Umran Academic Research Association
उमरान एकेडेमिक रिसर्च एसोसिएशन
An academic initiative under the auspices of the Umran Green Perspective Foundation (UGPF), a registered non-profit organization founded by Rajeev Kumar and supported by Professor Bruce B. Lawrence, Marcus Family Humanities Professor of Religion Emeritus at Duke University.
Our Mission
To advance the study of pluralism and cross-cultural communication among early-stage scholars, including master’s and doctoral students. We organize seminars in collaboration with global academic institutions and publish innovative interdisciplinary research in the humanities and social sciences.
Research Areas
Where our research and programmes concentrate
Bhakti-Sufi Studies
Exploring the devotional traditions of Bhakti and Sufism to foster interfaith understanding.
Explore →Civil Society Initiatives
Research and activities that strengthen community engagement and social responsibility.
Explore →Gender Studies
Promoting research on gender equality and the empowerment of marginalized genders.
Explore →Lecture Series & Conferences
Events that bring scholars together to discuss contemporary issues in literature, culture and society.
View lectures →Publications
Sharing ideas on culture, literature and society
Educational Opportunities
For students and emerging scholars
Our People
The scholars and team behind UARA
Advisory Board
Scholars from India, Turkey and the USA who guide our academic direction.
Meet the advisors →Administrative Team
The team that leads UARA and U-Talk.
Meet the team →Editorial Board
The editors behind every issue of U-Talk.
Meet the editors →Partners
Universities and organizations we collaborate with.
See partners →Through these initiatives, UARA embodies UGPF’s vision of fostering a communicative society that inspires humanity towards peace and prosperity, deeply rooted in shared values.
UARA in Focus
Watch to learn more about our work