Archana Venkatesan discusses the importance of ancient poetry and her research on as the Alvars, which translates to “those who are immersed in god.” This type of "slow study" resonates with students who, in current times, don't get to do much of it anymore.
The Department of Religion, Culture and Society in the College of Letters and Science at UC Davis is now accepting graduate applications for the 2026-2027 academic year. The admitted scholars will be the first cohort in the newly announced master’s program.
Hinduism’s Diwali, or “Festival of Lights,” is California’s newest state holiday. Scholars from the Department of Religion, Culture and Society in the College of Letters and Science at UC Davis explain its significance.
A scholar of South Indian religions, Archana Venkatesan explains the deep symbolism and the many meanings of the kamala, or lotus, which are shared by different faith traditions in the subcontinent.
