New Books Network Knut A. Jacobsen, "Hinduism in the World: Migrations and Global Presence" (Routledge, 2025)
Jan 22, 2026
Knut A. Jacobsen, a Professor of religious studies at the University of Bergen, delves into the fascinating global presence of Hinduism in this discussion. He explores how Hindu traditions have transformed across various cultures and the concept of sacralizing new spaces. Jacobsen shares intriguing case studies like Tamil diasporas and temples abroad, highlighting the role of 'spiritual migrants' in spreading Hindu spirituality. The conversation offers insights into the diversity of Hindu identities and the future trajectories of Hindu practices worldwide.
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Hidden Pioneers Of Early Hindu Migration
- Knut A. Jacobsen highlights overlooked figures in early Hindu migrations to Europe and uses lesser-known empirical material to tell a broader story.
- He frames Hindu global presence as a long-standing, diverse process rather than a recent phenomenon.
The Bengali Sannyasin Who Settled In Norway
- Jacobsen recounts the first Bengali sannyasin who settled in Europe and later Norway from 1912–1945.
- He traces that guru's ideas to a largely forgotten Kolkata teacher, Paramahamsa Shivanarayan.
Sacralizing Locales Beyond South Asia
- Jacobsen argues Hinduism sacralizes local spaces by transplanting sacred narratives and practices to new locales.
- He sees this as Hinduism taking "ownership" of places by making them sacred worldwide.
