Classical Languages & their Status in Ancient India

Classical languages in ancient India—primarily Sanskrit and Tamil—were the primary vehicles for intellectual discourse and religious expression, evolving from oral traditions to highly systematized written forms. Their status was defined by their political patronage, literary longevity, and their fundamental role in codifying philosophy, grammar, law, and the foundational narratives of Indian civilization.

Status and Contribution of Key Languages

Vedic Sanskrit

  • Sacred and Ritual: The language of the Vedas, Brahmanas, Aranyakas, and Upanishads. It was an oral, highly inflected, and ritualistically preserved language.
  • Religious Foundation: Laid the entire spiritual, philosophical, and mythological foundation for Hinduism; its hymns were believed to possess ....
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Indian History