Begin Your Sanskrit Journey
Welcome to a modern, systematic approach to learning Sanskrit designed specifically for busy adults. Whether you're interested in reading ancient texts, understanding Indian culture, or preparing for IGCSE exams, this course provides the structure and flexibility you need.
Join Next Batch Explore Sandhi RulesA carefully designed 40-lesson curriculum that takes you from beginner to IGCSE level.
Concise weekly sessions designed to fit into your busy schedule with flexible practice options.
Learn from an experienced teacher with knowledge in both traditional and modern teaching methods.
Students consistently achieve A*s and As at IGCSE, with two in the last two years achieving the Highest Mark in the World certificate.
Course Overview: Sanskrit in 40 Lessons
Lessons 1-10
The Devanagari script, Sanskrit grammar and application.
Lessons 11-20
Sentence translations, introduction to sandhi ('phonetic fusion') and samāsas (compounds).
Lessons 21-30
Story translations without sandhi application.
Lessons 31-40
Story translations with sandhi application.
What Our Students Say
Sanskrit with Rishi has been a genuine pleasure. He wields some pedagogical sorcery to diminish the rote learning usually associated with learning Sanskrit. A veritable polyglot, Rishi often helps to explain grammatical concepts using examples from learners' native languages. This, along with his boundless patience, makes Sanskrit accessible to all. Preparing for the IGCSE exam with Rishi makes me wish I had language teachers like him when I was in school! For those interested in results, by following Rishi's advice, I managed to achieve the highest mark in the world in the 2024 IGCSE exam! I do not take naturally to languages, so am incredibly grateful for Rishi's expertise and support without which I'm sure this result would not have been possible.
Dr Gaurav Prinja
(Received the Highest Mark in the World certificate attaining 179/180 in the 2024 IGCSE exam)
The best introductory Sanskrit course in English I was able to find (having tried others). A must for those who want to be able to read and write the language up to the level of understanding shlokas from the Bhagavadgītā.
S.H.P. Steadman
Rare. Professional. Challenging at times. Effective. Rishi's Sanskrit course brings you from level 0 to a good understanding of the oldest language in the world, weaving in Indian philosophy and spirituality.
Windy M.
Learning Sanskrit with Rishi has been a truly rewarding experience. His teaching style is exceptional, and it has made learning this elegant language an absolute delight. His passion for the language shines through in every session.
Sumit Mistry
Dr Rishi Handa is an excellent Sanskrit teacher—knowledgeable, engaging, and patient. He explains complex ideas clearly and creates a supportive learning environment. His innovative teaching methods make learning both fun and effective.
Sandeep Sood
I am very glad to have signed up for Rishi's Sanskrit classes and they have exceeded my expectations. While Sanskrit can be a very challenging language, Rishi tactfully and patiently takes his students on the journey.
Asmeeta B
Rishi is such a brilliant teacher. He is friendly, funny, and makes the whole experience genuinely enjoyable. What I've appreciated most is the way he explains Sanskrit; he has a way of breaking it down so it actually feels accessible, while also weaving in the deeper philosophy alongside the language which adds so much depth to the learning. The whole course feels very supportive and adaptable to your needs, and Rishi is always there if you need guidance.
Mabel Armitage
I'm incredibly grateful to Rishi for his guidance and support while preparing for my IGCSE Sanskrit exam from scratch. His clear and structured teaching made complex grammar and texts much easier to understand, and his patience and encouragement really helped build my confidence. Thanks to his dedication, I felt well-prepared for my exam and would highly recommend him to anyone looking to learn this beautiful language Sanskrit.
Vriti Taneja
Learning Sanskrit from Rishi has been a deeply enriching and rewarding experience. His ability to present a traditionally complex language with clarity, structure, and genuine enthusiasm makes each session both engaging and effective. He combines strong subject expertise with a thoughtful teaching approach, blending grammar, context, and cultural insight in a way that brings the language to life.
Vijay Gopal Varadarajan
Rishi has been a fantastic tutor for the GCSE in Sanskrit. His genuine passion to teach the language and his enthusiasm always shine through. He provides a focused and structured approach, enhancing it with his valuable reflections and insights gleaned through his personal study over many years. Truly grateful for the course.
Vinay S
Rishi is an exceptional Sanskrit teacher with a deep understanding of the subject, and he makes learning both engaging and enjoyable. He builds a strong foundation before introducing more advanced concepts, which makes the transition smooth and easy to follow. His knowledge of multiple languages adds valuable perspective, helping students connect Sanskrit with other languages.
Giri B
Rishi is an outstanding teacher with an incredible command of multiple languages. His ability to draw connections between Gujarati and Sanskrit for me was especially valuable, and it greatly enhanced my understanding and appreciation of both languages. Thanks to his guidance and support, I now feel confident and prepared to take the Sanskrit GCSE in less than a year — something that would normally take at least two years to achieve in a secondary school.
Keenal
Learning Sanskrit with Rishi has been one of the most enjoyable and rewarding experiences I've had. Rishi's storytelling, especially when explaining sandhi, brings the language to life in a way that makes even complex concepts feel intuitive. Ultimately, what truly shines through is his profound love for Sanskrit.
Aaron T
Why Study Sanskrit?
Sanskrit's precise grammatical structure improves analytical thinking, memory, and concentration—valuable skills for students, professionals, and lifelong learners.
Read the Vedas, Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, and classical literature in their original form, discovering subtleties lost in translation.
Deepen your yoga and meditation practice by understanding mantras, sutras, and philosophical concepts in their original language.
Gain authentic insights into Indian philosophy, literature, arts, and sciences that have influenced global thought for millennia.
The meditative aspect of Sanskrit study provides a valuable counterbalance to our fast-paced modern lifestyles.
About Your Teacher
Dr. Rishi Handa is a SOAS-educated Sanskrit instructor with over two decades of experience. He has developed a modern approach that makes this ancient language accessible to today's busy professionals. Having helped hundreds of students at all levels—from complete beginners to those preparing for IGCSE Sanskrit examinations—and having learned Sanskrit as an adult himself, Dr. Handa understands the challenges learners face and is passionate about making this ancient language accessible to all.
Email: sanskritwithrishi@gmail.com
Classes: Online sessions via Zoom, Mondays 7:30pm-9pm (UK time), with recordings provided for flexibility.
Join our next cohort and discover the rewards of learning this classical language
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