Affiliated Innovative Programmes in Sanskrit and Indian Knowledge Systems
Prospectus 2026 – 2027
SVAMI.in, a unit of Avadhoota Datta Peetham, dedicated to Veda and Sanskrit studies, research and publication.
1. About Central Sanskrit University and SVAMI.in
Central Sanskrit University (CSU), established by an Act of Parliament, is the premier multi‑campus university for the promotion and propagation of Sanskrit and Indian knowledge systems in India and abroad.[web:61]
It serves as the nodal agency for implementation of Sanskrit‑related policies and schemes of the Government of India and coordinates closely with the Ministry of Education.[web:61]
SVAMI.in, a unit of Avadhoota Datta Peetham, is dedicated to Veda and Sanskrit studies, research and publication, offering structured programmes that bring traditional wisdom to contemporary learners.
In collaboration with CSU under the Affiliation / Innovative Programme scheme, SVAMI.in proposes certificate, diploma and post‑graduate diploma programmes focusing on memorisation, simple meanings and commentarial studies across seven major areas.
2. Vision and Mission
Vision
To make Vedic wisdom, Sanskrit literature and classical Indian knowledge systems accessible, engaging and transformative through structured, quality education rooted in traditional methodologies and supported by modern pedagogies.
Mission
To offer flexible, credit‑based programmes in Veda, Sanskrit and Indian knowledge that develop competence in memorisation, comprehension and scholarly engagement, while building communication skills and value‑based leadership in learners across all backgrounds.
3. Programme Structure and Credit Pattern
These programmes are designed as part‑time, one‑semester courses aligned with credit‑based norms followed in CSU and other Sanskrit universities for innovative and distance offerings.[web:22][web:43]
Duration per level: 1 semester (approximately 6 months) per basket (Certificate / Diploma / PG‑Diploma).
Credits per paper: 4 credits (approximately 120 hours of total learning).[web:22]
Each of the seven baskets is offered at all three levels as an independent 4‑credit course; CSU and SVAMI.in may bundle multiple baskets into larger programmes as per regulations.[web:22][web:42]
4. Eligibility, Medium and Mode
4.1 Eligibility
Certificate: Open to all candidates with basic literacy and interest in Sanskrit / Indian culture, as per norms used in CSU certificate and part‑time programmes.[web:22][web:43]
Diploma: Pass in Certificate in the same stream or equivalent knowledge in Sanskrit / relevant subject.
PG‑Diploma: Pass in Diploma in the same stream or any recognised UG degree with demonstrable background or interest in Sanskrit / Indian knowledge systems.
4.2 Medium of Instruction
Primary medium: Sanskrit with support in English and regional languages (for example Telugu).
Written exams may be permitted in Sanskrit, English or approved regional language as per CSU guidelines for affiliated institutions.[web:39][web:42]
4.3 Mode of Delivery
Courses follow a blended / online model with periodic contact classes, similar to MSP and CDOE practice.[web:22][web:41]
Weekly self‑learning modules (PDF, audio, video).
Bi‑weekly or monthly live sessions (online or in‑person).
LMS support for assignments, forums and announcements.
Guided self‑study with curated texts and resources.
5. Scheme of Examination and Evaluation
Total marks per 4‑credit paper: 100.
5.1 Internal Assessment – 40 Marks
Written (20 marks): quizzes, tests and assignments.
Written paper (and viva / practical where applicable) conducted as per CSU regulations.[web:39][web:42]
5.3 Passing Criteria
Minimum 40% in end‑semester exam.
Minimum 40% overall in the paper, as per CSU norms for affiliated programmes.[web:42]
5.4 Group Discussion and Elocution Component
Mandatory participation in at least one assessed group discussion on prescribed texts or themes.
Elocution / public speaking in English, Sanskrit and/or native language, assessed for clarity, content, scriptural references and confidence.
This component forms an integral part of internal marks and is required for course completion.
6. Programme Baskets and Syllabi
All seven baskets are offered at Certificate (Memorisation), Diploma (Simple Meanings) and PG‑Diploma (Commentaries / advanced study) levels.
6.1 Bhagavad Gita Studies
Memorisation, Meaning and Commentaries
Objectives: To train students in accurate memorisation and chanting of selected chapters of the Bhagavad Gita, to understand simple meanings and core philosophical ideas, and to introduce traditional commentaries, especially Śaṅkara‑bhāṣya.
Certificate – Memorisation (4 credits)
Selected chapters (for example 2, 12, 15) memorised with correct pronunciation, svara and chandas.
Basic oral explanation of key terms and central themes.
Assessment through recitation tests, audio/video submissions and viva‑voce.
Diploma – Simple Meanings (4 credits)
Padaccheda, anvaya and simple meanings for selected verses.
Thematic study of karma‑yoga, jñāna‑yoga and bhakti‑yoga with short essays and group discussions.
PG‑Diploma – Commentaries (4 credits)
Focused study of Śaṅkara‑bhāṣya on chosen chapters and key Advaita concepts.
Seminars, term paper and viva‑voce on integration with prasthāna‑traya.
6.2 Geeta Sachchidanandam – Devotional Music and Scriptural Themes
Objectives: To integrate devotion, music and scriptural understanding through the study and performance of “Geeta Sachchidanandam” compositions.
