From Emerson’s fascination with Hindu texts and Thoreau’s admiration of the Bhagavad Gita to the enthusiastic welcome that Americans have given to yoga, there have been far-reaching and enduring connections between the United States and the Hindu traditions.
Members of the Case Western Reserve University community can dive into the topic even more with a talk by Vasudha Narayanan, Distinguished Professor in the Department of Religion at the University of Florida.
Narayanan will present “From Cambodia to Cleveland: A Discussion of Global Hindu Traditions” Tuesday, Jan. 25, at 4:30 p.m. in Tinkham Veale University Center, Ballroom C.
Narayanan’s talk will look at three theaters: Southeast Asia at the turn of the first millennium CE, the United States during the 20th and 21st centuries, and briefly at the Caribbean. Focusing on temple architecture and performing arts, Narayanan will discuss Angkor Wat and other key sites in Southeast Asia; how temples are put together in the United States; and the significant ways in which North American Hindus “perform” their religious traditions.
The Department of Religious Studies will host Narayanan’s talk.
Significant increases in COVID-19 cases nationally and in our region require Case Western Reserve to enhance efforts to reduce transmission risks on campus. Masks must be worn indoors—preferably KN95s or at least surgical ones; cloth masks are strongly discouraged.
In addition, only those who are fully vaccinated (i.e., have received the booster, if eligible) should attend any campus event. Leaders continue to monitor pandemic developments and will adjust health protocols as circumstances warrant.