NCERT Class 9 Sanskrit Sharada: Chapter 8 — अष्टम: पाठ:
This chapter, "From Food to Bliss" (अन्नाद् आनन्दं प्रति), from the NCERT Class 9 Sanskrit textbook 'Sharada', introduces the significance of Upanishadic literature and dialogues. It focuses on a conversation between father Varuna and son Bhrigu, inspired by the Taittiriya Upanishad's concept of Panchakoshas for holistic development. Bhrigu undertakes severe penance to understand Brahman, the ultimate reality. Initially, he concludes that food (Anna) is Brahman, as life, strength, intellect, and well-being originate from it. The chapter emphasizes respecting food, considering it the best of all medicines, and consuming it with a divine perspective. It encourages continued effort and penance to attain higher knowledge, highlighting the importance of food as the foundation for all existence and spiritual growth.
Quick info
| Board | CBSE / NCERT |
|---|---|
| Class | Class 9 |
| Subject | Sanskrit |
| Book | Sharada |
| Chapter | Chapter 8 — अष्टम: पाठ: |
| Language | Sanskrit |
| PDF type | NCERT Textbook |
| Session | CBSE 2026 |
| Reading time | 2 minutes |
| Word count | 318 |
Learning outcomes
- Understand the importance of Upanishadic literature and dialogues.
- Learn about the father-son dialogue between Varuna and Bhrigu.
- Recognize food as a fundamental element for life and well-being.
- Appreciate the concept of penance (tapas) in the pursuit of knowledge.
- Understand the significance of respecting and consuming food appropriately.
Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| उपनिषत्-साहित्यस्य | of Upanishadic literature |
| ज्ञानप्रदाः | knowledge-giving |
| संवादा: | dialogues |
| पञ्चकोषाणां | of the five sheaths |
| आत्मविकासं | self-development |
| ब्रह्मज्ञानाय | for the knowledge of Brahman |
| जिज्ञासा | curiosity, desire to know |
| सञ्चाल्यते | is operated/managed |
| उपदिशतु | please instruct |
| अनवेषणं | search, investigation |
| तपसैव | only by penance |
| ज्येष्ठम् | eldest, greatest |
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Practice questions
- भृगुः पितरं प्रति किं निवेदयति? Answer: भृगुः पितरं प्रति ब्रह्मविषये जिज्ञासां निवेदयति।
- वरुणः ब्रह्मज्ञानाय कस्य उपदेशं ददाति? Answer: वरुणः ब्रह्मज्ञानाय तपसः उपदेशं ददाति।
- भृगुः तपसा किम् ज्ञातवान्? Answer: भृगुः तपसा अन्नं वै ब्रह्म इति ज्ञातवान्।
- अन्नं किं इति उच्यते? Answer: अन्नं भूतानां ज्येष्ठं सर्वौषधं इति उच्यते।
- अन्नं कथं सेवितव्यम्? Answer: अन्नं ईश्वरबुद्ध्या, सात्त्विकं हितकारकं च सेवितव्यम्।
Frequently asked questions
What is the main theme of NCERT Class 9 Sanskrit Chapter 8?
The chapter focuses on the Upanishadic dialogue between Varuna and Bhrigu, emphasizing the significance of food (Anna) as Brahman and the importance of penance (tapas) for knowledge.
Which Upanishad is referenced in this chapter?
The chapter references the Taittiriya Upanishad, particularly its concept of Panchakoshas for life development.
What did Bhrigu initially conclude about Brahman?
After penance, Bhrigu initially concluded that food (Anna) is Brahman, as all life and sustenance originate from it.
What is the importance of food according to the chapter?
Food is considered the greatest of all beings and the best medicine, essential for life, strength, and well-being.
How should food be consumed?
Food should be consumed with a divine perspective (Ishwarabuddhya), as a sattvic and beneficial offering.
What is the ultimate goal of Bhrigu's quest?
Bhrigu's quest is to understand Brahman, the ultimate reality that sustains the universe.
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NCERT Class 9 Sanskrit — Sharada — Chapter 8 — अष्टम: पाठ:. Verified by NCERT Help Editorial Team. Reviewed on 29 Jul 2026. Last updated 10 Aug 2026.