Chapter 10 of the Class 10 NCERT Sanskrit textbook Shemushi is titled अन्योक्तयः, which refers to indirect expressions or allegorical sayings. This chapter brings a fresh twist to the Sanskrit syllabus, as it moves away from stories and instead focuses on proverbs or wise sayings that carry deeper meanings hidden behind simple imagery. These sayings use symbols from nature, animals, or daily life to convey lessons about human behaviour, morality, and practical wisdom.
I chose to write about this chapter because it’s unique compared to the rest of the Shemushi book. It doesn’t just teach Sanskrit—it teaches us how people in ancient India creatively used metaphors and similes to explain life lessons. In today’s fast-paced world, we often overlook this style of communication. But अन्योक्तयः reminds us how powerful and beautiful indirect speech can be. I also find this chapter to be a good source of revision material, especially for translation practice and understanding literary devices in Sanskrit.
What are अन्योक्तयः?
The word अन्योक्तिः means “indirect speech” or “allegory.” In this chapter, various श्लोक (verses) present messages about life, duty, and ethics using symbolic language. Each verse says one thing but means another. This makes it a very rich and thought-provoking chapter.
Some examples of indirect expression in this chapter include:
- A bee moving from flower to flower teaches us about people who are never satisfied with what they have.
- A deer being attracted to music and losing its life shows how over-indulgence in pleasures can lead to harm.
- A frog sitting calmly near a snake’s mouth highlights how ignorance of danger can be fatal.
These verses are not just for reading—they’re for reflecting. Each one invites the student to think and interpret.
Why this Chapter is Worth Studying
- Sharpens interpretative thinking through indirect meanings
- Helps improve vocabulary related to nature and living beings
- Develops skills to translate poetry into logical messages
- Teaches moral values and real-world lessons in a subtle way
- Introduces poetic techniques like simile (उपमा) and metaphor (रूपक)
Download PDF
Click below to download the official NCERT Shemushi Chapter 10 PDF – अन्योक्तय
















