Scope of Sanskrit Studies in the Kerala Context

This paper explores the scope of Sanskrit research within the Kerala context, highlighting its profound influence on Malayalam and the Dravidian linguistic environment. Kerala’s rich cultural tapestry, shaped by Aryan, Arabian, Portuguese, Jewish, Dutch, and British influences, has integrated Sanskrit deeply into its literary and linguistic fabric. Sanskrit’s impact is visible in Malayalam phonology, morphology, syntax, and semantics, as well as in the literary traditions of Kerala, including classical poetry and drama. The study examines challenges in teaching Sanskrit as a second language, semantic shifts in Sanskrit-derived words, and the influence of Sanskrit literature on Malayalam. It underscores the need for comprehensive research to address these issues and enhance the relevance of Sanskrit in contemporary linguistic and literary studies. Keywords: Sanskrit, Malayalam, linguistic influence, Dravidian languages, second language acquisition, semantic change, literary traditions, Kerala.