SOME FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

WHAT ARE VEDAS?

Please see this article

CAN ANYONE LEARN VEDAS?

Brahmins who have had their Upanayanam are being taught the Vedas in the Veda Paathashaala. Others may contact for guidance on classes and resources.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN VEDAS AND SHLOKAS?

Vedas are Shrutis, and are classified as "apaurusheya" - i.e. not attributable to an individual or even a God. For example, the Bhagavad Gita was first given by Lord Krishna. So, God's own compositions - i.e. attributable to a single entity are also not Vedas but are considered Shlokas. This difference is important. However, Vedas are "perceived" or "heard" by ancient Rishis and have never been attributed to anyone.

IS IT OKAY TO LEARN VEDAS ON SKYPE?

Yes. The technology to communicate across such vast distances and with so many different cultures was not something that was known to have existed in the past. However, there are some rules. These rules depend on the Sampradaya the student belongs to. Hence, the pravara is used as a way to introduce yourself to the Guru. Based on the Sampradaya, the student would have to wear the appropriate traditional attire (Brahmavastra, Vibhuti, Naamam etc.). Details can be discussed in your first class.

WHAT IS THE RIGHT AGE TO LEARN THE SHLOKAS/VEDAS?

The earlier the child starts learning Shlokas, better. We have students as young as 3 years old. The younger children have developing memories and hence are able to easily grasp the fundamentals of the Samskrutham language and remember it for a longer duration. The memorization process is also easier as one is younger. However, that being said, we also have several adults who have not had the fortune of being educated in the Vedas at a younger age. So, in principle, any age group can be taught.

I AM AN ADULT, CAN I STILL LEARN?

Yes. Adults can learn Shlokas/Vedas. Given the previous response on age, adults would have to put in the effort to stay consistent with their practice. The Guru will guide you on practice schedule and method etc.

IS KNOWLEDGE OF SANSKRIT LANGUAGE REQUIRED FOR ME TO LEARN?

No, no prior Samskrutham knowledge is required. The corrections on pronunciation (uchchaarana) and diction (swara) will be made live, during the class.