I am Ishani Sinha, a scholar and researcher specializing in Asian Art, Archaeology, and Buddhist Studies. Currently, I am in the third year of my doctoral journey at Nav Nalanda Mahavihara, an esteemed institution under the Ministry of Culture, Government of India. My research primarily explores Buddhism’s profound heritage in Bihar, India, focusing on the archaeology of Buddhism, particularly Stupa Architecture.
My academic journey includes a Post Graduate Diploma in Asian Art from the School of Oriental and Asian Studies, University of London, and a Diploma in Heritage Management & Scientific Conservation from Deccan College Postgraduate and Research Institute, Pune.
My hands-on experience includes volunteering at prestigious institutions such as the British Museum and the Ashmolean Museum in the UK, where I engaged in hands-on programs and visitor engagement. I also served as an Exhibition Assistant at HQS Wellington in London and participated in the Rakhigarhi excavation with the Archaeological Survey of India as an on-site archaeologist and researcher.
Beyond academia, I actively contributed to cultural preservation and promotion. I held significant roles at the Asiatic Society for Social Science Research in New Delhi, organizing international conferences, facilitating international Memoranda of Understanding, and managing interns.
My skill set encompasses architectural analysis, object handling, content creation, and academic writing, with proficiency in software suites like G suites, MS Suites, and Adobe Photoshop.
My research contributions include publications on topics like Stupa Architecture, archaeological structures, art interpretation, and heritage conservation. I recently participated in the UKABS and SEAMEO SPAFA conference, contributing to the academic discourse in my field and have around 8 more publications.
As I continue my academic journey, I look forward to delving deeper into the world of Asian art and archaeology, enriching our understanding of this vibrant and diverse cultural heritage.
Current Research:
My academic journey centers on South Asian art and archaeology, particularly Buddhist studies. I’ve published, presented, and lectured in this field.
In one significant publication with K. P. Tucunan, we explored resemblances between Kesariya and Borobudur Stupa, emphasizing Buddhist heritage’s interconnectedness across regions. This work earned recognition as the “Best Paper” in the IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science in 2021.
I researched terracotta plaques from early historical periods found during Vaishali’s Raha Vishala Ka Garh excavations, shedding light on ancient artistry and culture.
My study of evolving Buddhist Stupa Architecture, with a focus on recent East Indian excavations, showcased dynamic architectural traditions.
My M.Phil thesis, funded by ICHR, was “Kesariya Stupa: A Landmark in Buddhist Architecture.” My current PhD research explores the Archaeology of Buddhism in Bihar.
I also presented a guest lecture, “Buddhism in Bihar: An Overview,” to Sri Jaywardenepura University students in Pune. This opportunity allowed me to share South Asian art and archaeology expertise, fostering cross-cultural dialogue and academic exchange.
My research reflects a commitment to unraveling South Asian art, archaeology, and Buddhist heritage, preserving cultural legacies.
Areas of Study:
Art History, archaeology, Ancient South east Asia and Buddhist material culture