāja’s Laghu-Siddhānta-Kaumudī, using the edition and translation by Medha Michika. This course lays the foundation for navigating the grammatical framework of Pāṇini by developing a clear understanding of essential terminology, conceptual structures, and the metarules that shape his grammatical system. Special emphasis is placed on the principles governing vowel combinations (ac-sandhi) and their application in real textual contexts. By the end of the course, students will be able to recognize, analyze, and accurately interpret vowel sandhi in Sanskrit prose and verse, including passages from texts such as the Bhagavad Gītā, Rāmāyaṇa, Mahābhārata, and various stotras, thereby preparing them for deeper study of Pāṇinian grammar in subsequent courses.

Laghu Siddhanta Kaumudi – Beginner 2

SAN3012 – Laghu-Siddhānta-Kaumudī – Beginner 2 introduces students to the principles and applications of sandhi (of which vowel sandhi was covered in the previous course) as presented in the Laghu Siddhānta Kaumudī, using the edition and translation by Medha Michika. Specifically, consonantal sandhi, visarga transformations, and anusvāra-related changes, with systematic reference to Pāṇinian sūtras are covered here. By the end of the course, students will be able to recognize, analyze, and accurately interpret non-vowel sandhi in Sanskrit prose and verse, including passages from Sanskrit texts and various stotras, thereby preparing them for deeper study of Pāṇinian grammar in subsequent courses.

Laghu Siddhanta Kaumudi – Beginner 3

SAN3013 - Laghu-Siddhānta-Kaumudī – Beginner 03 provides a thorough study of the key aspects of Sanskrit grammar as presented in the Laghu Siddhānta Kaumudī. It covers the Kāraka Prakaraṇam and Vibhakti Prakaraṇam in full, followed by a focused study of the Ajanta Puṃlinga Prakaraṇam for akārānta (अकारान्त) masculine nouns. Students will explore the semantic roles of verbs, the correct application of case endings to nouns, pronouns, and adjectives, and the formation and modification of masculine noun stems. Emphasis is placed on understanding grammatical patterns and their practical application in reading, parsing, and composing Sanskrit sentences.

Laghu Siddhanta Kaumudi – Beginner 4

SAN3014 - Laghu-Siddhānta-Kaumudī – Beginner 04 focuses on the continuation of the Ajanta Puṃlinga Prakaraṇam, dealing with vowel-ending stems in Sanskrit nouns across all three genders—masculine, feminine, and neuter. This includes all vowel ending stems like ikārānta, ukārānta, ṛkārānta stems excluding akārānta masculine stems which were covered in the previous quarter. Students study the formation, modification, and declension patterns of these vowel ending stems, including vowel adjustments, suffix application, and phonological modifications. Emphasis is placed on understanding the systematic patterns of noun formation, the interaction of stems with case endings, and the accurate use of these nouns in Sanskrit sentences and in Sanskrit texts.

Introducing the Sounds and Script of Sanskrit – II

LAN0102 – This course is the second part of Devanagari – Introducing the Sounds and Script of Sanskrit course that offers a comprehensive introduction to Devanāgarī, the script of Saṃskṛtam, focusing on both its written form and phonetic structure. Students will learn the Sanskrit alphabet, including vowels, consonants, compound letters, and conjuncts. Emphasis is placed on phonics and correct pronunciation, guided by an understanding of the phonetic principles underlying the script’s evolution. By the end of the course, students will be well-prepared to begin formal Saṃskṛtam studies. This foundational knowledge paves the way for deeper engagement with the wisdom, worldview, and spiritual heritage of Hindu civilization through other Sanskrit programs offered at HUA.

Introducing the Sounds and Script of Sanskrit – I

LAN0101 – Devanagari – Introducing the Sounds and Script of Sanskrit is a two-part course that offers a comprehensive introduction to Devanāgarī, the script of Saṃskṛtam, focusing on both its written form and phonetic structure. Students will learn the Sanskrit alphabet, including vowels, consonants, compound letters, and conjuncts. Emphasis is placed on phonics and correct pronunciation, guided by an understanding of the phonetic principles underlying the script’s evolution. By the end of the course, students will be well-prepared to begin formal Saṃskṛtam studies at HUA.

Sanskrit Proficiency – IV

SAN0404 - (SPVS – Required Course) In the fourth and final quarter of the Proficiency Phase of the Certificate in Sanskrit Proficiency for Vedic Studies (SAN0404), students will delve deeper into the study of the samāsas and explore the exceptions and special characteristics of each samāsa that sets it apart from the others. Additionally, students will collaborate to create and perform Saṃskṛtam skits during the course. They will also engage in debates in Saṃskṛtam on various topics provided. By the end of this phase, students will be fully equipped with a solid understanding of Saṃskṛtam grammar and will be able to comprehend and communicate effectively in Saṃskṛtam. This is the final course in the program, and upon its completion, students will have achieved proficiency in Saṃskṛtam.

