Raja Veda Kavya Patasala has a rich tradiiton of over half a millennia, in the field of vedic studies. Established in 1542 by Sri Govinda Deekshithar at
Kumbakonam, on the banks the River Cauvery, it provides instructions, orally, in the traditional 'gurukula' (boarding at the teacher's house) system of education.
Vedas and other scriptures are taught to students starting from 8 yr olds. Sanskrit, Tamil, English and Mathematics assist the students in their study. There are different proficiency levels for certification. The charitable A.V.M.G.D.P.S. Samithi that runs this institution offers these courses free of cost. Moreover, the students are also given free boarding, clothing, medical care and traveling expenses.