MEERUT: Chand Bibi, 21, had started learning Urdu at a very young age through religious texts at home under the tutelage of her parents. However, she was always curious about other religious texts, especially the Vedas. “I wanted to

and Hindu religion. I knew Urdu but wanted to learn

too, and hence took up the subject for graduation and post-graduation. Over these years, I have learnt how Sanskrit is unique in its self, and also got an opportunity to learn about another religion,” said Chand, an MA Sanskrit student at Ismail Degree College here. She is not the only one here.

At least 151 students out the total 398 enrolled for graduation and post-graduation in Sanskrit are from

. Here, the girls are breaking stereotypes and taking up Sanskrit despite the taboo among Muslims studying the language of the Vedas.

While some believe that the knowledge about Vedas helps them understand other religions better, others had something else to offer. “Not only does Sanskrit add as an extra language in our CV, it also helps in competitive exams because questions related to Vedas are often asked. Hence, my sister persuaded me to take up the course,” said Rumana Saifi, 19, a BA second-year student. Knowledge of Sanskrit has also enabled her to read and understand the original works of literary master like Kalidas and others.

The number of Muslim students, teachers said, who have opted for Sanskrit has gone up over the years and they have excelled. “In 2014, and earlier too,

have topped the batch. However, the number of students has gone up gradually. I believe that is happening because people have stopped linking religion with studies. Minority community is not only taking up the subject but also scoring well,” said Neelima Gupta, principal, Ismail Degree College.

“I like the language very much. Initially, it seemed difficult, but over time, I have started liking it. I plan to become a teacher after completing the course,” said Shaheen,19, a BA Sanskrit student.