Devi: The Goddess and Her Many Forms

Throughout South Asia, the Goddess Devi is an important cultural and religious symbol in both Hindu and Buddhist communities. The variety of her forms, both wrathful and peaceful, underscores the dynamic nature of this figure. This lecture examines the roots of the goddess tradition in ancient India and the contemporary aspects of Devi’s worship, addressing…

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Buddhist Art and Pilgrimage

Shortly after the death of Buddha in the 5th century BCE, pilgrimage was promoted as a vital component of Buddhist practice and spiritual development. Subsequently, the art and architecture that developed at these sites have become intrinsic components of Buddhist visual culture. Utilizing objects in the permanent collection at the VMFA, this program examines the…

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