Ancient Indian History

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[1]. A Journey through India's Past : From Earliest Times to the Last Hindu Emperor by Mani, Chandra Mauli 2005, 23 cm., pp. x+126, maps, Northern Book Centre , 8172111940, US$ 9.41 or Rs. 400
The book presents the history of our great nation from the earliest times to the 7th century AD when the last of the Hindu emperors, Harshvardhana, ruled over a major part of India. The author has presented the chequered history in a brief manner, and with meticulour regard to authenticity of facts. He has deftly touched upon differing views on controversial matters, pinpointing the most likely scenario in an objectives manner. The book meets the long-felt need of a nationalist, yet independent, appraisal of our past in a concise manner. It avoids the preconceived notions of foreign historians and their blind followers, at the same time without attempting undue glorification of the past. The size and authenticity of presentation make the book useful not only to the general reader, but even for serious and discerning students of Ancient Indian History. The book is certainly a laudable attempt to bring our glorious heritage alive!

[2]. A Manual of Prehistoric India by Mitra, Panchanan 2005, 23 cm., pp. 512, pls. 53, Cosmo Publications , 8130700964, US$ 16.35 or Rs. 695
Contents : Races and cultures in India - Earlier studies and present outlook / The geological background; geographical and palaeo-geographical features / The palaeontological basis--The human ancestry--The cradle-land--The Siwalik Primates--Fossil men outside India / The earliest artifacts of Pre-Chellean India (probably more than a lac of years old) / Early Palaeolithic phases--Chellean, Acheullean and Mousterian types / Pleistocene cave-life--Karnul / Late Palaeolithic and Mesolithic cultures--The Capsian industry stations / Prehistoric cave-art and rock-carvings / The Neolithic types in India / The Neolithic culture-stations / Prehistoric metallurgy / Mohen-jo-Daro - a remarkable discovery of an Eneolithic site--Harappa and Nal-Sir John Marshall's reports / Prehistoric copper and bronze finds from other sites / The Indian Megaliths--their builders and origin / The Megalithic structures--their architectural features, contents and distribution in India / From extinct to living types--Mammals--The Bayana, Sialkot, Nala, Mohen-jo-Daro and Adichanllur human remains / Prehistoric potteries and terracottas of India / Culture--sequence and origins / Appendices / Index.

[3]. A New Theory on the Origin and Evolution of Brahmi Alphabet by Banerjee, Amalendu 2006, 25 cm., pp. ix+118, Black & White , 8189320106, US$ 8.24 or Rs. 350
Inscriptions have been discovered from Indus culture areas, belonging to the intervening centuries between the eclipse of this culture and the appearance of Asokan edicts. The author analyses them and shows a distinct continuity of evolution of the characters from Indus to Brahmi script in the lapse of 2000 BC to 500 BC. Phonetics of Brahmi characters have been successfully used by Professor B.B. Chakravorty as bridges to decipher Indus legends. Similarly, Dr. S.K. Rao has used the phonetics of a majority of Semitic characters similar in shape to the Indus pictograms and obtained the picture of a relevant logical pre-Vedic language on decipherment. The author has established that all Brahmi characters excepting three on four can be created by applying the principle of acrophony to the ancient Indo-Aryan language. The remaining letter were either created from Austric words or from other foreign languages, when trade contacts grew intensively around fourth-fifth century BC. Therefore, he concluded the source of both Brahmi and Semitic alphabets are the Indust character themselves. Contents : Introduction / Indus Characters Through the Ages / Brahmi Used as a Bridge to Decipher Indus Legends / Relation between the Indus Script and Semitic Alphabet / Antiquity of the Brahmi Script / Introduction and Evolution of Brahmi Letters / Creation of Vowels and Later Consonants / Evolution Chart of Brahmi Letters / Summary Sequences

