Anthropology
Established in 1964, our department underwent a significant shift in focus on Medical Anthropology after Professor William S. Sax became the head in 2000. This change has established us as a notable center for the study of Medical Anthropology in South Asia within Europe.
Our research covers India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, and Central Asia, reflecting our commitment to understanding the cultures of these regions. Beyond Medical Anthropology, our department engages in a broad range of subjects that include:
- Studies on caste systems and marginalized communities
- Exploration of oral traditions
- Analysis of performance
- Examination of religious practices and pilgrimage
- Investigations of statehood and geopolitical boundaries
- Studies of migration and political structures
Our teaching encompasses a range of interdisciplinary courses, supporting comprehensive programs including the Master of Arts in Health and Society in South Asia (MAHASSA), alongside Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Anthropology and South Asian Studies.
We prioritize immersive field research, encouraging deep engagement with local communities to deepen our understanding and enhance our educational offerings. Essential to this immersive approach is language proficiency, and to this end, we provide a diverse array of South Asian language courses to equip our students with the necessary linguistic skills.
