Experts express concern over discontinuation of Sanskrit studies

Thane, Dec 31 (UNI) Eminent scholars have expressed serious concerns over the discontinuation of Sanskrit studies in many universities of the world, including Cambridge University.

Addressing the delegates participating in a daylong national seminar, ''Darsana and its relevance to Indian Culture'' here during the weekend, organised by the Institute for Oriental Study, the Institute's president Dr Vijay V Bedekar said many Indians disapproved when the Sanskrit studies were stopped there.

He alleged that India was not doing enough to encourage the study of the language.

Mr Bedekar said such seminars would prove beneficial to the citizens and make them aware about the rich heritage of the country.

The exact translation of Sanskrit words in English was a difficult task, he pointed out. He cited an example of the word 'Sati', which is translated as 'Widow Burning'. He said this expression was incorrect as a woman was not ready to accept widowship after her husband's death and therefore, she wanted to end her life, he noted.

He said there were many such examples need to be examined and such seminars would help contribute immensely towards that endeavour.

A number of scholars and researchers from all over the country presented their papers on different subjects.

UNI