Dr. Benjamin Fleming

Dr. Benjamin Fleming (b. 1967) is an accomplished author and scholar whose work explores the rich tapestry of South Asian religious history, focusing on Hindu and Buddhist pilgrimage, manuscript studies, and the material culture of Asian religions. With over 20 years of experience in research and writing, Dr. Fleming’s contributions to the academic world have deepened our understanding of sacred traditions and their historical and cultural contexts.

Dr. Fleming holds a Ph.D. in Social Sciences from McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. His academic journey includes a prestigious post-doctoral fellowship in South Asian Studies at the University of Pennsylvania, where he also served as a cataloger of Sanskrit manuscripts for seven years. This role allowed him to delve into the intricate worlds of ancient texts, shaping his expertise in the field. For nearly two decades, he has taught courses on Asian religions and religious studies in Philadelphia and New York, sharing his passion for history with students and fellow scholars alike.

Throughout his career, Dr. Fleming has been recognized for his scholarly achievements. He received a grant from the Endangered Archives Programme of the British Library for his groundbreaking project, “The Rāmamālā Manuscript Library Project,” which safeguarded invaluable manuscripts. His doctoral research was supported by a Social Science and Humanities Research Fellowship (SSHRC) from the Canadian government, further enabling his impactful studies.

Dr. Fleming’s published works reflect the depth and breadth of his expertise. His notable publications include the book “Material Culture in Asian Religions: Text, Image, Object” (London: Routledge Publishers, 2014), which examines the interplay of textual, visual, and material traditions in Asian religions. His articles, such as “Renegotiating Sectarian Space through the Realia and Monasteries of Early Medieval Bengal” (Journal of Hindu Studies, 2021) and “Making Land Sacred: Inscriptional Evidence for Buddhist Kings and Brahmin Priests in Medieval Bengal” (Numen, 2013), are widely regarded as essential contributions to the field.

Currently, Dr. Fleming is engaged in several fascinating projects, including the history of the manuscripts of the Śiva Purāṇa tradition and their connection to the twelve Jyotirliṅgas of India. He is also delving into the bilingualism of Sanskrit and Bangla manuscripts in Bangladesh and studying Buddhist and Hindu pilgrimage practices across India and Bangladesh.

For aspiring authors, Dr. Fleming offers valuable advice: “As historians, we should keep steadfast to the evidence of primary material. However, when possible, be open to writing in more than one style or genre. Allow yourself the freedom to explore beyond your individual training and be receptive to unlikely or unexpected opportunities for inspiration.”

Dr. Fleming’s work exemplifies the power of rigorous research coupled with creative exploration. His dedication to preserving and interpreting the historical and spiritual heritage of South Asia has cemented his place as a leading voice in the field. Whether through his scholarly publications or his ongoing projects, Dr. Benjamin Fleming continues to illuminate the enduring legacy of religion and culture in South Asia.