The Orientalists were a group of scholars who studied the languages, culture, and history of the East, including India, in the late 18th and 19th centuries. They were mostly European scholars who were fascinated by the exoticism of the East and sought to understand it through their own cultural and historical frameworks. Their studies in India helped in the development of Indology, which is the academic study of Indian culture, history, and languages. They contributed immensely by translating many Indian texts into European languages, which helped to spread knowledge about Indian culture and history in Europe.
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However, the Orientalists have been criticized for their Eurocentric biases and their role in creating a distorted image of Indian culture and history. They often viewed Indian culture as inferior to European culture and imposed their own values and beliefs onto Indian society. Despite the criticisms, the Orientalists’ work laid the foundation for the academic study of Indian culture and history, which continues to evolve today.