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the subject. few words :
( )
The system pursued by me may be explained in a
(a) Unlike the ancient grammarians, who have generally laid down rules for the different Prákrita dialects in separate chapters, I have adopted the simpler plan of treating the Maharastri or the main dialect of the Prákrita in the body of the work, showing in notes its points of difference with other dialects.
(b) Instead of following the ancient authors in giving rules that are applicable only to the forms of special words, I have prefered giving a list of those words with their Sanskrit and Prakrita forms side by side. It is hoped much unprofitable trouble to the learner will be saved by this means.
(c) I have given, in easy sanskrit, rules for the declension of nouns and conjugation of verbs, and like modern grammarians illustrated these rules by showing declensions of similar classes of nouns as well as the conjugation of similar classes of verbs.
In order to make the work more widely useful English version of almost every sentence has been interpolated, though at the cost of making it a little too bulkey.
The mighty impetus given to the study of the Sanskrit language by the direct encouragement of our Enlightened Government and the indirect encouragement afforded by the example of the German linguists, is a subject of deep congratulation and the consciousness of having endeavoured to contribute in a humble way to the attain ment of a dear object, will amply repay me for the time and labour I have given to this compilation.
I cannot omit to mention here that my deep obligations are due to my esteemed friend Babu S'as'ibhushan Mukerjee M. A., B. L., professor of the Government College, Lahor, who has kindly revised the work in its passage through the press and has given me valuable suggestions which while materially diminishing my labours, have rendered the work more complete than it otherwise would have
RHISHIKESH BHATTACHA
Aho! Shrutgyanam
