MP of New Zealand, Gaurav Sharma, who has an Indian origin took oath in Sanskrit
Bengaluru: Sanskrit is one of the oldest languages. Many ancient Indian texts are in Sanskrit.
So knowing and speaking Sanskrit not only instils pride but throws open a rich repository of our ancient literature.
As we talk about this beautiful language, it is heartening to note that newly elected MP of New Zealand, Gaurav Sharma, who has an Indian origin and belongs to the Labour Party, took oath in Sanskrit.
Sharma, 33, hails from Hamirpur in Himachal Pradesh.
Reports add that he first took oath in Maori and then in Sanskrit.
India's High Commissioner to New Zealand and Samoa, Muktesh Pardeshi said in this tweet, "@gmsharmanz, one of the youngest, newly elected MP in NZ Parliament took oath today, first in NZ’s indigenous Maori language, followed by India’s classical language- Sanskrit, showing deep respect for cultural traditions of both India and New Zealand."
Sharma also revealed thus: "I have been told today that I am only the second person ever to take Oath/Affirmation in Sanskrit outside of India."
But why did he choose Sanskrit?
In his own words, "To be honest I did think of that (taking oath in Hindi), but then there was the question of doing it in Pahari (my first language) or Punjabi. Hard to keep everyone happy. Sanskrit made sense as it pays homage to all the Indian languages (including the many I can’t speak)."
Why Sanskrit is so important:
On World Sanskrit Day (August 3) Ramesh Kumar Pandey, Vice-Chancellor, Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri National Sanskrit University (Central University), New Delhi had this to say about the glorious language.
He said, Sanskrit is not merely a subject. This is the language which is in fact, connected with various ancient and modern subjects and becomes the base of prestigious vocations. Sanskrit education is based on values of life and living. Because of this, a person who is well versed with Sanskrit language, witnesses the evolution of his character and personality which is required in every area of living. And now, with the New Education Policy 2020, Sanskrit can play a very important role to realize the dream of “Atmanirbhar Bharat” as India moves forward in the 21st century.”
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