Modern Sanskrit

This book explores aspects of Sanskrit cultural production from the last two centuries, paying attention to Sanskrit’s inherently dialogical nature and pluralism within Indian history. It demonstrates how the use of classical Sanskrit in the present creates conversations with established practices of the past, and suggests that the decision to use Sanskrit at all is, in a postcolonial world, to enter into a dialogue between tradition and modernity. Throughout the modern period Sanskrit writers, speakers, and proponents have continually engaged with interlocutors both near and far. They have addressed historical events and contemporary social issues, embraced other forms of literature, and experimented with new genres. The volume reflects on the various registers in which Sanskrit writing can appear, the relationship with established and new religious traditions, the performative aspects of Sanskrit, and its role in teaching and learning. Highlighting the multiplicity of Sanskrit, the book will be of particular interest to scholars of religious studies, language, literature, and South Asian studies.