Page 7 - Bhagavadgita Flipbook

Pronunciation Guide

Background

Saṃskṛta is also known as Devabhāṣā / Amarabhāratī – a language so
beautiful that even the celestials use it for their conversation. The
name ‘Saṃskṛta’ itself means ‘well-made’ or ‘perfectly done’. Each
aspect of this language, including the correct pronunciation of each and
every letter, has been analysed in detail by the ṛṣi-s (seers), giving rise
to the saying ‘amantram akṣaraṃ nāsti’, i.e., there is not a single letter
in Saṃskṛta which does not carry the power of a mantra, when
pronounced correctly.

Accurate pronunciation is one of the key factors in experiencing the
complete benefits of chanting Saṃskṛta śloka-s. Correct pronunciation
is also crucial for conveying the right meanings, as inaccurate
pronunciation of a single letter might completely change or reverse the

meaning in many cases.

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