The third chapter of the NCERT Class 10 Sanskrit book Shemushi is titled शिशुलालनम् (Shishulalanam), which translates to “Child Care” or “The Nurturing of a Child.” This lesson captures the tender emotions and affection between a mother and her child. It is a beautiful poem that portrays the innocence of a baby and the joy, love, and patience involved in raising a child. Through rhythmic verses, it expresses how the bond between mother and child is filled with affection, playfulness, and constant care.
I am writing about this chapter because it holds a special emotional and moral value that every student can relate to. In a world that often moves too fast, Shishulalanam gently reminds us of the purity of motherhood and the unconditional love a parent feels. It also gives students a chance to appreciate ancient Sanskrit literature, where even everyday human emotions are described poetically. Understanding this chapter not only helps students score well in exams but also helps them connect emotionally with classical Sanskrit poetry, which celebrates the beauty of human relationships.
About Shemushi Chapter 3: शिशुलालनम्
The poem शिशुलालनम् is written in a lyrical and simple form that reflects a mother’s joy in nurturing her child. It focuses on small, affectionate moments—how a mother plays with her child, feeds them, and soothes them when they cry. The language of the poem is musical, and it paints a lively picture of love and motherhood. The chapter also helps students understand how classical Sanskrit poets captured emotions that are still universal today.
Main Theme and Message
The central idea of Shishulalanam is the mother’s selfless affection and her constant care for her child. The poem highlights that for a mother, her child is the source of both joy and responsibility. It celebrates the natural bond between parent and child that goes beyond time, culture, or words.
Key Points from the Chapter
- The chapter describes a mother’s tender emotions while caring for her infant.
- It reflects the beauty of motherhood and family life through poetic language.
- The story symbolises unconditional love, patience, and devotion.
- It teaches compassion, understanding, and respect for parents’ efforts.
- The Sanskrit verses use simple vocabulary, making them easy to memorise.
Important Sanskrit Words and Meanings
| Sanskrit Word | English Meaning |
|---|---|
| शिशु (Shishu) | Child / Baby |
| लालनम् (Lalanam) | Nurturing / Caring |
| मातृ (Maatru) | Mother |
| स्नेह (Sneha) | Affection / Love |
| हास (Haasa) | Smile / Laughter |
By learning these key words, students can easily understand the flow of the poem and its emotional tone.
NCERT Class 10 Sanskrit Shemushi Chapter 3 PDF Download
Students can download the NCERT Class 10 Sanskrit Shemushi Chapter 3: शिशुलालनम् PDF from here.


















