Moodbidri: Sanskrit is not merely a language; it is the lifeline of Indian culture and an inexhaustible source of knowledge. Having nurtured thousands of years of thought, wisdom and intellectual tradition, Sanskrit remains an invaluable treasure of India’s cultural heritage. From the Vedas and Upanishads to the Ramayana and Mahabharata, and from the works of Kalidasa to the vast heritage of Indian philosophy and literature, Sanskrit has remained closely intertwined with the evolution of Indian civilisation. The rich cultural and intellectual tradition associated with Sanskrit continues to flourish at Excellent Pre-University College, Moodbidri, said Dr. Vidwan Galimane Vinayaka Bhat, Head of the Department of Sanskrit, Alva’s Autonomous College. He was speaking after inaugurating the Sanskrit Festival held at Excellent Pre-University College, Moodbidri. Dr. Bhat highlighted the uniqueness of Sanskrit, its scientific structure, literary richness and inseparable connection with the Indian way of life. He said that learning Sanskrit is not merely the acquisition of a language, but a beautiful journey into the depths of India’s ancient knowledge tradition. “Every word in Sanskrit carries the breath of a great tradition, and every shloka embodies a profound philosophy of life. The study of such a language not only enhances linguistic proficiency among students but also develops a deeper understanding of culture, values and thought,” he said. He further said that programmes that sow the seeds of culture in the soil of education create in students a sense of pride in their heritage, love for the language and curiosity about India’s immense intellectual wealth. Sanskrit festivals, he added, serve as a beautiful bridge towards an education that goes beyond marks and examinations and helps students understand the deeper meaning of life. Presiding over the programme, Rashmitha Jain, Secretary of Excellent Pre-University College, said that Sanskrit is an invaluable treasure of knowledge, culture and tradition. Indian customs and practices, values and thoughts that have guided generations are deeply rooted in Sanskrit. She said that the study of Sanskrit helps develop concentration, logical thinking, language skills and overall personality. “Sanskrit is the mother of languages and the root of Indian culture. It is not merely a divine language; it is also a language of emotions that gives expression to our feelings and touches the human heart,” she said. Vice Principal Sunad Raj Jain, High School Headmaster Shivaprasad Bhat, Tejaswi Bhat and lecturer Parshwanath Jain were present on the occasion. As part of the programme, students who had secured 100 marks in Sanskrit in the previous academic year were honoured with certificates and mementos in recognition of their achievement. Student Himani Shetty compered the programme.