A seminar titled “Interdisciplinary Approaches to South Asian Area Studies” was held at Peking University (PKU) on October 21, 2023. This event was co-hosted by PKU’s Research Center of Eastern Literature, School of Foreign Languages, and the Institute of Area Studies.

The seminar convened experts from elite institutions such as the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, Beijing Foreign Studies University, Shanghai International Studies University, Renmin University of China, University of International Relations and Communication University of China. Media representatives from Beijing Cultural Review, World Affairs, and thepaper.cn also attended. Central to the discussions was the project “Academic History Research on Overseas Studies of South Asian Regions.” This project, part of a competitive bidding program funded by PKU’s academic fund, examined the history of South Asian studies in key overseas countries, explored interdisciplinary teaching and research methods, and discussed the development of an independent knowledge system for South Asian studies.

The opening ceremony was chaired by Prof. Wang Dan, vice dean of the School of Foreign Languages and deputy director of the Institute of Area Studies. In his address, Prof. Chen Ming, dean of the School of Foreign Languages and director of the Research Center of Eastern Literature, emphasized the need for upholding traditional disciplines, fostering interdisciplinary learning, and nurturing new academic fields. Prof. Zhai Kun, deputy director of the Institute of Area Studies, extended his gratitude for the School of Foreign Languages’ enduring contributions to area and country studies and applauded the "Academic History Research on Overseas Studies of South Asian Regions" project team for their innovative work in interdisciplinary research and teaching. Assistant Professor Zhang Minyu outlined the interim achievements of the project, detailing its research foundation, key questions, methodology, and initial findings.

Associate Professor Zhang Jiamei from the Department of South Asian Studies steered the morning session, which delved into diverse perspectives on South Asian area studies. Associate Professor Saerji, director of the Department of South Asian Studies, shed light on the innovative approaches to area studies, drawing parallels with Harvard University's work in this field. Prof. Chen Jinying of Shanghai International Studies University underscored the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in deepening South Asian studies, especially from a political science angle. Associate Professor Fan Jingjing emphasized the significance of linking ancient and modern literature studies across different cultures, informed by her insights into domestic and international Sanskrit literature. Associate Research Fellow Wang Jing from the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences critically examined the interplay between global structures and knowledge systems, calling for a more focused and centered approach in area studies. Assistant Research Fellow Xu Juan presented a case study on India’s secular nationalism, highlighting the need for interdisciplinary methods in country-specific research.

The afternoon discussions, led by Associate Professor Fan Jingjing, featured an insightful presentation by Liu Jian, deputy director of the Institute of World History at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences. He underscored the current challenges in the study of ancient Indian history in China and highlighted the institute’s efforts in revitalizing this crucial research area. Zhang Jiamei shared her observations on the internal dynamics and productivity of South Asian studies. Associate Professor Sun Kai from the Department of French at the School of Foreign Languages detailed the evolution of Indology in France and the department’s role in promoting this field among students. Assistant Professor Chen Ruixuan advocated for integrating Japanese and French research in Indology into existing curriculum, particularly focusing on the study of ancient history.

The seminar concluded with a vibrant discussion session where scholars and experts exchanged views on sustaining and evolving academic traditions, drawing on interdisciplinary strengths, and shaping the future of South Asian area studies in the new era. The gathering reached a consensus on the importance of collaborative efforts in talent development, academic research, and the practical application of research findings.