FLAME x ORCA Research Projects

FLAME University’s Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Organisation for Research on China and Asia (ORCA) aims to foster academic and research collaboration. This partnership offers students valuable opportunities to enhance their research skills, while also providing a platform to publish and present their scholarly work.

An Introduction to the Treasures of India-China Exchanges

Author: Rahul Karan Reddy, FLAME Alumnus

The Episodes of India-China Exchanges: Modern Bridges and Resonant Connections project is rooted in the desire to enhance public consciousness of India’s contributions to Chinese culture and society and vice versa.

Chinese Video Games in India

Author: Arshiya Poonawala, FLAME Alumna

Video games are a uniquely contemporary avenue of cultural and people-to-people interactions. The journey of Chinese video games in the highly lucrative gaming market of India is reflective of how modern cultural interactions between India and China are shaped by games,

The Undying Influence and Memory of Dr. Kotnis

Author:Aditi Dash, Undergraduate Student

The impact of people to people ties between India and China is exemplified by the travels and contributions of Dr. Dwarkanath Kotnis. His contribution resonates with people in China to this day and remains one of the most commonly referenced instances of people to people ties between the two countries

Living Cultural Relics of Ornamental Trees

Author:Bhavana Sethuraman, FLAME Scholar’s Program Student
Rahul Karan Reddy, FLAME Alumnus

From Harshavardhana’s time in 647 A.D, when ornamental trees were given as gifts to the Chinese court, to when Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2015 gifted saplings of the Bodhi tree to the Chief abbot of the Big Wild Goose Pagoda in Xi’an, trees have featured prominently in civilizational contacts.

The Story of Oyo’s Conquest in China

Author:Tara Awasthi, Undergraduate Student
Rahul Karan Reddy, FLAME Alumnus

The story of OYO, a popular hotel aggregator in India, is about an Indian startup that rapidly became China’s largest hotel company. It is also a story about the short-lived success of the company in China, and the challenges of culture and people-to-people connections that inhibit the success of Indian start-ups in the mainland.

Confucius Institutes and Sister City Agreements

Author:Neha Tuheen, FLAME Alumna
Rahul Karan Reddy, FLAME Alumnus

China’s signature public diplomacy and cultural export to India has been Confucius Institutes and Sister City Agreements. Confucius Institutes were a major part of China’s soft power and a source of influence in academia, media and civil society,

From Merchants to Modern Networks: The Tamil Legacy in China

Author:Trishala S, FLAME Alumna

The history of Tamil traders in China was largely shaped by royal patronage and state-driven initiatives, yet it continues to thrive today through a reinvention of cultural exchanges that extend beyond state influence.

The Highs and Lows of Porcelain Trade: A Microcosm of India-China Trade Relations

Author:Krisha Balsarkar, FLAME Alumna
Rahul Karan Reddy, FLAME Alumnus

Historical porcelain trade between India and China, dating back to ancient times, has not only been a cornerstone of economic exchange but has also featured prominently in political exchanges between kings and elites in both civilizations.

High Speed Railways in China

Author: Kriti Rai, Undergraduate student at FLAME University pursuing Data Science and Economics.

China's High-Speed Rail (HSR) network, is the world's largest and most used, offering low fares and reduced travel times. Despite financial challenges and significant debt, the HSR system continues to expand and improve, leveraging advanced technology and strategic international exports..

Book Review: Invitation to A Banquet

Author: Diksha Takale, Undergraduate Student

Fuchsia Dunlop’s "Invitation to a Banquet" offers an immersive exploration of Chinese cuisine's rich history and cultural significance, delving into its diverse traditions and culinary artistry. It captivates readers, encouraging a deeper appreciation for the multifaceted world of Chinese culinary traditions..

Book Review: The Silk Road

Author: Akshata Nair, Undergraduate Program

Valerie Hansen's "The Silk Road: A New History" offers a meticulously researched account of the Silk Road, debunking myths and emphasizing regional trade dynamics. Through archaeological evidence, she explores the cultural, economic, and religious exchanges along the route..

Precarious Prospects

Author: Akshata Nair, Undergraduate Program

China’s rising levels of youth unemployment is rapidly turning into a large-scale crisis. This has warranted extensive action by the Communist Party of China (CPC), including an overhaul of policy measures and selective reporting. In June 2023,..

Non-CPC Parties in China

Author: Akshata Nair, Undergraduate Program

China has a unique one-party system of governance that allows the existence of multiple other democratic parties. These parties do not have the opportunity to come to power, but certain provisions allow them to participate in Chinese policy-making and governance..