Occult South Asia.

From the 19th to the 21st century

Workshop

 

Organizers:

Prof. Karl Baier (Department of Religious Studies, University of Vienna)
Mr. Mriganka Mukhopadhyay MA, (PhD candidate, Center for History of Hermetic Philosophy and Related Currents, University of Amsterdam)

Dates:  23rd-24th November, 2018

Venue:  Campus Aula, University of Vienna, Austria.

 

Concept Note

In the academic study of esoteric currents and occultism, the theme “India’’ has remained a strong undercurrent since the early days. There have been discussions around the concept of the "Mystic East" or “the Magic East” and its influence towards Western esotericism from the very beginning. In recent times approaches that emphasize the interaction of South Asian and foreign occult cultures in colonial and postcolonial times are of increased importance.

The workshop aims to contribute to a critical and nuanced understanding of

1. occult and esoteric currents and their practitioners in modern South Asia

2. the impact of South Asian ideas and practices on modern esoteric and occult currents on the global stage.

South Asia will thus be viewed as a theme as well as a site for the study of esotericism and occultism. Steps will be taken in establishing occult South Asia as a significant field in South Asian academic research.