The Department of Sanskrit was established in the year 1963. Eminent Indologist and Sanskrit scholar Prof. H. D. Velankar was the first R. G. Bhandarkar Professor and Head of the Department. This Chair of Professor of the Department of Sanskrit is named after the veteran Sanskrit scholar, academician and social reformer Sir R. G. Bhandarkar.

The Department is engaged in teaching and research pertaining to Sanskrit Language and Literature. It has well-experienced teaching faculty which undertakes research activities in their respective field of research as well as popularizes Sanskrit amongst masses through programme like Simple Sanskrit Speaking Classes sponsored by the University Grants Commission. The motto of the Departments is,  'संस्कृतं जनाय  '- Sanskrit for All. The Department participates in various research activities under the University with Potential for Excellence Schemes.

Department of Mumbai University has successfully completed its huge project of Sanskrit Bhavan. Now Sanskrit department has its own building named after the renowned industrialist and philanthropist Late Shri Ramakrishna Bajaj, which is well-equipped with facilities for teaching and research. Donation of 1.25 crores is given by Shri Shekhar Bajaj, CMD, Bajaj Electricals Bajaj group which is well known for dedication and philanthropist commitment