Diploma in Pali

(This programme will be conducted in online mode.)

Date of commencement:  22nd July 2023
Days and timings: Fridays; 11.00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m. and Saturdays; 11.00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m. 3.00 p.m. to 5.00 p.m

This Diploma assumes a basic knowledge of Pali and is a bridge programme for those who wish to pursue the M.A. (Pali) later. It is also open to those who seek a deeper introduction to Pali grammar and literature. The programme is an intensive one, with students required to take three courses of 2 credits each semester.

They are introduced to the history of Pali language and literature, grammar and to Buddhist concepts through a selection of essays in Pali. The second semester continues the focus on grammar, while adding selections from the Tipitaka, narrative and post-canonical literature. Two workshops in each semester on Brahmi and Rock-cut Architecture, on manuscriptology and meditation, add a practical dimension to the learning process.

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Key Information

Eligibility

HSC or equivalent examination (e.g. 10+2)

Pedagogy

Teaching-learning occurs primarily in lecture format, but workshops add a practical dimension, with one of them being offered in the site-based learning mode. Selections from canonical literature form an integral part of the learning process, so that students become familiar with the different genres and styles, even as they hone their language skills.

Curriculum

 
 
Semester I Semester II
History of Pali Language and Literature Pali Grammar II
Pali Grammar I Pali Narrative Literature
Selections from Pali Nibandhavali Selection from Tipitaka and Post-Canonical Literature
Workshop 1 Workshop 1
Workshop 2 Workshop 2

Differentiator

The Centre for Buddhist Studies has led the field in innovative curriculum design that addresses the learning needs of students who can engage full time, as well as those who pursue their passion part-time, at their own pace. The faculty have diverse specialisations, which is reflected in the syllabus.

The Diploma in Pali programme provides a good foundation, based on which a student who has a Bachelor’s degree can pursue an M.A. (Pali) at our institution.

Recognising that Buddhism is a living tradition, eminent members of the Sangha are regularly invited to or campus. This gives students an opportunity for experiential learning. The institution has had the privilege of hosting His Holiness the Dalai Lama four times. ven. Dhammadipa, a Buddhist monk from the Czech republic, is an annual visitor who has taught several key programmes on meditation texts as well as led retreats.

The K J Somaiya Institute of Dharma Studies has a library with over 30,000 books, which is an important resource.

In addition to the workshops that are an integral part of this programme, students can attend seminars, workshops and field trips that are offered by the institution across the various disciplines. This creates opportunities of learning beyond the classroom and permits interaction with students pursuing different interests: this is a key feature of the learning experience on our campus.

The most unique aspect of our Centre is community engagement at our outreach project, Jetavan, in rural Maharashtra, which is available for students to visit and volunteer for engagement. The centre has been set up in collaboration with Godavari Biorefineries and Ven. Dhammadipa.

Programme Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the programme, a student will:

  • Have a good foundation in Pali language and literature of various genres.
  • Have an understanding of the fundamental concepts in Buddhism through short essays in Pali that will help the student in accessing canonical, narrative and post-canonical literature.

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