Learning Sanskrit in Pune: Reflections on the AIIS Summer Program

This past summer, I had the privilege of participating in the American Institute of Indian Studies (AIIS) Sanskrit Summer Program in Pune, India, thanks to the support of the South Asian Studies Council. For two months, my daily life was shaped by intensive Sanskrit study but also by the sounds and rhythms of Maharashtrian culture.

A Day in the Program

Each morning began with a rickshaw ride through the busy streets of Pune, weaving between motorbikes, cows, and street vendors. That short ride to class became a daily ritual, reminding me of the vibrancy of the city that hosted our studies.

Our mornings were devoted to grammar lessons—working through verb conjugations, compound structures, and translation exercises. Afternoons often involved guided readings of Sanskrit texts, where the challenge of parsing dense syntax gave way to moments of philosophical clarity. Evenings were usually spent reviewing notes, practicing vocabulary, or discussing ideas and visiting local sites with classmates.

For me, Sanskrit is more than an academic tool—it is a bridge across traditions. My academic work centers on comparative theology, particularly bringing Christian thought into dialogue with Vaiṣṇavism and Advaita Vedānta. Reading texts in the original language opened up nuances and layers of meaning that are often lost in translation. By the end of the program, I felt more confident and prepared to pursue my research with rigor and creativity.

Immersing in Pune and Maharashtrian Culture

Living in Pune added an irreplaceable dimension to the program. Beyond the classroom, daily life offered constant opportunities to experience the cultural world in which Sanskrit is embedded. Visiting local temples allowed me to witness the devotional practices that continue to animate the city. Shared meals introduced me to Maharashtrian cuisine, from simple street snacks to festive dishes. Even simple routines—like bargaining with rickshaw drivers or learning local phrases—became lessons in cultural immersion.

These experiences gave me a deeper appreciation not just for Sanskrit as a classical language, but for its living presence in India today.

Looking Ahead

This program confirmed my commitment to continuing advanced Sanskrit study and to pursuing a career in comparative theology. It showed me how language learning itself can be a form of intercultural dialogue, one that builds bridges across faiths and traditions.

I am deeply grateful to the South Asian Studies Council and its donors for supporting this opportunity. My summer in Pune was one of challenge, growth, and discovery, and it will continue to shape my scholarship and vocation for years to come.

Arturo's studies in Pune were supported by a South Asian Studies Summer Language Grant. To learn about the experiences of other students funded by SASC in summer 2025, visit our Instagram, @yalesouthasia.