Divyakala brings to you a course collaboration that delves deep into Sanskrit Calligraphy. Akshara taught by Jayant Silva
Enrollments opening soon
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Enrollments opening soon 〰️
Divyakala's first course collaboration brings calligrapher and artist Jayant Silva to teach Siddham — one of the most beautiful of the historical Indian scripts.
In this five-session course, we will explore Sanskrit Calligraphy via Siddham script letterforms through close observation, demonstration and practice.
We will look closely at how the broad-edged pen creates a letter—its strokes, curves, proportions and spaces—and learn to understand the relationship between tool, movement and form.
Beginning with individual letterforms, we will gradually move towards combinations, conjunct forms and composition. Examples from other Indian scripts will also show how the principles learned through Siddham can be applied more broadly.
No previous experience in calligraphy or knowledge of Sanskrit is required.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Yes. The course is suitable for beginners, and no previous experience in calligraphy or knowledge of Sanskrit is required.
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You will learn to use a broad-edged pen, understand how Siddham letterforms are constructed, write letters and conjunct forms, and explore spacing and composition. Most importantly, you will learn how to see and analyse a calligraphic form, rather than simply copy it.
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The course focuses on Siddham—arguably the most beautiful of all Indian scripts. This historical Indic script was used for writing Sanskrit and has a rich calligraphic tradition that continues in parts of Asia today.
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Siddham is studied in depth. Examples from other Indian scripts will also be shown to demonstrate how the principles learned through Siddham can be applied to other forms of calligraphy.
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The principles can be applied to Siddham, other Indian scripts and your own artistic practice. The aim is to give you the skills to analyse unfamiliar letterforms and continue learning independently.
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The kit includes the specialist tools and references required for the workshop:
Broad-edged calligraphy nibs
Pen holders
Printed Siddham reference sheets
Everyday stationery, paper and ink can be sourced locally.
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You will need black ink, suitable paper, a pencil or mechanical pencil, an eraser and a ruler. Some larger sheets of paper will also be required for composition exercises. A detailed materials list will be sent to you on joining the course.
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Akshara is priced at 15,000 INR or $ 160 as an early bird registration until the 8th of October, 2026. The allows us to send the Calligraphy kits timely before the course commences.
After the 8th of October, the course price will increase to 16,000 INR or $180. The additional cost will go towards speed post and express shipping charges.