The Royal Asiatic Society of Great Britain and Ireland was founded by the eminent Sanskrit scholar Sir Henry Thomas Colebrooke on the 15th March 1823. It received its Royal Charter from King George IV on the 11th August 1824 'for the investigation of subjects connected with and for the encouragement of science, literature and the arts in relation to Asia'. It continues as a forum for those who are interested in the languages, cultures and history of Asia to meet and exchange ideas.
In 1973 the Society celebrated its Sesquicentenary with various activities including an exhibition at the Victoria and Albert Museum, London, a Symposium on "The Undeciphered Languages", various 'National Days' and School lectures, a Reception, a Dinner, and a further Sherry Reception, and with the publication of "The Royal Asiatic Society: Its History and Treasures".