Governor Lalji Tandon pitches for Sanskrit education

Darbhanga: Bihar Governor Lalji Tandon on Tuesday stressed the need for promoting the learning of Sanskrit, asserting that the ancient language was philologically ideal for computers besides having a rich repertoire of timeless wisdom that would foster national unity and thwart divisive tendencies.

Addressing the sixth convocation of Kameshwar Singh Darbhanga Sanskrit University here, Tandon underscored that Sanskrit literature was full of inspirational material when it came to ideals like peace, harmony and fraternity and teaching the language to young pupils would automatically lead to their imbibing values like respect for the family and hospitality.

Referring to the Vedic hymn Sarve Sukhina Santu, Sarve Santu Niramayah, Tandon said it was the only verse of its kind in the entire world wherein a wish has been expressed for the welfare of all living beings.

Imparting the knowledge of Sanskrit would result in fostering national unity which is essential at a time when we are faced with sharp divisions along the lines of language, region, caste and threats like naxalism and terrorism, he added.

Another uniqueness of this language is its phonetics. Words are spelled exactly as they are pronounced in Sanskrit and, therefore, many scientists have expressed the opinion that this ancient language is ideal for use in computers.

 If India is to reclaim its status as Jagadguru (the Guru of the world), it must lay due emphasis on imparting Sanskrit education, he added.

The occasion was also marked by the Governor, who is the Chancellor of all the state universities, conferring an honorary doctorate on Sulabh founder Bindeshwari Pathak.

Governor showered praise on him for the contributions made in improving sanitation facilities and awareness about the same.

Named as the brand ambassador of the Swachh Rail Abhiyan, which is a part of Prime Minister Narendra Modis Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, Pathak has also authored a book on Sociology of Sanitation. 

He has also been credited for inclusion of Sociology of Sanitation as a UGC-approved course at undergraduate and post-graduate levels in many centres of higher learning.