ABOUT US

The Asiatic Society is one of the oldest institutions of learning in India, established in the year 1784 at Kolkata by Sir William Jones. The foundation of the Society marked the beginning of systematic and organized research in Asian history, culture, languages, and sciences. Initially, the scope of the Society was limited to the geographical boundaries of Asia; however, over time, its objectives expanded to include a wide range of academic disciplines. The Society became a prominent center for intellectual exchange and scholarly activities, attracting renowned historians, orientalists, and researchers from across the world. Through its continuous efforts, the Asiatic Society played a vital role in rediscovering India’s ancient past and preserving its rich cultural heritage.

Over the centuries, the Asiatic Society has contributed significantly to the preservation of rare manuscripts, historical documents, and research publications. Its library remains one of the most valuable repositories of knowledge in the country. The Society has consistently supported research in humanities, sciences, archaeology, epigraphy, and classical languages while adapting to modern academic requirements. It has organized lectures, seminars, and scholarly discussions to promote the dissemination of knowledge. Even today, the Asiatic Society continues to uphold its founding ideals by encouraging research, nurturing young scholars, and serving as a symbol of India’s long-standing intellectual and scholarly traditions.