Sir Christopher Ondaatje South Asian Gallery | Level 3

The Sir Christopher Ondaatje South Asian Gallery is temporarily closed while we refresh our galleries. Stay tuned for more information soon! 
 


Where tradition and modernity meet.

The history of South Asia spans more than 5,000 years, from an ancient civilization with a sophisticated visual culture and technology, to modern cities that are among the world's leading cosmopolitan centres. Though distinguished by diverse languages, religions and geographies, it's also unified by shared cultures, rituals and visual forms.

The ROM's gallery is the only one of its kind in the western world to showcase both historical artifacts and contemporary art in a shared space in a celebration of the dynamic and diverse cultures of South Asia. It also represents the growing Diaspora, including the many South Asian communities living in Canada today.

About the Gallery

What?

350 of the best or most intriguing objects, out of an evolving collection of over 7,000 artifacts, in nine thematically organized areas including Imagining the Buddha, The Goddess, Passage to Enlightenment, Cultural Exchange, Home and the World (presenting modern and contemporary art of South Asia and its Diaspora as it pertains to contemporary issues), and more.

Where?

This gallery reflects the visual cultures of South Asia, a region that includes the countries of Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and the plateau region of Tibet in the Northeastern Himalayas.

When?

Spans the last 5,000 years: c. 2700 BCE to the present day.

Explore More

Search the ROM's online collections