Archaeological intimacy and heritage publics: domesticating Buddhism in Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh
Abstract
Sites of Buddhist heritage in contemporary North India reflect diverse motivations and complex interests among various stakeholders and publics. This article highlights the modern construction of Sarnath as the site of Buddha’s first sermon, demonstrating how Buddhist heritage is shaped by state authorities and experienced by Indian visitors. Using the term ‘archaeological intimacy,’ we examine how remnants of Buddhist material culture shape the formation of identity and social relations at multiple levels, extending beyond normative religious claims and meanings associated with this popular pilgrimage site. We argue that previous scholarship and heritage regimes have often prioritised ‘canonical’ and ‘official’ state-sanctioned narratives, overlooking other meaningful social interactions and connections within the archaeological park itself.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Indian and Buddhist Studies
Anthropological Studies and Insights
South Asian Studies and Diaspora
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Religion
- Publisher
- Informa UK Limited
- Volume
- 56
- Issue
- 3
- Pages
- 444–468
- Publication date
- 2 February 2026
- Language
- EN