The Routledge Handbook of South Asian Culture and Society presents key issues on culture and society in the South Asian context. Written by experts in their respective areas, the Handbook introduces the reader to the field. Emphasizing the significant changes that have been taking place in South Asian societies in light of globalization and the critical responses this has generated, the chapters capture the new kinds of themes across the domains of religion, politics, economics, and kinship. Taking into account economic and political changes in the different South Asian societies, the contributors provide invaluable insight into the cultural life of the region. Thereby, a history of the moment' of South Asian culture and society is presented. The Handbook is structured along the following sections: * institutional and cultural framework * modernity: its promises and its threats * gender * geography, environment, population and urban studies * religion * literature, theatre, music and the arts * popular culture. This comprehensive reference work will be an invaluable source of information to students and academics interested in cultural studies, anthropology and sociology and South Asian studies.