Does Duolingo Offer Sanskrit Language Courses?

As of August 2023, Duolingo does not offer a Sanskrit language course. While Duolingo's language offerings have significantly expanded over the years, Sanskrit is not one of the languages currently available on its platform. For those interested in learning Sanskrit, exploring dedicated resources, textbooks, and online courses that focus specifically on this ancient language can be highly beneficial.

History and Current Status

When last checked in January 2022, Duolingo did not offer a Sanskrit language course. However, course offerings on language learning platforms can fluctuate, and I recommend verifying the latest updates on Duolingo's official website or subscription services for any new additions to their language courses. The main website and the incubator for future course listings as of a couple of weeks ago did not feature a Sanskrit course or any plans to start one in the near future.

Interactive Learning Alternatives

Even though Duolingo does not offer a Sanskrit course, their Hindi course can be utilized as a means to learn the Devanagari script, the primary script used for writing Sanskrit. While Duolingo's Hindi course primarily focuses on colloquial Hindi (read: Hindi-Urdu), the alphabet and writing system can be beneficial for anyone intending to learn Sanskrit. The interactive quiz-based approach of Duolingo can be adapted to facilitate a smoother transition into Sanskrit learning.

Business and Scholarship Considerations

Every language learning company, including Duolingo, has their own interests and business models. Duolingo's profitability depends on user engagement, and they prioritize popular languages that are widely learned. Sanskrit, despite its cultural and historical significance, may not offer the same monetary value to Duolingo as more widely spoken languages like Hindi or Spanish. Additionally, finding a scholar who is fluent in both Sanskrit and capable of developing a course is highly challenging. The combination of linguistic and technical expertise required is rarely found in the same individual, making the development of a comprehensive course in Sanskrit less likely.

Where to Find Sanskrit Courses

For those passionate about learning Sanskrit, several other resources are available:

Dedicated Language Learning Websites: Websites like NLO and Novis specialize in teaching Sanskrit and other classical languages. Textbooks: Utilize textbooks such as those produced by Oxford University Press or Penguin Random House, which offer comprehensive guides to Sanskrit grammar and vocabulary. Online Courses: Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and provide specialized courses focusing on Sanskrit, often taught by experienced scholars.

These resources not only offer structured learning but also provide the academic rigor and detailed insights necessary for mastering Sanskrit.

Conclusion

While Duolingo currently does not offer a Sanskrit language course, there are still plenty of alternative resources available for those eager to learn this ancient language. From specialized websites and textbooks to online courses, there are numerous ways to embark on your Sanskrit learning journey.

For the latest updates on language course offerings, keep an eye on Duolingo's official announcements and updates. In the meantime, traditional and specialized resources remain valuable tools for your learning journey.