Ancient India: living traditions

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★★★★★ 'Ethereal. Passionate.' – The Guardian
★★★★★ 'Spellbinding. Full of surprises and intrigue.' – The Standard
★★★★ 'Atmospheric. Gods and rituals come to life.' – The Times

Discover the origins of the sacred art of Buddhism, Hinduism and Jainism in the nature spirits of ancient India in this landmark exhibition.

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Painting of Hindu god Krishna with Naga.

All you need to know

Curator's Corner

Join exhibition curator Dr Sushma Jansari to get the lowdown on how ancient Indian art, religion and mythology have shaped cultures across Asia and beyond.

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Friday late event

18 July, 18.00–20.00

Free activities co-created by the Museum's Youth Collective, inspired by the exhibition's themes of community, continuity and change, as part of South Asian Heritage Month.

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Exhibition book

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Person holding with one hand inside Ancient India shop bag.

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All things ancient India

Discover intricately crafted jewellery, textiles, prints, books and gifts – each inspired by the art, mythology and spiritual practices that shaped ancient India and beyond.

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Person making chai tea in room with pots and pans on the floor.

From our friends

Amala Chai

Available to purchase from the exhibition shop, Amala Chai are bringing authentic chai back to its roots, paying Indian farms three to four times the commodity price. Watch our video on chai's ancient Indian origins and how it lives on today.

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Images:

Inside Ancient India: living traditions.

Krishna with Kaliya. Gouache painting on paper, India, 1800s.

White marble carving of a Jain Vidyādevī, India, about AD 1050.

Vishnu in the form of Kalki. Gouache painting on paper, India, 1800s.

Copper alloy of goddess, India, about AD 1000.

Gold Bimaran reliquary casket, Afghanistan, about AD 100.

Brewing process of Amala Chai's chai tea.

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