Ajay K. Rao

Ajay K. Rao is an Associate Professor at the University of Toronto, affiliated with the Department of Historical Studies and the Department for the Study of Religion. His research focuses on Sanskrit intellectual history, Sanskrit literature, and religious traditions in South India.

• PhD from University of Chicago
• Specialization in South Asian Religion and Sanskrit Literature

Rao’s scholarly work explores the intersection of Hinduism and South Asian cultural history. His first book, Re-figuring the Ramayana as Theology, examines traditional hermeneutics and the pre-colonial evolution of the Ramayana as a religious text. Current collaborative projects include studies on the 'Age of Vedanta' and 'Sultanate Sanskrit'.

Rao’s publications demonstrate a focus on Sanskrit theological traditions, royal religious practices, and literary commentary. His work bridges historical, literary, and philosophical approaches to South Asian studies.