Course Content

This course consists of four modules.

Module 01: Introduction to Pāṇini’s Aṣṭādhyāyī
This module introduces the historical significance of Sanskrit grammar and highlights Pāṇini’s monumental contribution to linguistic theory. Students will examine the structure of the Aṣṭādhyāyī and its remarkably concise format, gaining an understanding of the sūtra-based methodology that forms the backbone of Sanskrit grammar.
Module 02: Fundamental Concepts and Terminology
This module familiarizes students with essential terminology and foundational concepts necessary for interpreting Pāṇini’s grammar. Core ideas covered include paribhāṣās (meta-rules), saṃjñās (technical terms), and sphoṭa (the underlying meaning in language), all of which are critical for decoding complex Sanskrit constructions.
Module 03: Analyzing Aṣṭādhyāyī Sūtras
Focusing on practical application, this module trains students to apply Pāṇini’s sūtras to resolve syntactic and semantic ambiguities. Emphasis is placed on sandhi rules (phonetic transformations at word boundaries), with hands-on exercises in both written and spoken Sanskrit.
Module 04: Advanced Topics in Vyākaraṇa
This module explores advanced topics, including the dhātu system (verbal roots and their forms), nominal compound formation, and the application of grammatical tools to Vedic texts. Students will gain deeper insight into the sophisticated processes of word formation, essential for interpreting Vedic and philosophical literature.