[4]. Administration Conquests and Expansion in Ancient India by Verma, B.R. & Bakshi, S.R. 2005, Commonwealth Publishers , 8171698247, US$ 28.82 or Rs. 1225
This volume has deep thrust on administration, conquests and expansion in ancient India. Its main significance deals with various aspects of caste and literature in the social life of people living in several regions of Indian sub-continent. The glory of the Mauryan Empire has been well-depicted along with the foreign invasions and the administrative capability of the Gupta Empire. The two regions of North and South are the gloring phenomenon in this volume. The volume has been well-weaved into sixteen chapters having deep bearing on administration, conquests and expansion in ancient India. They deal with various aspects of early society, the vedic religion, literature as an effective measure in our society, the development of architecture, the caste system, astronomy and its uses, developments in South India, several aspects of social life, Persian and Greek invasions, the Mauryan Age, kingship and the administrative set up, impact of foreign invasions, the strenght of Gupta Empire and structure of Governments in North and South India.

[5]. Administration, Conquests and Expansion in Ancient India by Verma, B. R. & Bakshi, S. R. (Eds.) 2005, 25 cm., pp. viii+246, Commonwealth Publishers , 8171698247, US$ 28.82 or Rs. 1225
This volume has deep thrust on administration, conquests and expansion in ancient India. It main significance deals with various aspects of caste and literature in the social life of people living in several regions of Indian subcontinent. The glory of the Maurayan Empire. The two regions of North and South are the gloring phenomenon in this volume.

