Sambodhi 2014 Vol 37

Author(s): J B Shah
Publisher: L D Indology Ahmedabad

Page 72

Relevance of Sanskrit to Modern World
Sunanda Y. Shastri
Sanskrit language has the longest past than any other language of the world. It also has the richness of variety of subjects in the sphere of science as well as in the sphere of literature and related subjects. It is also rich in the area of humanities and subjects concerned socially, politically and legally. In short every aspect concerning human life is given full thought and through that efforts are made to improve human life. The science like Silpaśāstra thinks about civil engineering, sculpture, irrigation system, establishment of villages and cities etc. The legal texts of Smrtis and Dharmaśāstras instruct the behavior of every individual of the society and exert control over it. Science of Ayurveda gives thought for health and well being. The highest philosophy can be seen in Upanisads and straight path of spiritual realization is found in Yoga science. The subjects which we think as very modern-like protection of environment etc. are also given serious thought. Modern world has many means to achieve different goals of development. Still, some areas are pitiably lacking in vision and results. The ancient knowledge in this ancient language can be made useful for the betterment of our nation and humanity in all.
Sanskrit texts for Śilpaśāstra like Mayamata and Mānasāra are famous. Śilpaśāstra includes civil engineering, sculpture, irrigation system, construction of houses, forts, utility buildings, establishment of villages, towns and cities, construction of temples etc. Branch of engineering for constructing houses is called Vāstuvidyā. The text of Mayamatam discusses all topics concerning establishment of small village to establishment of capital city and from making of bricks to the foundation and roofs of all kinds of dwellings. Vāstuśāstra has another connotation as well. It devotes so much of thought for right direction of main door, inner apartments for different uses, middlemost space of courtyard for better ventilation, ideal space for water well, waste water ways, windows etc. Main thought is convenience according to life style and energy flow.