Researching South Asia

Promoting high-quality, interdisciplinary research to better understand South Asia’s past, present, and future.

Knowledge That Matters

Connecting research with policy and society through collaboration, dialogue, and public engagement.

About Us

At the South Asia Research and Information Institute (SARII), our mission is to generate and share evidence-based insights that deepen understanding of South Asian societies, cultures, and development dynamics. We pursue rigorous research, analysis, and thoughtful dialogue to inform policy, strengthen academic discourse, and support community engagement. We collaborate with scholars, institutions, and stakeholders to produce reliable research outputs, foster interdisciplinary knowledge exchange, and expand access to information that empowers decision-making and social progress. Through conferences, publications, outreach programs, and capacity-building initiatives, we aim to bridge gaps between research and practice and contribute meaningfully to sustainable, inclusive development in the South Asian region and beyond.

SARII Articles

On the Date of Bhavatrata, the Jaiminiya Commentator — Read More

Hagiography Versus History: The Tamil Panar in Bhakti-Oriented Hagiographic Texts and Inscriptions — Read More

Beyond Technology: The Indian Institutes of Technology and Humanities and Social Sciences Education in India — Read More

SARII Events

October 1, 2016 – The Legacy of Buddhism in South Asia: Disruption, Propagation, and Accommodation

Read More

October 10, 2015 – Transformations in the Temples of South India: People, Rituals, and Deities

Read More

July 4, 2015 – Tamil Music and Musicians

Read More

September 6, 2014 – Affirmative Action in Higher Education in India

Read More

Other Events

Harvard Yenching Institute

Read More

S.Palaniappan’s Interview in the Times of India

Read More

SARII News

Harvard Yenching Workshop on May 5th and 6th, 2017

Read More

10th century Jain bas-relief discovered

Read More

Jaina treasure trove in Mankulam village

Read More