[6]. An Annotated Archaeological Atlas of West Bengal, Vol. 1 : Prehistory and Protohistory by Chattopadhyaya, B.D. 2005, 45 cm., pp. 120, maps, tables, figs., notes, Manohar Publishers & Dist. (ISBN : 8173045853) , 8173045852, US$ 58.82 or Rs. 2500
An Annotated Archaeological Atlas of West Bengal was envisaged with the objective of making a visual presentation of the cultural profile of West Bengal through different archaeological cultural stages. This Atlas will serve as an instructional aid and also familiarize the public with the different periods through which Bengali culture has evolved. In publishing the Atlas, spatial expressions of the temporal dimensions of archaeological cultures is brought into a sharp relief. The approach is primarily historical where attempt has been made to delineate the cultural trajectories within the confines of the state of West Bengal from the Prehistoric past to AD 1858. In order to cover such a vast time frame the Atlas will be published in four volumes. The first volume highlights the Pre- and Protohistoric culture phases in West Bengal. Each map in this volume has been digitized using sophisticated software so that the archaeological sites can be accurately plotted with respect to their geographical coordinates. The Atlas has been annotated to facilitate understanding of the different cultural periods shown in the maps. For instance, the notes following the maps showing Stone Age sites include comments on type of stone used for making tools. This pattern has been maintained for all the cultural periods. This volume contains fifty digitize maps starting with the physical features, geology and geomorphology of West Bengal followed by general distribution of the Pre- and Protohistoric sites in different zones. The physical maps acquaint the user with the landforms and natural features of West Bengal. These maps are also accompanied by brief explanations and descriptions of the different morphological units. The important clusters of Paleolithic culture of West Bengal have been represented on eight maps showing the river valleys where such sites are located and photographic images of Paleolithic artifacts have been included. An overview of Paleolithic West Bengal and an index of the geographical coordinates of sites discovered so far has been added. The major clusters of sites with Microlithic artifacts and Neolithic cultural affiliations have been similarly shown along with texts and indexes. The Black and Red Ware culture, named so after the 'type pottery' of the Chalcolithic phase in West Bengal, has been dealt with exhaustively I the Atlas by showing the distribution pattern of the excavated and explored sites. Excavations were conducted at Baneswardanga and Pandu Rajar Dhibi, two important Black and Red Ware sites in West Bengal. The findings have been outlined in the Atlas with the help of photographic images, drawings and notes. The important ceramic type from Pandu Rajar Dhibi; the Black and Red Ware and Red Ware, has been shown separately to familiarize the user with the ceramic industries of West Bengal during the Black and Red Ware cultural phase. The distribution of limited number of copper hoards found in West Bengal and types found here and shown in two maps. The Centre for Archaeological Studies & Training, Eastern India, entrusted with the running of the project is planning the next volume of the Atlas which will focus on the early historic period. Contents : List of Illustrations / Preface / List of Abbreviations / 1. Introduction --i. Map: West Bengal: Distribution of Prehistoric and Protohistoric Finds / 2. Physiography of West Bengal -- i. Map: West Bengal: Physiography / 3. Geology of West Bengal -- i. Map: West Bengal: Geology; ii. Map: Wet Bengal: Geomorphology; iii. Map: West Bengal: Quaternary Geology / 4. Palaeolithic Artefacts and Their Spatial Distribution in West Bengal -- i. Map: Palaeolithic Artefacts: General Distribution; ii. Map: Palaeolithic Artefacts: Susunia Cluster; iii. Map: Palaeolithic Artefacts: Dwarkeswar-Kasai Cluster; a. Map: Palaeolithic Artefacts: In the Submerged Site of Kasai Reservoir; iv. Map: Pebble-Core Element of Palaeolithic Artefacts of Gandheswari and Dwarkeswar Basin; v. Map: Palaeolithic Artefacts: Bhairabbanki-Tarafeni Cluster; vi. Map: Palaeolithic Artefacts: Subarnarekha Cluster; vii. Map: Palaeolithic Artefacts: Ayodhya Cluster; viii. Map: Palaeolithic Artefacts: West Bengal; ix. Index of Find-spots: Palaeolithic Artefacts / 5. Microlithic Artefacts and Their Spatial Distribution in West Bengal -- i. Map: Microlithic Artefacts: General Distribution / ii. Map: Microlithic Artefacts: Ajay-Kopai Cluster / iii. Map: Microlithic Artefacts: Susunia Cluster; a. Map: Microlithic Artefacts: Susunia; iv. Map: Microlithic Artefacts: Dwarkeswar-Kasai Cluster; a. Map: Microlithic Artefacts: In the Submerged Site of Kasai Reservoir; b. Map: Cultural Composition of the Dwarkeswar-Kasai Cluster; v. Map: Microlithic Artefacts: Bhairabbanki-Tarafeni Cluster; vi. Map: Microlithic Artefacts: Subarnarekha Cluster; a. Map: Microlithic Artefacts: Subarnarekha; vii. Map: Microlithic Artefacts: Ayodhya Cluster; a. Map: Cultural Composition of the Ayodhya Cluster; b. Map: Microlithic Artefacts: Ayodhya; viii. Index of Find-spots: Microlithic Artefacts / 6. Neolithic Artefacts and Their Spatial Distribution in West Bengal -- i. Map: Neolithic Artefacts: General Distribution; ii. Map: Neolithic Artefacts: Susunia Cluster; a. Map: Cultural Composition of the Susunia Cluster; b. Map: Geomorphology and Prehistoric Sites: Susunia Cluster; iii. Map: Neolithic Artefacts: Bhairabbanki-Tarafeni Cluster; a. Map: Cultural Composition of the Bhairabbanki-Tarafeni Cluster; iv. Map: Neolithic Artefacts: Subarnarekha Cluster; a. Map: Cultural Composition of the Subarnarekha Cluster; v. Map: Neolithic Artefacts: Darjiling; vi. Map: Neolithic Artefacts: West Bengal; vii. Index of Find-spots: Neolithic Artefacts / 7. Black and Red Ware Culture: Explored Find-spots -- i. Map: Black and Red Ware: General Distribution (Explored); ii. Map: Black and Red Ware: Ajay-Mayurakshi Cluster; a. Map: Ajay-Mayurakshi Cluster: Geomorphology; iii. Map: Black and Red Ware Artefacts: West Bengal; iv. Index of Find-spots: Black and Red Ware (Explored) / 8. Black and Red Ware Culture: Excavated Sites -- i. Map: Black and Red Ware: General Distribution (Excavated); ii. Map: Cultural Sequence: Baneswardanga; iii. Map: Cultural Sequence: Pandu Rajar Dhibi; a. Map: Cultural Sequence: Pottery, Hearths, Skeletons: Pandu Rajar Dhibi during Excavation; b. Map: Stone Tools, Bone tools, Copper Implements, Pottery: Pandu Rajar Dhibi during Excavation; c. Map: Black Ware and Black and Red Ware: Pandu Rajar Dhibi; d. Map: Red Ware and Painted Ware: Pandu Rajar Dhibi; iv. Index of Find-spots: Black and Red Ware (Excavated) / 9. Copper Hoards in West Bengal -- i. Map: Copper Hoard Artefacts: General Distribution; ii. Map: Copper Hoard Artefacts: West Bengal; iii. Index of Find-spots Copper Hoard Artefacts / 10. Index of Find-spots (Not Plotted on Maps) / Bibliography / Index

