Professor James Hegarty, a scholar of Sanskrit and Indian Religions at Cardiff University, emphasizes the multifaceted nature of India, arguing that the West shouldn’t reduce it to a single narrative, particularly one focused solely on spirituality. He shared his personal journey with IANS, highlighting how studying Sanskrit and Hinduism influenced his life and career.
He was particularly drawn to the complex character of Krishna in the Mahabharata, finding his dual nature as both man and god intriguing. He also expressed admiration for Gandhari, who embodies sacrifice and moral strength in the face of tragedy. He believes her unwavering adherence to dharma despite personal losses makes her a compelling and revered figure.
Professor Hegarty’s fascination with Indian literature and philosophy started early, influenced by his liberal grandparents and early exposure to Indian mythology and religion. He notes that he questioned the predominantly Western narratives he encountered in his education, seeking out non-Western perspectives.
He delves into the history of religions in South Asia, exploring how South Asians use religious texts, particularly stories, to understand themselves and their world. His research encompasses a wide range of religious traditions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhism, and Christianity.
His passion for the Mahabharata was ignited during his university studies. He found the text’s multi-layered storytelling, particularly the Draupadi disrobing sequence, captivating. It was then that he was convinced to study the epic in Sanskrit, a pivotal moment in his academic journey.
Professor Hegarty is a prolific author and researcher, with publications on Sanskrit, Pali, and vernacular sources, covering various South Asian religious traditions. His work also explores the history of Christianity in early South Asia and 19th-century missionary history.
