Rons Bantwal

Moodbidri, Jun 21: Marking Shruta Panchami, a one-day Prakrit language learning camp was organised on Friday through the joint collaboration of the Davalatraya Trust, Shri Jain Math and Swastishri Jain Residential Pre-University College, Moodbidri.

The programme was held under the divine presence of Swastishri Charukeerthi Bhattaraka Panditacharyavarya Mahaswamiji, who blessed the gathering and underscored the significance of Prakrit as a language closely linked to nature. He said Prakrit forms the root of several North Indian languages and, along with Sanskrit, reflects India’s rich linguistic heritage. Describing Sanskrit as a “divine language”, he added that learning and understanding India’s diverse languages helps dispel ignorance and expand knowledge.

Retired History professor from SDM educational institutions Umanath Shenoy participated as the resource person and presented a Gommata Stuti, offering students a detailed explanation of its cultural and literary significance.

The camp was inaugurated with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp by entrepreneur and art patron Shailendra Kumar, who spoke on the importance of Prakrit language studies. He said Prakrit was historically used as a mother tongue in several regions and highlighted its linguistic and cultural value for students.

Chief guests Jagdish Adhikari, Moodbidri, and Sanjayanth Kumar Shetty, administrator of Shri Jain Math, also participated in the programme.

The event was compered by lecturer Hitesh Rao, while lecturer Sujatha Ballal delivered the vote of thanks. Principal Soumya Shri welcomed the gathering. Faculty members and students were present.

At the conclusion of the programme, the Davalatraya Jain Kashi Trust (R) distributed certificates to participants in the presence of the Swamiji.