[7]. Ancient India : A Multidisciplinary Approach by Goyal, Shankar 2006, pp. xiii+174, Kusumanjali Book Word , US$ 9.41 or Rs. 400
Contents : Meaning and Significance of New Integral Political History / The Pre-Maurya Period / The Maurya Period / Post- Maurya Pre-Gupta Centuries / The Age of the Imperial Guptas / The Post-Gupta Period (c. 500- c.750 A.D.) / An Overview.

[8]. Ancient Sciences and Archaeology : Journal of the Ancient Sciences & Archaeological Society of India by Sampath, M.D. (Exe. Ed.) (Pankaja, N. et al. Eds.) 2005, 29 cm., pp. 280, figs. 37, Bharatiya Kala Prakashan , 8180900452, US$ 47.06 or Rs. 2000
This volume includes the articles presented on the occasion of the National Conference on Ancient Sciences and Archaeology held from March 7th to 9th, 2003 at Sri Parasakthi College for Women, Courtallam. Scholars from different parts of the country took part in the academic deliberations and presented papers on various topics of Ancient Sciences and Archaeology. It was aimed at interactions of the scholars on different issues and the recent researches done in the field of Archaeology, Ancient Mathematics, Ancient Physics, Archaeological Chemistry, Ancient Physics, Archaeological Chemistry, Ancient Biology, Ancient Economics and Commerce, Epigraphy, History Numismatics, Onomastics, Computer Analysis of Ancient Data, Science in Sanskrit and other languages, etc.

[9]. Archaeological Remains in Kashmir by Koul, Pandit Anand 2005, 23 cm., pp. 123, figs., Gulshan Books , 818671491X, US$ 7.65 or Rs. 325
The beautiful and luxuriant Valley of Kashmir, with its superb climate and sceneries of gorgeous splendour and with its measureless appeal, has always a ring of charm about it, which defies any but a fairy pen to describe. Verily a dram of loveliness it is-nay. "if there be an Elysium on earth, it is this, it is this," as goes a well-known Persian saying rendered into English by Thomas Moore in his Lalla Rookh. This Happy Valley is situated in the north of the Pir Panjal range of the Himalayas, by whose lofty and majestic mountains, shimmering with silvery snow, it is engirdled into an irregular oval shape-as if a picture set in a frame. It is about 84 miles long and 30 miles broad, and its area is about 4,500 square miles. In latitude it corresponds with Peshawar, Baghdad and Damascus in Asia; with Fez in Marocco in Africa; and with South Carolina in North America. Kashmir had many great and powerful rulers, whose sway, at one time, extended over the whole of India-even beyond Adam's Bridge in the extreme south. Ancient monuments of very great archaeological interest, which disclose the existence of a lost civilization, are, as stated above, numerous in Kashmir. The devotion of kings, the revenues of the kingdom and the skill of master-artists, combined to raise the magnificent and beautiful edifices. They were built to endure for all time. Their solidity of construction and their gigantic size strike one with wonder that man, puny man, could have built them. Kings have come and gone, and civilizations have bloomed and vanished since they were built. People go and pace around them and gaze on them with amazement and awe-amazement inspired by the stupendous might and skill of their builders, and awe excited by the ruins of these edifices which look as if weeping over the departed glory of their founders.

