The Asiatic Society was founded by Sir William Jones on January 15, 1784, in Calcutta. At the time of its foundation, it was named Asiatick Society. In 1825, it was renamed as The Asiatic Society, then in 1832, it was changed to The Asiatic Society of Bengal, and finally, on July 1, 1951, it was changed to its present name. The society is housed in Kolkata. One of the main activities of the Asiatic Society was to collect old manuscripts of India, especially Sanskrit manuscripts. Currently, the library has about 117,000 books and 79,000 journals in almost all the major languages of the world. It also has a collection of 293 maps, microfiche of 48,000 works, microfilm of 387,003 pages, 182 paintings, 2500 pamphlets, and 2150 photographs.Asiatick Researches, or, Transactions of the Society Instituted in Bengal, for enquiring into the History and Antiquities, the Arts, Sciences and Literature, of Asia" is a collection of scholarly articles published by the Asiatic Society of Bengal. Founded by Sir William Jones in 1784, the society aimed to promote the study of Asian culture, history, and science. "Asiatick Researches" served as a platform for disseminating knowledge and research findings to a wider audience.

Interdisciplinary Approach The journal covered a wide range of subjects, including history, archaeology, literature, science, and the arts, fostering an interdisciplinary approach to the study of Asia. Oriental Studies It played a pivotal role in the development of Oriental studies, promoting a deeper understanding of Asian cultures and civilizations in the West. Scholarly Exchange The journal facilitated scholarly exchange between Europe and Asia, connecting researchers and institutions from different parts of the world. Foundation for Future Research The research and findings published in Asiatick Researches laid a solid foundation for future studies on Asia and the Orient.

Ancient History and Civilizations The journal featured articles on the history, culture, and society of ancient civilizations in Asia, such as India, Persia, and China. Linguistics and Philology It included studies on Asian languages, including Sanskrit, Persian, and Arabic, and their relationship to European languages. Archaeology and Epigraphy The journal published reports on archaeological discoveries and decipherments of ancient inscriptions, shedding light on the past. Natural History and Science It covered topics related to the natural history of Asia, including botany, zoology, and geology, as well as scientific advancements in the region. Arts and Literature Asiatick Researches explored the arts, literature, and philosophy of Asia, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the continent.

Rediscovery of Asian Heritage The journal contributed to the rediscovery and appreciation of Asian heritage, promoting a sense of pride and identity among Asians. Western Understanding of Asia It helped to shape Western understanding of Asia, challenging prevailing stereotypes and promoting a more nuanced and informed perspective2. Cross-Cultural Dialogue Asiatick Researches fostered cross-cultural dialogue and exchange, encouraging mutual respect and understanding between different cultures. Inspiration for Art and Literature The journal inspired artists, writers, and intellectuals in both Asia and the West, leading to the creation of new works that reflected Asian themes and motifs

Stimulation of Research The journal stimulated further research on Asia, encouraging scholars to explore new areas and topics. Preservation of Knowledge It helped to preserve and disseminate knowledge about Asia, ensuring that it would be available to future generations. Promotion of Education Asiatick Researches contributed to the promotion of education and learning, both in Asia and in the West. Influence on Policy The research and findings published in the journal influenced policy decisions related to Asia, shaping colonial administration, trade, and diplomacy. Rise of Nationalism By promoting a sense of pride in Asian heritage, Asiatick Researches indirectly contributed to the rise of nationalism and independence movements in the region.

Volume 1 of Asiatick Researches contains a diverse collection of articles that reflect the wide-ranging interests of the Asiatic Society. Some of the notable contributions include: The Introduction This first publication of the Asiatic Society recognizes that it may not answer the expectations that may have been hastily formed by the learned in Europe. They should consider the disadvantages that must naturally have attended its institution and retarded its progress. A mere man of letters, retired from the world and allotting his whole time to philosophical or literary pursuits, is a character unknown among Europeans resident in India, where every individual is a man of business in the civil or military state, and constantly occupied either in the affairs of government, in the administration of justice, in some department of revenue or commerce, or in one of the liberal professions. The Preliminary Discourse The design is to take an ample space for learned investigations, bounded only by the geographical limits of Asia. Considering Hindustan as a center, there are many important kingdoms in the Eastern peninsula, the ancient and wonderful empire of China with all her Tartarian dependencies, and that of Japan, with the cluster of precious islands, in which many singular curiosities have too long been concealed. Sir William Jones's Discourses The volume includes several discourses by Sir William Jones, in which he discusses his vision for the society and its role in promoting the study of Asia. Jones also presents his theories on the relationship between Asian and European languages, laying the groundwork for comparative linguistics. Studies on Indian History and Culture Several articles focus on the history, culture, and religion of India. These include studies on ancient Indian texts, archaeological sites, and religious practices. Explorations of Natural History The volume features articles on the natural history of Asia, including descriptions of plants, animals, and geological formations. These studies provide valuable insights into the biodiversity of the region. Translations of Asian Literature Asiatick Researches includes translations of literary works from Asian languages, such as Persian and Sanskrit. These translations introduce Western readers to the rich literary traditions of Asia. Observations on Asian Society Some articles offer observations on contemporary Asian society, providing insights into the social, economic, and political conditions of the time.

The 1801 edition of \"Asiatic Researches; or, Transactions of the Society Instituted in Bengal for Inquiring into the History and Antiquities, the Arts, Sciences, and Literature of Asia,\" Volume 1, typically includes:IntroductionOverview of the volume and objectives of the Asiatic Society. Historical PapersArticles on historical events and figures from various Asian regions. AntiquitiesResearch on archaeological findings, ancient artifacts, and historical sites. ArtsStudies on the artistic traditions and achievements of Asia, including sculpture, painting, and architecture. SciencesContributions on scientific advancements and knowledge in Asia, such as astronomy, mathematics, and medicine. LiteratureAnalysis of significant literary works and their cultural impact in different Asian cultures. Miscellaneous PapersAdditional research on diverse topics related to Asian history and culture. AppendicesSupplementary materials such as maps, illustrations, and related documents. IndexIndex for locating key topics, names, and contributors within the volume.