Basham A L

Arthur Llewellyn Basham (1914–1986) was a prominent British historian and Indologist, recognized for his extensive scholarship on the history and cultures of India. Educated at the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), he developed a deep interest in Eastern religions and languages, earning a BA in Sanskrit. His academic career included significant teaching roles at SOAS and later at the Australian National University (ANU), where he mentored many notable historians of India. Basham's work often explored the philosophical and cultural underpinnings of Indian civilization, making him a key figure in Western Indology. His early exposure to India through his father's experiences, coupled with his mother's literary background, fostered a lifelong dedication to studying the subcontinent. He also demonstrated a personal aptitude for music, composing and performing from a young age.

Basham's research culminated in influential publications, most notably "The Wonder That Was India," which became a widely used introduction to Indian civilization. His doctoral research focused on the "History and Doctrines of the Ajivikas," a subject to which he dedicated significant academic effort. Throughout his career, he held professorships and received accolades, including being a Foundation Fellow of the Australian Academy of the Humanities. In his later years, he was appointed Swami Vivekananda Professor at the Asiatic Society of Calcutta, a testament to his enduring impact. Basham's legacy continues through memorial lectures and the lasting influence of his writings on the study of India.

Arthur Llewellyn Basham's academic journey was marked by significant contributions to Indology. After serving in Civil Defence during World War II, he returned to the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) to pursue his PhD under Professor L.D. Barnett. His doctoral research, which delved into the "History and Doctrines of the Ajivikas," earned him a scholarship and laid the foundation for his scholarly reputation. Basham progressed through academic ranks at SOAS, becoming a lecturer, then a Reader, and eventually a Professor. He also served as Head of the History Department at SOAS. Later, he moved to the Australian National University (ANU) in Canberra, where he headed the History Department and held the Professorship of Oriental (later Asian) Civilizations. During his tenure at SOAS, he taught a generation of influential historians of India, including prominent figures like Romila Thapar and Ram Sharan Sharma. His influence extended globally, and he was a Foundation Fellow of the Australian Academy of the Humanities.

Basham's lifelong fascination with India was sparked in his childhood by his father's stories from his time serving in the Indian Army. This early exposure, combined with his mother's background as a journalist and writer, instilled in him a deep appreciation for language, literature, and culture. His intellectual curiosity extended beyond his upbringing in Christianity to encompass Hinduism, Buddhism, and Islam. This broad interest informed his academic pursuits, leading him to earn a BA in Sanskrit from SOAS. His scholarly work often explored the philosophical and religious dimensions of Indian civilization, seeking to understand its historical development and doctrines. He was also known for his critical assessment of figures like Swami Vivekananda, recognizing his global impact on the modern world.

Arthur Llewellyn Basham's most celebrated work is "The Wonder That Was India," first published in 1954. This book became a seminal introduction to Indian civilization, widely used and frequently reissued, with paperback editions reaching their 37th printing by 2001. In it, he explored profound philosophical concepts, stating that "man can escape from 'Law of Gravity' as well as 'passage of Time' but not from his deeds." His doctoral dissertation was later published as "History and Doctrines of the Ajivikas: a Vanished Indian Religion." Basham also edited "A Cultural History of India" and revised Vincent Arthur Smith's "Oxford History of India." His academic contributions were recognized with appointments such as the Swami Vivekananda Professor in Oriental Studies at the Asiatic Society of Calcutta. He died in Calcutta in 1986, and his legacy is honored through annual public lectures at the ANU.

“in centuries to come, he will be remembered as one of the main moulders of the modern world”

“man can escape from 'Law of Gravity' as well as 'passage of Time' but not from his deeds”