[10]. Archaeology of BET Dwarka Island by Gaur, A.S. & Vora, Sundaresh K.H. 2005, 28 cm., pp. xxii+146, figs., pls., maps, Aryan Books International , 8173052980, US$ 35.29 or Rs. 1500
The book incorporates archaeological findings, both from land and under-water explorations, carried out at Bet Dwarka by the Marine Archaeology Centre of the National Institute of Oceanography, Goa. Bet Dwarka is one of the most significant archaeological sites in Okhamandal region of Gujarat as it has preserved the longest cultural sequence, commencing from protohistoric period to modern times. The time bracket of archaeological remains have been well supported by the scientific dates such as Carbon, AMS and Thermoluminescence. Other important scientific aspects discussed in the book are analysis of bones, palynological studies, impact of seismic activities and sea level changes of the study area. The book begins with an introduction to the geological, geographic, archaeological and environmental background of the region and then devotes a chapters to chronology, dealing with cultural and scientific dates from the site. Planning and layout of trenches and cultural findings and identification of layers have been described in a separate chapter. A full chapter has been devoted to antiquities discovered during the excavation which includes beads of terracotta, shell, glass, stone and fish bone, copper objects, coins, shell bangles and iron objects. Another chapters comprises of the detailed description of the pottery of the protohistoric and historical period. The concluding chapter deals with the shell remains from the island of Bet Dwarka. It is hoped that the book will help in understanding the maritime activities of the Okhamandal region and the cultural sequence of the Bet Dwarka island. Profusely illustrated with maps, line drawings and plates, the book will interest the general reader and will be immensely useful for the students and scholars of archaeology.

[11]. Archaeology of Lower Ganga-Yamuna Doab, 2 Vols. by Sharma, Deo Prakash 2006, 29 cm., pp. 362, illus., figs. 57, halftone 159, col. 24, Set, Bharatiya Kala Prakashan , 8180900339, US$ 94.12 or Rs. 4000
The book "Archaeology of Lower Ganga-Yamuna Doab" includes field research work. Various controversies of Kausambi excavations done by G. R. Sharma have been discussed in this work. B.B. Lal had raised few points after a gap of 30 years of these excavations. This region consisting of Fatehpur, Kausambi and Allahabad district and has many significant discoveries like Reh inscription of Menander (Posthumous) and inscribed 3rd century A.D. Siva Linga from Mazilgao, Neolithic tools from Khaga and Jhunsi. The burnt brick structures in this region have been traced back to c. 700 B.C. at Kausambi and Jhunsi. This publications also includes brick temples from Fatehpur, Jain sculptures from Asothar, Balakmau and Jain rock-cut caves from Pabhosa. This work coordinates architectural discoveries from Kausambi and Sringaverpur, Buddhist monastery of Kausambi and sacrificial altar Syenciti of Purushamedha of mid 2nd century B.C. from Kausambi after subjecting them to micro-level study. This book also includes art and architecture of Kausambi and Sringaverpur. Stone and terracotta images of this region were studied nd documented in detail. Another significant work was reporting of more than a dozen N.B.P. and early historic sites by author. The present work is divided into six chapters. These chapters are on escological setting of Lower Doab, Lower Ganga-Yamuna Doab through the ages, exploration and excavations, art style and architecture of Allahabad pillar, earliest structures at Kausambi, Syenciti and Purushamedha from Kausambi, Kusana palace architecture, Buddhist monastery, Kusana period tank from Sringaverpur, stone images, and terracotta art. Contents : 1. Ecological setting of the Ganga-Yamuna Doab / 2. Lower Ganga-Yamuna Doab through the Ages / 3. Exploration / Excavation in Doab Region / 4. Architecture -- (a). Architecture of Allahabad Pillar; (b) Date of Early Architecture of Kausambi - A Reappraisal / © Date of Early Palace Architecture of Kausambi - A Reapraisal / (d) Altar of the Syenaciti of Purusa Medha from Kausambi - A Reappraisal / (e) Kusana Period Palace Architecture of Kausambi / (f) Architecture of Buddhist Monastery of Goshitaram at Kausambi / (g) Late Second c.B.C. Jain rock-cut Caves from Pabhosa / (h) Kusuana Period Brick Tank from Sringaverpura / (i) Brick Temples of Lower Ganga-Yamuna Doab / 5. Art -- (a) The Art of Kausambi; (b) Terracotta art of Kausambi; © Some Rare Unpublished Jain Sculptures from Lower Ganga-Yamuna Doab; (d) Stone Sculpture from Fatehpur; (e) Exploration in Fatehpur; (f) Brahmi Inscription from Mazilgao / 6. (a) Newly Discovered N.B.P. Ware (c. 700-100 B.C.) Sites in Fatehpur / (b) Excavated Sites of Lower Ganga-Yamuna Doab / Bibliography / Index

