‘Bhavan Katham Asti’: Sanskrit is one of the oldest languages in the world, The language is very mythological and culturally important to India. The word “Bhavan Katham Asti?” meaning “How are you?” in Sanskrit might become pretty alien to most people living in India today. We have drifted away from our linguistic roots over time, and the use of our native languages, including Sanskrit, has faded away. Today, foreign languages are increasingly becoming the medium of communication, and with them, our traditional linguistic heritage gradually disappears.
Amid the ongoing language debates in India, an incident from Assam is making headlines. In a village in Assam, both children and elders are embracing the Sanskrit language with pride.
In a viral incident, we see a kid asking for vegetables from a shopper in Sanskrit. “Ek kilo parimitam alookam dadatu,” requested Amalendu, a villager in Patiala Basti, asking for a kilogram of potatoes. Shopkeeper Akbar responded: “Astu dadami (take it).”
This is just a scene from the village of Assam, Sanskrit has become an integral part of communication in Anipur Basti and Patiala Basti near the Bangladesh border in southern Assam’s Karimganj. The area is a Muslim-majority border place, considering the fact that their native language is Bengali.
Assam’s Border Villages Preserving The Heritage:
According to locals, Anipur Basti converses comfortably in Sanskrit, conducting business and even personal calls in the ancient language. The place is home to around 300 of the 400 residents who are preserving Sanskrit.
Suman Kumar Nath, a local school teacher and resident of Anipur, said, “Being the oldest language of the country, Sanskrit is a very rich language and a reservoir of our ancient knowledge.” He also mentioned that his school educates 200 children, including 20 Muslim students, and teaches all students to converse in Sanskrit from Classes 1 to 10. Everyone learns Sanskrit.
People got inspired by Sanskrit 9 years ago through workshops and educational programs aimed at bringing back Sanskrit into daily life.
Here Are 5 Inspirational Slogans In Sanskrit That Are World-Famous:
Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam: “The world is one family.”
Satyameva Jayate: “Truth alone triumphs.”
Ahimsa Paramo Dharma:“Non-violence is the highest virtue.”
Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah, Sarve Santu Niraamayaah: “May all be happy, may all be free from disease.”
Jeevanam Anantam Nrityati Yadi Naashrayo Yaati: “Life is infinite; it dances towards its own shelter.”
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