The study of South Asia, particularly modern India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, is an increasingly important area of academic inquiry. The region is home to more than a billion people — just over 23 percent of humanity. It is the site of some of the world‘s great civilizations. It contains two nuclear powers. And the South Asian diaspora constitutes one of the most successful minority communities in the United States. Recognizing the region's significance, Harvard University has launched a program that comprehensively examines South Asia's economy and culture by establishing a center of excellence in South Asian Studies.

All images copyright 2008 President and Fellows of Harvard College, Courtesy of the Arthur M. Sackler Museum, Harvard University.