[12]. Art, Archaeology and Cultural History of India, 2 Parts (U.N. Roy Felicitation Volume) by Sinha, C.P. (Ed.) 2006, 29 cm., pp. xxvii+258, ix+259-456, figs., Set, B.R. Publishing Corporation , 8176464929, US$ 94.12 or Rs. 4000
The book Art, Archaeology and Cultural History of India brings to light the recent researches and discoveries in the various fields of indological studies. Against a background of the geographical history of the study areas, the present work meticulously weaves together archaeological evidences, references in literature, pattern, sculpture, monuments, painting etc. to reconstruct a lively narrative. This work, written in a wide and expressive style, is accompanied by several maps, analytical data, and references. The present work will be of social interest to scholars and students of indological studies. Contents : Part I : A Few Words / Chief Editor's Note / U.N. Roy Felicitation Committee / List of Contributors / List of Figures / List of Plates / Dr. U.N. Roy-Career and Contributions ART Archaic Rock Painting of Sagar District / Bucranium and Horned Figures from Pre and Mature Harappan Culture in the Indian Sub-Continent / Technique of Making Stone Images in Ancient India / Naga Worship in India / Significance of Erotic Sculpture / Gaya Gaj : The Elephant Capital of Bodh Gaya Pillar / Simhanada Lokesvara in the Art of Bihar / Sculpture in the P.C. Mohalanobis Memorial Museum and Archive in Calcutta / Uma-Mahesvara Murti-Silpa in Uttar Pradesh / The Buddhist Stupas of Baghelkhand / Depiction of scenes of Inebriation or Madhupana in the Early Historic Art-with reference to Terracotta-A Study in Transition of a Motif / Metal Crafts of West Bengal in Early Historical Period / Siva-A Rhythmic Reality in Indian Miniatures ARCHAEOLOGY Neolithic Kalimpong / Koldihwa-A Key Site for the Neolithic and Chalcolithic Cultures of the Vindhyas / Excavations at Jhusi : preliminary Observations / Archaeological Excavations and Related works in Bihar / Subjectivity in Archaeological Interpretation / Kapilavastu : The Storm on its Idemtofocatopm / Emerging Perception in the Archaeological study of Bodh Gaya / A Note on the Antiquity of Brahmi / Some Problems of Conservation in Bihar-with Special Reference to the Stucco Panels / Ancient Inscriptions of Gaya Region : A Study / Outline of Buddhism in Bihar based on the Finds of the Archaeological Excavations Carried out in Bihar since independence / A Culture Based on OSTEOKERATIC Artefacts, Unearthed from Pandurajar Dhibi, Burdwan / PART II : POLITICAL, SOCIAL AND CULTURAL HISTORY OF INDIA The Concept of Education in Early India / The Vanaras and Rakshasa in the Valmiki Ramayana / Asoka as a Preacher of Dhamma / Women in the Satavahana and Vakataka Period : Some Glimpses / The Roman Age Writings and the Political History of India / Tolerance in Ancient Indian Society-concept and Practice / Bilateral Cultural Contacts Between India and China / A Glimpse of continuity and Change in the Buddhist Doctrine of Karma / The Soma Plant/Creeper / An Ancient Indian Village / Fresh Light on Sino-Thai Relations / Dharmasvamin's Account as Source for the History of Bihar / Glory of Agra as Depicted by Foreign ravellers / Scholars and Their Lives an dAttainment Under Emperor Jahangir / Burmese Views on Separation Issue and Indian Public Opinion / Aspects of Economic Life in Sarkar Tirhut / Festivals and Vratas in Early Medieval Bihar / Civil Disobedience Movement and Peasants, Workers of Bihar / The First Police Firing on Students in Free India and Its Reprercussions / Mahesh Narayan : Maker of Modern Bihar / The System of University Education in Germany with Special Reference to Indological Studies / Documentation of Tools Related with Textile Industry / A Brief History of the gidhaur Estate / Geomorphology of Middle Ganga Valley / Rise in Literacy Level of Girl Children in Bihar / paintings from Dunhuang in National Museum, New Delhi.

