Why is the ‘dead language’ Sanskrit still being taught in schools? Reddit post debate

A post by a Reddit user questioning the continued teaching of Sanskrit in schools has ignited a heated discussion about the language’s relevance to contemporary education.

After a Reddit user raised the question of why Sanskrit is still taught in schools, a heated debate has flared up online. The article, titled ‘Why in the world is Sanskrit still being taught in schools?’, contended that since the language is not part of everyday conversation, it has no significant value for students.

The original post raised concerns about Sanskrit being mandatory in many schools. The user asserted that the language is largely extinct and that students are compelled to memorize content rather than truly learning it.

“I learned Sanskrit for five years, but I can’t remember a single Sanskrit word,” the user wrote, arguing one commenter contended, “If you are a historian, linguist, theologian, etc., it is essential to study Sanskrit.” Another clarified that some schools, as opposed to education boards, require Sanskrit as a compulsory subject because the cost of hiring teachers for it is lower than that for foreign languages.

BACKLASH AND ONLINE HEAT 

The original poster asserted in post edits that they received personal insults and even “vile DMs” following their post. Even in the face of criticism, they maintained their stance, arguing that current methods of Sanskrit instruction do little to rejuvenate the language and merely increase students’ stress levels.

“I’ve already mentioned that the emphasis is on rote learning, and guess what—people forget things learned that way,” the user wrote.

s forget it after exams. They also criticised how the language is taught, calling it a “waste of hours” when even teachers struggle with fluency. “Continuing to teach Sanskrit in this manner is not going to revive the language,” the user wrote, suggesting it should either be removed or taught differently. 

SUPPORTERS DEFEND SANSKRIT’S PLACE 

Not everyone agreed. Many users defended Sanskrit’s inclusion in the curriculum, citing cultural and academic reasons. Some pointed out that Sanskrit is easier to score well in, making it a popular choice among students aiming for higher aggregate marks.

The discussion regarding the part Sanskrit should play in contemporary education continues, with passionate arguments from both perspectives. While some regard it as an unwarranted burden, others contend that its worth surpasses the realm of daily interaction.