Sanskrit Proficiency – III

SAN0403 - (SPVS - Required Course) In the third quarter of the Proficiency Phase of the Certificate in Sanskrit Proficiency for Vedic Studies (SAN0403), the students will learn the samāsas (compounds). They will explore the vigrahavākyas (the expounding of a samāsas) which are the expression of the relations existing between the objects/ideas denoted by the various parts of a samāsa through subordinate sentences. Students will examine the characteristics of the four principal classes of compounds and the general rules that are applicable to them. By the end of the course, the students will be able to identify and classify the samāsas in Saṃskṛtam texts and verses.

Sanskrit Proficiency – I

SAN0401 - (SPVS - Required Course) In the first quarter of the Proficiency Phase of the Certificate in Sanskrit Proficiency for Vedic Studies (SAN0401), students will embark on the final phase of the program. This phase is dedicated to the study of sandhis (coalescence of two letters coming in immediate contact with each other), which play a crucial role in the analysis and interpretation of Saṃskṛtam texts and verses. Students will learn the rules of svara (vowels) sandhis by actively practicing combining, splitting, and correctly identifying sandhis in verses. By the end of the quarter, students will have a comprehensive understanding of the svara sandhis.

Advanced Sanskrit – IV

SAN0304 - (SPVS - Required Course) In the fourth quarter of the Advanced Phase of the Certificate in Sanskrit Proficiency for Vedic Studies (SAN0304), students will critically evaluate the use of idioms and proverbs in enriching the Saṃskṛtam language. They will delve deeper into their grammar studies, exploring the usage of cit-cana pratyayāḥ (indefinite pronouns) and śatṛ pratyayāḥ (suffixes added to verbs to create present participle) in all three genders and seven declensions. Additionally, they will learn the past tense and past participle forms of verb roots after prefixes are added to them. The quarter will culminate with students showcasing their ability to compose essays.

Advanced Sanskrit – III

SAN0303 - (SPVS - Required Course) In the third quarter of the Advanced Phase of the Certificate in Sanskrit Proficiency for Vedic Studies, students will delve into laukika nyāyāḥ (maxims and analogies), exploring them through engaging short stories. They will acquire a deeper understanding of these concepts while also studying the cardinal and ordinal numbers in all three genders and their declensions. In addition, they will be introduced to the 22 prefixes to verbs and how these prefixes impact the meanings of the verbs. Furthermore, students will hone their skills in composing formal invitations, building upon their previous practice of patralekhanam (letter writing). This quarter is dedicated to applying the knowledge gained thus far in practical ways.

Advanced Sanskrit – II

SAN0302 - (SPVS - Required Course) In the second quarter of the Advanced Phase of the Certificate in Sanskrit Proficiency for Vedic Studies, students will have the opportunity to explore the biographies of renowned Saṃskṛtam poets such as Kālidāsa and Bāṇa. They practice the usage of past tense and mood denoting verb forms in active, passive and impersonal voices. Additionally, they will develop the ability to identify the appropriate contexts in which these verb forms are applied. Furthermore, students will be instructed in the essential guidelines of patralekhanam (letter writing). They employ the anvaya kramaḥ methods to analyze ślokas in detail and in the process gain a more profound understanding of Saṃskṛtam verses.

Advanced Sanskrit – I

SAN0301 – (SPVS – Required Course) In the first quarter of the Advanced Phase of the Certificate in Sanskrit Proficiency for Vedic Studies (SAN0301), students will engage in the analysis of various verses and texts, gaining the ability to categorize words in a grammatical manner. They will also be introduced to the use of passive and impersonal voices, which are conventions in the Saṃskṛtam language. Additionally, students will begin to compose simple stories in Saṃskṛtam, utilizing a given set of vocabulary words. Furthermore, students will learn about a unique form of verb roots known as ātmanepadi-roots. Lastly, they will be introduced to the different types of sandhis, which are the phonetic changes that occur when combining words in Saṃskṛtam.

Intermediate Sanskrit – IV

SAN0204 - (SPVS - Required Course) In this last fourth quarter of the Intermediate Phase of the Certificate in Sanskrit Proficiency for Vedic Studies , students delve into the captivating world of Pañcatantra Kathāḥ, analyzing and interpreting these ancient tales in Saṃskṛtam. By utilizing the selected text as a foundation, students are able to explore the nuances of the language and further enhance their language skills. Through the interactive nature of the course, students not only develop their ability to analyze and interpret texts, but they also sharpen their communication skills, enabling them to effectively converse in Saṃskṛtam with their cohorts. By the end of this course, students will have gained a deep appreciation for the Pañcatantrakathāḥ, and will have honed their language skills in Saṃskṛtam. Completion of this course marks the conclusion of the Intermediate Phase in the Certificate Program in Saṃskṛtam Proficiency, allowing students to progress to the Advanced Phase.

