Removable heritage

Nalanda Mahavihara, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its outstanding universal value as a Buddhist monastic and scholastic institution, is often viewed through a colonial lens that isolates it from its broader cultural context. This study challenges such narrow interpretations by examining the symbiotic relationship between Nalanda's monastery, surrounding villages, and shrines, revealing a dynamic sacred sub-region with ongoing cultural exchange. Through an analysis of historical records and archaeological evidence, the research demonstrates that Nalanda cannot be understood in isolation but must be situated within present-day tourist and sacred networks to fully appreciate its significance.

Kulshreshtha, S. (2018). Removable heritage. Decolonising Heritage in South Asia, 129–155. https://doi.org/10.4324/9780429440380-6