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Bengaluru, a city known for its bustling life and numerous attractions, is home to the beautiful Cubbon Park. What sets Cubbon Park apart is its charm which appeals to all age groups. Parents often bring their children here on weekends to enjoy nature and unwind. But did you know that on Sundays, the park hosts Sanskrit classes? Yes, thanks to the efforts of Samashthi Gubbi, Cubbon Park has become a hub for learning the ancient language of Sanskrit.
Samashthi Gubbi, a Bengaluru resident, started the initiative 'Sanskrit Weekends' to help children, young adults, and elders learn Sanskrit through engaging activities. This initiative caught the attention of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who praised it during his 'Mann Ki Baat' radio address. He highlighted the importance of Sanskrit in ancient Indian knowledge and science and emphasized the need to integrate it into daily life.
Growing Popularity of Sanskrit Weekends
Sanskrit Sundays at Cubbon Park, launched by Sthaayi.in three months ago, have gained significant popularity. The New Sunday Express featured these sessions, noting how they have become a monthly event. The sessions aim to teach Sanskrit through simple conversations, films, music, and other activities. Initially starting with just eight participants, the group has now grown to 800 members.
Activities and Expansion Plans
Samashthi explained to The New Indian Express that their method of teaching Sanskrit involves interactive and fun activities. Many young people have joined and even formed discussion groups in their colleges and universities. The initiative has also expanded to Mumbai and Pune, with the goal of establishing similar groups in every state. Sthaayi.in, founded in 2020-21, has also translated Hindi and English songs into Sanskrit, produced food vlogs in Sanskrit, and organized events like 'Sanskrit Rides' and a Sanskrit Marathon. The next bike ride is scheduled for July 6 in Bengaluru.
The Beauty and Significance of Cubbon Park
Cubbon Park, officially known as Sri Chamarajendra Park, is a lush green space in the heart of Bengaluru. Established in 1870 by Major General Richard Sankey, the British Chief Engineer of Mysore State, the park originally covered 100 acres and has now expanded to 300 acres. It offers a serene escape from the city's hustle and bustle with its vibrant greenery, diverse flora and fauna, and numerous historical buildings and statues.
A Cultural and Recreational Hub
Cubbon Park is not just a green oasis; it is also a cultural hub. It houses a library, museums, a tennis academy, an aquarium, and even a toy train. It's one of the few parks in the city with a busy road running through it, adding to its unique charm. Early mornings and evenings see joggers and nature enthusiasts enjoying the park's peaceful paths. Besides Cubbon park also host many cultural and creative programs like rangoli competition organized, Bengaluru Habba festival etc.
Encouraging Daily Use of Sanskrit
According to The New Indian Express Samashthi believes that Sanskrit should not be limited to classrooms or temples. Her vision is to make Sanskrit a part of daily life, encouraging people from all communities to join the Sunday events at Cubbon Park. The support from the community and the recognition from the Prime Minister have boosted their efforts, making Sanskrit Weekends a thriving initiative.
Cubbon Park is not only a place for relaxation and recreation but also a center for cultural and educational activities. The Sanskrit Weekends initiative by Samashthi Gubbi has transformed the park into a vibrant space for learning and engaging with one of the world's oldest languages. Whether you visit for a jog, a family outing, or to learn Sanskrit, Cubbon Park offers something special for everyone.
