Computational Aspects in Sanskrit

Introduction

• The mechanism in Ashtadhyayi is: take a word (a base), add a suffix, and apply rules.
• This methodology is similar to many computational concepts.

Panini's Computational Concepts

• Examine the computational concepts that Panini used in Ashtadhyayi approximately 2800 years ago.

Computer Languages vs. Panini

• Computer languages are formal with their own vocabulary and syntax.
• Instructions are given as algorithms or programs.
• Panini's grammar shares many of these characteristics.
• Similar ideas of today could be found in Panini's grammar, because that is how whole Sanskrit language is sort of put together

Paninian Approach: Mapping to Computational Concepts

• The Paninian approach to Linguistics and Sanskrit grammar maps to certain computational concepts.

List of Computational Features

• Exclusive Syntax:

  • Panini uses an exclusive syntax for Ashtadhyayi.
  • Certain conventions must be followed for Ashtadhyayi to make sense.

• Exclusive Vocabulary:

  • A vocabulary is specifically meant for Panini's work.
  • Terms like 'tip' and 'mat' have specific meanings.

• Abbreviated Forms and Mnemonics:

  • Abbreviated forms and mnemonics are used for brevity and better retention of ideas.

• Algorithmic Approach to Word Generation:

  • Takes a strictly algorithmic approach to word generation.
  • Sometimes uses recursive logic.

Amenability for Machine Coding and NLP

• These aspects make Sanskrit easily amenable for machine coding and current-day applications such as Natural Language Processing (NLP).
• The greater these features are in a language, the greater the possibility of using the language structure, syntax, and grammatical foundations for NLP.

Sanskrit as an Attractive Option

• Sanskrit offers a very attractive option because it has all these features. Therefore, sanskrit as a language to be studied and spoken holds immense importance.