Bhushita B. Vasistha

Smiling young woman with long dark hair, red vest and ornate necklace, indoor portrait

Teaching Assistant in Human Rights

Sproul Hall

Originally from Nepal, Bhushita Vasistha studies Sanskrit literature, feminist theory, and women who refuse to behave properly in classical texts. She is particularly interested in the inconvenient possibility that some of the most radical philosophers in Sanskrit epics may have been sidelined so far as mere mischief-makers. A former Fulbright Scholar, she completed an MFA in Creative Writing at San José State University before turning to formal Sanskrit studies at Nepal Sanskrit University after realizing reading translated texts could no longer quell her obsessions. In addition to her research interest, she is currently translating Arundhati Roy into Nepali and working on her longer piece of fiction.

Education and Degree(s)
  • MFA, Fiction/Nonfiction, San Jose State University
  • M.A. English Literature, Tribhuwan University
  • B.A. English Literature, Journalism and Mass Communication, Tribhuwan University
Research Interests & Expertise
  • Asian Religions with a focus on how ethical authority is negotiated in Sanskrit religious traditions, particular attention to women thinkers