Karnataka Samskrit University has been formed exclusively for the development of Samskrit language. Samskrit has a hoary, glorious, scientific, literary, cultural tradition and heritage. Its contribution in the area of Prose, Poetry, Drama, Dance, Sculpture, Paintings, Fine arts, Medicines, Philosophy and other allied areas is far more extensive and lasting than has been realised by the Indian scholars till today.
The university was established in 2010 with great efforts by the Kanataka Government. The study of Samskrit language and literature was greatly encouraged by the kings of Mysore. There are 21 Samskrit colleges in Karnataka, including the Srimanmaharaja Samskrita Mahapathashala, which was established more than 150 years ago. There are also 354 Veda and Samskrita Pathashalas spread over the state. The Karnataka Samskrit University was established with the vision and mission of bringing these together under a single umbrella, maintaining uniformity in education, providing greater opportunities for study for students and teachers and to raise the standards in Samskrit research at National and International level.
The university currently includes 2 constituent Samskrit Colleges, 10 aided affiliated colleges and 9 unaided affiliated colleges under its ambit. It has established the Directorate of Samskrit Education, to take care of Pre-university education in Karnataka. The directorate includes 354 recognised Samskrita pathashalas throughout the state.