Sanskrit evam Paali Sahitya main Baal Sahitya ka Vishleshanatmak Adhyayan evam Dr Nagesh Pandey 'Sanjay' ka Yogdan

Today, not only in the field of children’s literature writing but also in many seminars, this question has become a topic of discussion: should children be given modern children’s literature, or should values be instilled in them through the traditional literary heritage? Interestingly, many renowned scholars of Hindi children’s literature—who claim to be its messiahs—are not even willing to acknowledge the existence of children’s literature prior to the Bhartendu era. These left-leaning thinkers fail to perceive even a glimpse of children’s literature in the mantras of the Vedas, in the narrative traditions of the Upanishads, or even in the courageous story of Nachiketa in the Kathopanishad.

Modern research considers Vedic literature to be part of a scientific tradition. The rejuvenation of Sage Chyavana, for instance, is seen as a symbol of advanced scientific practices akin to today’s plastic surgery. Numerous such scientific descriptions are present in the Vedas and the Upanishads, from which children of that time could derive education and inspiration.

Sanskrit literature is regarded as the starting point of Indian literature, and beginning with the Vedas, the form of contemporary children’s literature has gradually evolved. In the present research paper, quotations from the Vedas, the Mahabharata, the Ramayana, and other Sanskrit texts have been used to understand the framework of children’s literature across different historical periods. The development and creation of children’s literature in various languages have also been discussed, including references to Pali, Prakrit, and Apabhramsha.

Through children’s literature, efforts have been made to promote important values within human society. This research paper attempts to show that children’s literature is not merely a means of entertainment; it is also an important medium for children’s development, education, and moral strengthening. It introduces the diversity of languages, cultural traditions, and historical periods, all of which are significant in fostering a rich and culturally vibrant society.