Silicon Valley, renowned worldwide as the epicenter of innovation and technological advancement, owes much of its success to the diverse tapestry of individuals who have contributed their talents and ideas to its ecosystem. Among these contributors, South Asians have played a significant role in shaping the landscape of technology, entrepreneurship, and culture in this vibrant region.

A 'Bothi' being used in a coconut-grating competition during a Sri Lankan New Year celebration.
The same ‘Bothi’ being used in a coconut-grating competition during a Sri Lankan New Year celebration. Courtesy: Sumudinie Fernando

In celebration of this rich heritage and influence, SJSU King Library is proud to announce the opening of its newest exhibit, “South Asians in Silicon Valley.” This immersive and enlightening exhibit explores the stories, achievements, and impact of South Asians, highlighting the journeys, innovations, and cultural contributions of South Asian people from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka.

Men and women pray after 'iftar' at the West Valley Muslim Association
Men and women pray after ‘iftar’ at the West Valley Muslim Association (image courtesy: Lesley Seacrist, SJSU Library)

Visitors will embark on a journey through the four themes of the South Asian presence in Silicon Valley: Activism, Cricket, Food, and Religion. The South Asians in Silicon Valley program’s goal is to record the South Asian experience, share it with our Bay Area communities, preserve these rich histories for generations to come, and, most importantly, give South Asians a sense of belonging at San José State University and beyond. 

Librarian Mantra Roy checking on one of the exhibit cases that displays cooking utensils used across South Asia.
Librarian Mantra Roy checking on one of the exhibit cases that displays cooking utensils used across South Asia. Photo Courtesy: Lesley Seacrist

“We are thrilled to present the first of its kind, “South Asians in Silicon Valley,” which sheds light on the invaluable contributions of this community,” said Mantra Roy, collection strategy librarian at SJSU King Library. This exhibit not only celebrates the achievements of South Asians but also underscores the importance of diversity and inclusion in fostering innovation and driving progress.”

Highlights of the exhibit include:

  • Five major religions, Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, Jainism, and Sikhism, as practiced by the South Asian diaspora, are on display 
  • Food, with deep roots in the countries of their origin, as prepared and shared by the South Asian diaspora, are on display.
  • Cricket, the most popular sport in South Asia with over a billion fans, including in the global diaspora and actively taught and pursued in the Bay Area, is in the exhibit display.
  • The role South Asians have played in social and political activism in the Bay Area is in the exhibit display

“South Asians in Silicon Valley” promises to be a captivating and thought-provoking experience for visitors of all ages and backgrounds. It offers a deeper understanding of the diverse forces driving innovation in one of the world’s most dynamic industries.

The exhibit will open to the public on April 1st and will be on display on the fifth floor of the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Library through May 31st, 2024. For more information, please visit the exhibit’s website.

About SJSU King Library

San José State University (SJSU) King Library brings people, ideas, and information together through its spaces, resources, and expertise to facilitate community building, innovation, and knowledge creation.