Jonathan Parry

Jonathan Parry is a British social anthropologist known for his extensive research on death, caste, and religion. Much of his work focuses specifically on these themes within Indian society. His detailed ethnographies have defined modern Indian anthropology.

He is highly regarded for his 1994 book titled Death in Banaras. The book provides a detailed analysis of the funeral rituals and the symbolism of death in the holy city of Varanasi. It is considered a classic text in the study of Hinduism.

Parry has spent decades conducting ethnographic fieldwork in India. He has studied various communities, including steelworkers in Bhilai and funeral priests in Banaras. His work provides a comprehensive look at both industrial and religious life in India.

He spent the majority of his academic career at the London School of Economics (LSE). He was a prominent professor of anthropology there until his retirement. He is highly respected within the British social anthropology tradition.