An illuminating biography reconstructing the life and legacy of a unique king in world history and the most famous emperor in South Asian history
Patrick Olivelle Book order
Patrick Olivelle is Emeritus Professor of Sanskrit and Indian Religions at the University of Texas at Austin. His scholarship delves into the study of ancient Indian texts and religious traditions, emphasizing their historical and philosophical contexts. Olivelle's research illuminates crucial aspects of Indian culture and thought. His contributions to the academic understanding of Indian religions are significant, and his publications serve as valuable resources for further study.





- 2024
- 2018
The Law Code Of Viṣṇu: A Critical Edition and Annotated Translation of the Vaiṣṇava-Dharmaśāstra
- 604 pages
- 22 hours of reading
The legal treatise of Viṣṇu, known as the Viṣṇu Smṛti, is situated in Kashmir and dated to the seventh century CE, with insights drawn from its iconographic details. Composed by a scholar from the Kāṭhaka Branch of the Yajur Veda and a follower of the Vaiṣṇava Pañcarātra tradition, this critical edition reveals the unique aspects of Hindu law and religious practice. It stands out as the sole legal text that offers profound insights into the intersection of law and spirituality within its historical context.
- 2011
Language, Texts, and Society
Explorations in Ancient Indian Culture and Religion
- 420 pages
- 15 hours of reading
Focusing on the exploration of historical context, this collection compiles a decade's worth of research papers by Patrick Olivelle. Each study delves into the meanings and developments concealed within words and texts, offering insights into their significance and evolution over time.
- 2011
Focusing on Indian ascetical institutions and ideologies, this collection compiles Patrick Olivelle's scholarly papers from the past three decades. It offers insights into the historical and cultural significance of ascetic practices in India, showcasing Olivelle's extensive research and contributions to the understanding of these spiritual traditions. The volume serves as a comprehensive resource for those interested in the complexities of Indian philosophy and religious life.