The Department had its inception since the dawn of the college, 1945. Many renowned teachers have rendered yeomen service and contributed their might for the growth and development of the department. Dr. K Rajagopalachar served the institution from 1957 to 1989. He was The Principal of the college between 1984 and 1989. Besides, he also served as the Registrar of Mysore University.Being a scholar of great merit and a multi-faceted personality, he has made significant contributions to the Sanskrit studies through his valued writings on Champu Kavya, Meghadoota, Samskruta Bhasha Shastra and many others in Sanskrit, English, and Kannada languages. He has guided several candidates in their Ph.Dendeavors. He was a great sportsperson.

Prof. RajeevaLochana, an eminent scholar, translated tamil writing Palandu Stotra into English and Kannada. The faculty participate in designing curriculum, as resource persons.

Dr. Manjunatha Bhatta served the department of Sanskrit from 1984 to 2014. He headed the department from 1988 to 2014 during which time there were many activities conducted in the department. He was a popular theatre and Yakshagana artist who was awarded the prestigious Aryabhatta Award for Performing Arts. He also guided five students to receive their Ph.Ds from Bangalore University.

Presently, Dr. K R Kumudavalli, is heading the department.