India: Himalayan Myths and Reality – Institute for Field Research

Location: Jong Village Rd, Katrain, Himachal Pradesh 175129, India

Season: July 18, 2022 to August 17, 2022

Application Deadline: June 1, 2022

Deadline Type: Rolling

Website: https://ifrglobal.org/program/india-himalaya/

Program Type:
Field School

RPA Certified:
No

Affiliation:
Institute for Field Research, Connecticut College, UCLA, IISER, Mohali, Punjab, India

Project Director:
Dr. Sonali Gupta-argawal, Dr. Parth Chauhan

Project Description:

Historical archaeology studies material culture with the aid of historical records. Written records contextualize materiality but may or may not corroborate archaeological evidence. Kullu valley lies in the heart of the Himalayas in the hill state of Himachal Pradesh and is rich in archaeological sites and historical records relating to the sites. The valley is a focal point for many ancient myths in the Himalayas. As texts were frequently revised and chronologically problematic, an assessment of myths and their reality cannot be done on the basis of textual sources alone. There is an absence of early historic excavated sites in the valley, therefore, a historical archaeology and applied anthropological approach is useful for the study of religious art, architecture, oral traditions within the context of the landscape. Such an approach aids in evaluating the manifestation of myths and their reality in the Kullu valley.

The research goals aim at understanding the role of myths in the Kullu valley and how they influence architecture, rituals and use of space. The project will also help understand the interaction of contemporary people with sacred sites in the Himalayas where such myths are depicted and form a part of their daily life.

Period(s) of Occupation: Ethnography & Historical Archaeology

Project Size: 1-24 participants

Minimum Length of Stay for Volunteers: Participants are required to stay for the full duration of the field school.

Minimum Age: 18

Experience Required: No prior experience is required to participate in this field school.

Room and Board Arrangements:
The housing facilities are comfortable. The location is nestled in Naggar a beautiful town home to the famous Nicholas Roerich Trust. The property is bounded by Himalayan cedar and fruit trees. Students will be housed in dorm styled rooms where each room can accommodate four individuals. The floor has internet connectivity, a common kitchen with tea facility, a vast study and lecture area, fire pit, outside terraced area and hot water in the common bathrooms. Bedding will be provided. Breakfast, lunch and dinner on work days will be served in the common dining area at designated hours. The cooks are equipped to cook a variety of food options both vegetarian and non-vegetarian, local and international cuisine and can easily accommodate vegans or lactose intolerant meals. The cooks would need to know dietary restrictions and preferences beforehand to accommodate diets. Beef is the only item which will not be provided. Tuesdays being days off, students may order reasonably priced food at the facility. Laundry services are available at nominal cost. The local market and cafes are located at walking distance with beautiful hikes and trails nearby.

Academic Credit:
8 Semester Credits credits offered by Connecticut College. Tuition is $4,330.