World Sanskrit Day, also known as Vishva Samskrita Dinam, is celebrated every year on Shravana Purnima (the full moon day in the month of Shravana), which also coincides with Raksha Bandhan. In 2025, it will be observed on August 9, 2025. The day aims to promote and preserve Sanskrit, the ancient language that has been the bedrock of India’s literary, scientific, philosophical, and spiritual heritage.
History and origin
The observance of Sanskrit Day was initiated by the Government of India in 1969, with the goal of reviving and encouraging the usage of Sanskrit in everyday life. The choice of Shravana Purnima is symbolic—it is traditionally considered auspicious for starting Vedic learning and rituals.
This day is also closely linked with the Upakarma ceremony, where Brahmins renew their sacred thread and chant Vedic hymns, further highlighting the deep-rooted connection between Sanskrit and Indian traditions.
Relevance and significance
Sanskrit is one of the oldest known languages in the world, often referred to as the mother of all Indian languages. It is the language of the Vedas, Upanishads, Puranas, epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata, and countless classical works in philosophy, science, medicine, and arts.
World Sanskrit Day serves to:
Promote linguistic pride and awareness among students and scholars
Encourage research, learning, and speaking of Sanskrit
Preserve India’s intellectual and cultural heritage
On this day, schools, colleges, and cultural institutions across India hold poetry recitations, seminars, Sanskrit plays, shloka chanting, and competitions to celebrate the timeless beauty and depth of the language.
World Sanskrit Day is not just about the past — it’s a celebration of a living tradition that continues to shape India’s identity.
