M. A. (Hindu Studies)

M. A. (Hindu Studies)

(This programme will be conducted in offline mode.)

Programme details for Academic year 2025-2026

Commencement Date: 14th July 2025
Days: Monday to Friday 
Timing: 10.00 a.m. to 2.00 p.m.
(Sometimes lectures of the elective papers can be held on other timings)

 

Hinduism is a very unique tradition that does not have one philosophy, one god or one practice that becomes the basis of its identity. It is an ancient tradition that grows over time to incorporate diverse beliefs and practices. Its profound influence on everyday life on the Indian subcontinent leads to it being defined as a way of life. The MA Hindu Studies syllabus takes an interdisciplinary approach and seeks to establish a strong foundation for further research.

Some of the key aspects of teaching-learning are:

  • Appreciating the diversity in the tradition by framing the curriculum in historical, socio-cultural, philosophical, and textual perspectives
  • Exploring the inter-relation between text and practice
  • Exploring formative debates, both within the tradition and with those who belonged to other religious traditions
  • Exploring the impact of aspects such as faith, which resonated deeply with common people, on movements that forged new paradigms
  • Explore the various manifestations of the tradition in modern times, including in diaspora

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Key Information

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Admission Details

Eligibility

1. Graduation in any discipline with minimum of 55%

2. Exceptional candidates with a score lower than 55% may be considered, based on an interview.

Pedagogy

The teaching-learning will occur largely in lecture format but students will also do site visits to understand the historical and art historical aspects; workshops on various religious dimensions, such as rituals and Vedic chanting, would form an important part of engagement. Throughout the two-year period, the pedagogy will also ensure that students are equipped with methodological tools that help them frame questions for research.

Curriculum

 
 
Semester I Semester II
Defining Hinduism Sects of Hinduism
Sources of Hinduism Key concepts in Hinduism
Sanskrit Language – I Sanskrit Language – II
Elective Elective
Cultural History of Ancient India - I Myths, Symbols and Iconography
Upaniṣads Critique and Reform of the Religion
Outline of Systems of Indian Philosophy - I Outline of Systems of Indian Philosophy - II
Workshop Workshop

For detail Curriculum please refer below link

First Year Curriculum
 Second Year Curriculum

Differentiators

Our institute has been leading the field of religious studies in Mumbai and indeed in Maharashtra by developing rigorous programmes that include languages skills, textual study, philosophy and art and architecture. The faculty of our institute bring to bear our considerable experience as well as the diverse nature of our specialisations to a unique curriculum.

The MA (Hindu Studies) programme offers students the possibility of exploring their interest in the historical development of the tradition, textual study, philosophy and art and architecture. Language skills are built into the curriculum, with Sanskrit as a compulsory audit course.

The K J Somaiya Institute of Dharma Studies has a library with over 30,000 books, which is an important resource

The K J Somaiya Institute of Dharma Studies regularly organises special lectures, seminars and workshops on different themes in areas of Religion, Culture and Philosophy. In addition, there are field trips to heritage sites. This offers students opportunities to meet students of other disciplines in informal learning forums which is an unmatched experience.

Programme Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the programme, the student will have a clear understanding of:

  • The sources of Hindu tradition
  • The various religious and spiritual practices that form the basis of Hindu life
  • The cultural manifestations of this tradition in literature, art and architecture
  • The impact of patronage
  • Debates and reform
  • Hinduism today

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