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Discover Sanskrit Literature for UPSC: Syllabus, exam pattern, preparation tips, and advantages. Opt for linguistic richness and cultural insights.
Sanskrit Literature for UPSC is not widely chosen because of the perception that it does not have much linguistic popularity. However, once the grammar of Sanskrit has been understood, studying it is not very complex. If you are a candidate who wants to start preparing for Sanskrit literature, we advise you to scroll down and familiarise yourself with the syllabus and other details required for preparation.
Sanskrit is one of the oldest languages in the world, and is known as the mother of many languages. Unlike other languages in India, Sanskrit is not widely spoken. The Sanskrit language is one of the 22 official languages of India and is also a classical language. The literature of the Sanskrit language has a long history and is still popular among linguists.
Sanskrit literature covers the cultural and intellectual heritage of ancient India. Its linguistic richness, characterized by intricate grammar and diverse literary genres, reflects the profound philosophical, religious, and artistic pursuits of its creators. Sanskrit literature encompasses a rich body of poetic and philosophical works spanning centuries.
From timeless epics like the Ramayana to the elegant dramas of Kalidasa and Bhasa and the wisdom of the Upanishads and Bhagavad Gita, Sanskrit literature stands as a testament to the depth of human thought and expression on the Indian subcontinent.
The Sanskrit Literature Syllabus is divided into two papers: Paper 1 and Paper 2, each carrying 250 marks. Both papers consist of eight questions, divided equally into two parts of four questions each.
A candidate has to answer any five questions, with Question 1 and Question 5 being compulsory. Out of the remaining, candidates can attempt any five questions, choosing at least one from each section. Unlike other literature subjects, UPSC has mandated that certain parts of the question paper must be answered in Sanskrit while remaining in the candidates’ preferred language.
| UPSC Sanskrit Literature Optional Exam Pattern | |
| Particular | Details |
| Total Papers | Two papers, Paper I and Paper II |
| Total Marks | 500 (250 Each) |
| Time allowed | 3 Hours for each paper |
| Sections | Section A and Section B |
| Questions | total 8 questions with subparts |
| Compulsory Question | Question No. 1 and 5 |
| Marks Distribution | 10, 15, and 20 marker questions |
Section A:
Section B:
Sanskrit literature syllabus involves study of Sanskrit grammar, features of Sanskrit language, its literary history, philosophies, development, etc. Candidates have to study some literary works as part of the syllabus. The detailed Sanskrit literature syllabus is given below:
As part of Paper I, candidates are required to study grammar, general knowledge-based questions from Sanskrit texts, essentials of Indian culture, trends in Indian philosophy, short essays (in Sanskrit), unseen passages with questions, etc.
Note: There will be three questions as indicated in the Question Paper which must be answered in Sanskrit. The Remaining questions must be answered either in Sanskrit or in the medium of examination opted by the candidate.
| Section A |
|
| Section B |
| 4. Essential of Indian Culture with stress on:
(a). Purusãrthas (b). Samskãras (c). Varnãsramavyavasthã (d). Arts and fine arts (e). Technical Sciences. 5. Trends of Indian Philosophy (a) Mïmansã (b) Vedãnta (c) Nyaya (d) Vaisesika (e) Sãnkhya (f) Yoga (g) Bauddha (h) Jaina (i) Carvãka 6. Short Essay (in Sanskrit) 7. Unseen passage with the questions (to be answered in Sanskrit). |
| Section A: Study of following groups: | |
| Note: Question from Group 4 is to be answered in Sanskrit only. Questions from Groups 1, 2 and 3 are to be answered either in Sanskrit or in the medium opted by the candidate. | |
| Group 1 |
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| Group 2 |
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| Group 3 |
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| Group 4 | Short notes in Sanskrit on the following:—
|
| Section B | |
| Note: This section will require first hand reading of the following selected texts : Questions from Groups 1 & 2 are to be answered in Sanskrit only. Questions from Groups 3 and 4 are to be answered either in Sanskrit or in the Medium opted by the candidate. | |
| Group 1 |
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| Group 2 |
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| Group 3 |
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| Group 4 |
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The complete list of books that will cover Sanskrit literature syllabus can be found below:
| Paper 1 | Paper 2 |
|
|
| Year | Question Paper |
| 2023 Sanskrit Literature Optional | Paper 1: Sanskrit Literature |
| Paper 2: Sanskrit Literature | |
| 2022 Sanskrit Literature Optional | Paper 1: Sanskrit Literature |
| Paper 2: Sanskrit Literature | |
| 2021 Sanskrit Literature Optional | Paper 1: Sanskrit Literature |
| Paper 2: Sanskrit Literature | |
| 2020 Sanskrit Literature Optional | Paper 1: Sanskrit Literature |
| Paper 2: Sanskrit Literature | |
| 2019 Sanskrit Literature Optional | Paper 1: Sanskrit Literature |
| Paper 2: Sanskrit Literature |
Sanskrit literature for UPSC is optional and has some advantages over other subjects. These are some considerations that candidates can check before opting for Sanskrit literature:
Candidates can develop a strategy for scoring good marks in Sanskrit literature by following some of the methods given below:
Sanskrit literature has high potential for good marks, provided that candidates prepare the subject with a proper strategy and guidance. Prior experience studying the subject may provide an advantage; dedicated preparation and a genuine interest in the Sanskrit texts can lead to success in examinations. Thus, choosing Sanskrit literature offers academic benefits along with an opportunity for personal growth and a deeper understanding of Indian tradition and philosophy.
| Must Read | |
| NCERT Notes For UPSC | UPSC Daily Current Affairs |
| UPSC Blogs | UPSC Daily Editorials |
| Daily Current Affairs Quiz | Daily Main Answer Writing |
| UPSC Mains Previous Year Papers | UPSC Test Series 2024 |
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