Certificate – Rendition (4 credits)
Memorisation of curated bhajans (lyrics and tune) with correct tala and shruti.
Individual and group performance assessments.
Diploma – Swara‑Prastāra and Simple Meanings (4 credits)
Notation, swara‑patterns and understanding of rāga‑tāla framework.
Simple thematic meanings linked to Gita and Vedanta ideas with written reflections.
PG‑Diploma – Improvisation and Commentary (4 credits)
Improvisation (manodharma) within rāga‑tāla structure and development of theological commentaries.
Project: curated thematic album with recordings and annotations.
6.3 Vedanta Texts
Panchadashi, Vivekachudamani, Avadhuta Gita, Yoga Vasistha & Minor Texts
Objectives: To introduce core Advaita Vedanta texts and progress from memorisation to simple understanding and systematic, comparative study.
Certificate – Key Verses and Concepts (4 credits)
Memorisation of selected verses (Panchadashi, Vivekachudamani, Avadhuta Gita, Yoga Vasistha).
Identification of key concepts such as ātman, brahman, māyā, viveka, vairāgya.
Diploma – Simple Meanings (4 credits)
Prose explanation of selected prakaraṇas and thematic charts on key Advaita ideas.
Short essays and guided discussions.
PG‑Diploma – Commentarial Study and Integration (4 credits)
Reading with commentaries and integration with Upaniṣads, Gita and Brahma Sutras.
Objectives: To explore narrative, ethical and theological richness of Itihāsa and Purāṇa and relate them to contemporary life.
Certificate – Narrative and Memorisation (4 credits)
Memorisation of key verses and narrative markers from Rāmāyaṇa, Mahābhārata and selected Purāṇas.
Oral storytelling of principal episodes.
Diploma – Narrative Meanings and Ethical Analysis (4 credits)
Simple narrative study of selected kāṇḍas and parvans with character analysis.
Essays and group discussions on dharma‑dilemmas and values.
PG‑Diploma – Theological and Philosophical Readings (4 credits)
Theological readings of the Gita within Mahābhārata and key Purāṇic episodes.
Research project and teaching practicum linking Itihāsa‑Purāṇa to Vedānta/Yoga.
7. Learning Outcomes
At Certificate, Diploma and PG‑Diploma levels, learners will progressively develop memorisation, comprehension, analytical and teaching skills in Sanskrit texts and Indian knowledge systems.
Recite and memorise core texts with understanding.
Explain meanings and themes in Sanskrit and support languages.
Engage with commentaries and produce analytical writing.
Participate in group discussion and public speaking across languages.
Contribute to community teaching and value education initiatives.
8. Credit Accumulation and Progression
Each course (one basket at one level) = 4 credits.
Learners may take one or more courses per semester subject to norms.
Certificate completion allows progression to Diploma in that basket.
Diploma completion allows progression to PG‑Diploma in that basket.
Credits are cumulative and reflected in CSU transcripts.[web:22][web:42]
9. Mode of Instruction and Materials
All courses use a blended delivery model combining self‑paced learning and live interaction, in line with CSU distance and online practices.[web:22][web:41]
Asynchronous modules: PDFs, recorded lectures, audio chant tracks, practice sheets.
Live sessions: clarifications, discussions, group recitation and practice.
LMS: assignment submission, announcements and peer forums.
Practical components: supervised yoga practice, music sessions, recitation drills.
10. Admissions, Fees and Academic Calendar
10.1 Admissions
Online application via CSU or SVAMI.in portal; dates notified annually.[web:35][web:47]
Eligibility verification by SVAMI.in in consultation with CSU.
Open to all irrespective of gender, caste, religion, age or location, as per policy.
10.2 Fee Structure
Fee structure is determined by CSU and SVAMI.in and published in the annual admission notification.[web:31]
Course tuition per 4‑credit paper.
Examination and certification fees where applicable.
Learning materials and LMS access.
Scholarships / financial assistance as per CSU schemes (if available).[web:30]
10.3 Academic Calendar
Semester 1: July / August to December.
Semester 2: January to June.
End‑semester examinations in the final month of each semester.
11. Examinations and Certification
11.1 Conduct of Examinations
End‑semester written exams conducted at CSU‑recognised centres or online proctored platforms.[web:39]
Practical/viva examinations by appointed examiners.
Question papers set and moderated by experts as per CSU rules.
11.2 Certification
Certificate, Diploma and PG‑Diploma certificates issued by Central Sanskrit University on successful completion.
Official transcripts list all completed courses, credits and marks.[web:42]
12. Support Services and Student Welfare
Assigned mentor / course instructor for academic guidance.
Peer support groups and forums for collaborative learning.
Accessibility accommodations subject to regulations.
Grievance redressal mechanism with defined timelines.
Alumni engagement for continued learning and networking.
13. Quality Assurance and Review
Annual curriculum review with faculty and external experts.[web:32]
Teaching evaluation by learners and peer review of materials.
Assessment data used to refine pedagogy and support.
Feedback from learners, alumni and stakeholders informs improvements.
Periodic compliance checks with CSU standards and regulations.[web:9]
14. Contact Information
SVAMI.in – Programme Administration
SGS Ashrama, Datta Nagar, Ooty Road, Mysore 570025, Karnataka, India