Intermediate Sanskrit – III

SAN0203 - (SPVS - Required Course) The third quarter of the Intermediate Phase of the Certificate in Sanskrit Proficiency for Vedic Studies focuses on applying the grammar learned so far in reading, writing, and understanding selected texts. By reading these texts, students will memorize different masculine, feminine, and neutral bases that end in vowel sounds, and expand their vocabulary. Throughout this quarter, students will learn vocabulary related to everyday activities and effectively express their dinacharya in Saṃskṛtam. By completing this course, students will gain the necessary skills to confidently apply their knowledge in practical situations.

Intermediate Sanskrit – II

SAN0202 - (SPVS - Required Course) In the second quarter of the Intermediate Phase of the Certificate in Sanskrit Proficiency for Vedic Studies, students are introduced to a diverse range of Saṃskṛtam texts covering various subjects such as Āyurveda, Mathematics, Philosophy, and more. This immersive experience, coupled with an in-depth exploration of grammar topics, equips students with an extensive vocabulary and a solid understanding of key concepts, thereby enhancing their comprehension skills. During this phase, students also learn to paraphrase selected Saṃskṛtam verses, translate passages from English, and are able to express themselves in both spoken and written Saṃskṛtam.

Beginning Sanskrit – II

SAN0102 - (SPVS - Required Course) The Second Quarter of the Beginner Phase of the Certificate in Sanskrit Proficiency for Vedic Studies, aims to further the skills of listening, reading, and writing Saṃskṛtam in Devanāgarī script. Throughout the course students will be introduced to basic Saṃskṛtam grammar, they learn to identify parts of speech in simple present tense, and will be introduced to verb forms in imperative moods. At the end of Beginning Sanskrit course, they will be able to read easy prose passages, recite simple Saṃskṛtam verses, and discuss their meanings. They will expand their vocabulary and use it to construct simple sentences.

Beginning Sanskrit – IV

SAN0104 - (SPVS - Required Course) The fourth quarter of the Beginner Phase of the Certificate in Sanskrit Proficiency for Vedic Studies signifies the culmination of this phase. By the end of this course, students will have attained mastery in reading and writing in the Devanāgarī script, and will begin to develop an appreciation for the beauty of the language. They will be able to understand and interpret short stories and songs, exploring their meanings in English, and learning the meanings of the subhāśitāni in Saṃskṛtam. Completion of this course marks the conclusion of the Beginner Phase in the Certificate Program in Saṃskṛtam Proficiency, allowing students to progress to the Intermediate Phase.

Beginning Sanskrit – III

SAN0103 - (SPVS - Required Course) The third quarter of the Beginner Phase of the Certificate in Sanskrit Proficiency for Vedic Studies, takes the students deeper into Saṃskṛtam grammar. They are introduced to numbers in all three genders, a phenomenon unique to Saṃskṛtam, as well indeclinables, both of which are very important in Saṃskṛtam. They also learn future tense verbs and past participle forms in this course. They further enhance their vocabulary using exercises specifically designed for the purpose. In this quarter, the students begin comprehension of small Saṃskṛtam passages with the help of English translations, and are encouraged to frame their own sentences which help them progress in their learning.

Intermediate Sanskrit – I

SAN0201 - (SPVS - Required Course) The first quarter of the Intermediate Phase of the Certificate in Sanskrit Proficiency for Vedic Studies signifies the commencement of the second phase. This phase is tailored for students who have already acquired a mastery of Devanāgarī script and basic Saṃskṛtam vocabulary, and progressively exposes them to a diverse range of Saṃskṛtam Literature. Throughout this quarter, students delve into slightly more complex Saṃskṛtam grammar, including declensions, imperative mood forms, and past tense verb forms in all persons, among others. The students also gain an understanding of the unique application of dual forms of nouns and verbs in the Saṃskṛtam language. By the end of this quarter, students are capable of composing simple passages independently.

Beginning Sanskrit – I

SAN0101 - (SPVS - Required Course) The First Quarter of the Beginner Phase of the Certificate in Sanskrit Proficiency for Vedic Studies, develops students without any prior knowledge of Saṃskṛtam, in the skills of listening, reading, and writing Saṃskṛtam in Devanāgarī script. At the end of this course, students will develop the ability to pronounce and write single, combination and conjunct Devanāgarī letters, build basic vocabulary, and recite a few simple Saṃskṛtam verses with the correct pronunciation. This course Beginning Sanskrit assumes no prior knowledge of Saṃskṛtam script or language. The medium of instruction is English, and the course is easily accessible to a global audience.

Sanskrit Proficiency – II

SAN0402 - (SPVS - Required Course) The second quarter of the Proficiency Phase of the Certificate in Sanskrit Proficiency for Vedic Studies (SAN0402) is dedicated to the in-depth study of vyañjana (consonant) and visarga sandhis (coalescence of two letters coming in immediate contact with each other). These sandhis play a crucial role in the analysis and interpretation of Saṃskṛtam texts and verses. Students will actively practice combining, splitting, and accurately identifying sandhis in verses, thereby gaining a comprehensive understanding of the vyañjana and visarga sandhis by the end of the quarter.

Hindu University of America

Smt. Parvathi Sriram

Co-ordinator for Language and Sanskrit Studies