"Indology, also known as South Asian studies, is the academic study of the history and cultures, languages, and literature of the Indian subcontinent."
Studies the history, cultures, religions, and politics of the South Asian region.
History of South Asia: The study of the historical background of South Asia including its multiple territorial phases, geographic extent, political systems, cultural traditions and economic indicators.
Religions in South Asia: The study of major religions practiced in South Asia such as Hinduism, Islam, Sikhism, Jainism, Buddhism and Christianity along with their existing and historical practices.
Politics and Governance in South Asia: The study of the political systems, government structures, electoral politics, regional and international relations and social policies that shape countries and cities in the South Asian region.
Economics and Development in South Asia: The study of economic policies, development indicators, regional commerce and trade, as well as the cultural impact on economic growth in South Asian societies.
Social Structures and Caste System in South Asia: The study of social structures such as caste system, gender relations, familial structures, ethnicity, and power dynamics in South Asian societies.
Literature and Arts in South Asia: The study of the cultural and artistic creation and manifestations of South Asian communities including literature, visual arts, performing arts and cinema.
Education System in South Asia: The study of the education systems, policies, institutions, access and attainment issues, and impact on societies in the South Asian region.
Environmental Issues in South Asia: The study of environmental challenges including climate change, pollution, deforestation, natural resource depletion and their impact on the environment in South Asian countries.
"The term Indology (in German, Indologie) is often associated with German scholarship, and is used more commonly in departmental titles in German and continental European universities than in the anglophone academy."
"In the Netherlands, the term Indologie was used to designate the study of Indian history and culture in preparation for colonial service in the Dutch East Indies."
"Classical Indology majorly includes the linguistic studies of Sanskrit literature, Pāli and Tamil literature, as well as study of Dharmic religions (like Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, etc.)."
- Bengali studies – study of culture and languages of Bengal - Dravidology – study of Dravidian languages of Southern India - Tamil studies - Pakistan studies - Sindhology – the study of the historical Sindh region
"Some scholars distinguish Classical Indology from Modern Indology, the former more focused on Sanskrit, Tamil and other ancient language sources, the latter on contemporary India, its politics and sociology."