USC Scholar James McHugh Redefines Ancient South Asian History: Inside The Professor's Groundbreaking Sensory Research

As the University of Southern California (USC) prepares for the upcoming Fall 2026 academic semester, the pioneering research of James McHugh, Professor of Religion at USC Dornsife, continues to draw international acclaim. Renowned for his unique approach to Indology, McHugh utilizes classical Sanskrit texts to reconstruct the rich sensory and material culture of pre-modern South Asia. His innovative scholarship has established USC as a leading hub for the study of historical sensory experiences, bridging the gap between ancient texts and tangible human history.

Sensory History and the Material Culture of Ancient India

McHugh's academic journey is defined by his ability to extract vivid material realities from complex Sanskrit manuscripts. His landmark book, Sandalwood and Carrion: Smell in South Asian Religion and Culture, revolutionized the field of sensory history by exploring how perfumes, aromatics, and foul odors shaped religious rituals and social hierarchies in medieval India. By examining the commercial, medical, and religious dimensions of scent, McHugh demonstrated that smell was a vital tool for articulating class, purity, and devotion.

Building on this sensory framework, his subsequent major work, An Unholy Brew: Alcohol in Indian History and Religions, offered the first comprehensive history of drink in pre-modern South Asia. This meticulous study challenged long-held stereotypes about absolute prohibition in Indian religions, detailing the complex legal, medical, and spiritual debates surrounding alcohol. Through these works, McHugh has consistently shown how everyday material objects and bodily sensations are deeply intertwined with high-level theological and philosophical developments.

Accessing McHugh's Scholarship and Courses at USC

For students and researchers looking to engage with McHugh's work during the 2026-2027 academic year, USC offers several pathways to access his expertise. McHugh regularly teaches undergraduate and graduate courses through the USC School of Religion, covering topics such as Hinduism, Buddhist traditions, and the history of religions in Asia. His classes are highly sought after for their interdisciplinary nature, blending literary analysis with historical anthropology.

In addition to classroom instruction, McHugh's extensive catalog of peer-reviewed articles and chapters is accessible through the USC Libraries portal and major academic databases. Scholars worldwide frequently tune into his guest lectures and panel discussions, which are often co-hosted by the USC Shinso Ito Center for Japanese Religions and Culture and other regional study departments. His public-facing scholarship ensures that complex historical concepts remain accessible to a broader audience beyond the university gates.

Future Research and the 2026 Academic Outlook

Looking ahead into late 2026 and early 2027, McHugh remains at the forefront of expanding the boundaries of material history in South Asian studies. His ongoing research initiatives continue to investigate the intersections of religion, technology, and the natural world in classical India. Academics anticipate his participation in upcoming international conferences, where he is slated to present new findings on the trade of luxury commodities and their religious significance in pre-modern trade networks.

As USC Dornsife continues to prioritize innovative humanities research, McHugh's work serves as a prime example of how classical languages like Sanskrit can unlock fresh perspectives on global history. His dedication to mentoring the next generation of historians ensures that the study of South Asian religions will remain a vibrant, evolving field at USC for years to come.