New Delhi — On the occasion of World Sanskrit Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called Sanskrit a “timeless source of knowledge and expression” and reiterated his government’s commitment to promoting the ancient language through education, technology, and cultural initiatives.
In a message shared on X, PM Modi said, “Today, on Shravan Poornima, we mark World Sanskrit Day. Sanskrit is a timeless source of knowledge and expression. Its impact can be found across sectors. This day is an occasion to appreciate the effort of every person around the world who is learning and popularising Sanskrit.”
Highlighting measures taken over the past decade, the Prime Minister noted that the Centre had established Central Sanskrit Universities, launched Sanskrit Learning Centres, provided grants to Sanskrit scholars, and rolled out the Gyan Bharatam Mission to digitise ancient manuscripts. “These initiatives have benefitted countless students and researchers,” he added.
World Sanskrit Day is celebrated every year on the full moon day of the Shravan month, which also coincides with Raksha Bandhan. The tradition dates back to 1969 when it was first observed jointly by the Government of India and Sanskrit institutions. Sanskrit Week is also marked annually, this year from August 6 to 12, with seminars, recitations, and workshops aimed at connecting the younger generation with the language’s cultural and intellectual heritage.
Historically, Shravan Purnima marked the beginning of the academic year in ancient India. Students would commence the study of scriptures, and the recitation of the Vedas would begin on this day — symbolising the start of a new cycle of learning under the guidance of sages.
PM Modi emphasised that Sanskrit not only preserves India’s ancient wisdom but also has relevance in modern science, linguistics, and philosophy. Quoting a well-known verse — Amritam Sanskritam Mitram, Sarsam Saralam Vachah; Ekta-Moolakam Rashtram, Gyan-Vigyan-Poshakam — he underscored Sanskrit’s elegance, clarity, and its role in fostering national unity while nurturing both knowledge and scientific thought.
