Śrīla Prabhupāda on Sanskṛt Pronunciation & on Sanskṛt Diacritics

Post date: May 09, 2009 11:30:48 AM

-For those who are followers of Srila Prabhupada, do have a look at his firm desire that in future all his followers should learn to pronounce correctly the Sanskrit verses which he so painstakingly included in transliterated format in all his books.

Also included is a humourous incident in the early days when he acknowledged how difficult it could be for westerners to pronounce Sanskrit.... accuracy in pronunciation is not imporant in comparison to a sincere service attitude in devotion.

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Śrīla Prabhupāda’s written, signed order on Sanskrit diacritics:

Prabhupāda: In reply to Jayādvaita’s questions, henceforward the policy for using diacritic markings is that I want them used everywhere, on large books, small books and also BTG. If there is any difficulty with the pronunciation, then after the correct diacritic spelling, in brackets the words “pronounced as …” may be written. So even on covers the diacritic markings should be used. We should not have to reduce our standard on account of the ignorant masses. Diacritic spelling is accepted internationally, and no learned person will even care to read our books unless this system is maintained.

- Letter to Jadurāṇī, 31 December, 1971

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