[13]. Arts and Crafts of Indus Civilization by Nandagopal, Choodamani (Introduction by S.R. Rao) 2006, 28 cms., pp. xv+140, ills. col. 5, b/w 117, Aryan Books International , 8173053057, US$ 42.35 or Rs. 1800
The self-conscious Indus people produced something distinct in every field of activity, including art and craft. The Harappan introduced the ceramic wares, metal and lithic tools and regulated trade. The Indus phase of art stands for the originality of form and content which was treated with metaphysical approaches and canonised in the later phases of Indian art history. On the basis of physical features, the territorial extent of the Indus Empire can be divided into four provinces, namely Western, Central, Eastern and Southern provinces. This book draws attention on the ceramic designs, seals, sculpture, jewellery and lapidary in both Provincial and Metropolitan style from the sites like Harappa, Mohenjo-daro, Lothal, Rangpur, Kalibangan, Surkotada, Daimabad and others. This would help our younger generation to read a simple book as tis on the story of the Indus people who have led such a lifestyle and left behind certain innovative creation which are significan even today. The content of the book is simple only to reaffirm our belief in the living tradition which has the fragrance of the by gone era. Contents : Introduction / Approach to Arts and Crafts of Indus Civilization / Ceramic Art / Glyptic Art / Sculpture / Jewellery / Lapidary Art / Epilogue / Bibliography / Index.

[14]. Asoka and the Decline of the Mauryas by Thapar, Romila 2005, 23 cm., pp. 344, maps, Rep., pb, OUP , 019564445X, US$ 5.88 or Rs. 250
First published by the Clarendon Press in 1961, this authoritative work is based largely on the edicts of Asoka, whose policies are analysed against the background of Mauryan civilization during the third and fourth centuries BC - one of the most important periods of Indian civilization. The author offers an interpretation of Asoka's connection with Buddhism and shows how he was able to make use of a general movement of social and spiritual change for the political and moral integration of his Empire. This edition contains an additional map showing sites discovered since 1961, a revised up-to-date Bibliography, a new Index, and an extensive Afterword where the author discusses additions to scholarship in this area since the book's first publication.

[15]. Athens, Aden, Arikamedu : Essays on the Interrelations between India, Arabia and the Eastern Mediterranean by Boussac, Marie-Francoise & Salles, Jean-Francois 2005, 25 cm., pp. 272, Manohar Publishers & Dist. , 8173040796, US$ 14.12 or Rs. 600
This book is a collection of essays by several contributors of international repute on the general topic of the interrelations between India, Arabia and the Eastern Mediterranean. Four papers refer to what can be called "Graeco-India", i.e. the relations between the Greek world itself and India, and the vision the Greeks had of India or borrowed from her, from the early classical period to the late Roman times, mainly seen from the literary sources. A major contribution on the Yavanas in India which provides another version of the Greek presence in India, has also been included. Another essay helps us understand better the history and culture of the Indo-Greek kingdoms through numismatic data. Two papers deal with the archaeological as well as literary evidence on the trade between Rome and India, a subject recently revived both in India and European/American research. Maritime traditions which facilitate understanding of international trade have been studied from an Indian ethnographical point of view. Finally, two contributions emphasize that the Arabian peninsula is the natural bridge between India and the Eastern Mediterranean--a fact so obvious that it is often ignored archaeological and historical studies of the Indian ocean in the pre-Islamic period. The book presents new and original insights on the themes covered.

[16]. Bharatiya Vigyan Manjusha (Treasure Trove of Ancient Indian Sciences) by Sreedharan, M.S. 2005, 25 cm., pp. 942, Publication Division , 8123004265, US$ 14.12 or Rs. 600
Science is a passion for facts and a constant and systematic search for truth. It flourishes in an atmosphere of freedom. Such an atmosphere used to exist in ancient India where the passion for truth seeking could find expression and sustenance. The people of ancient India made immense contributions in the fields of philosophy, religion, pure sciences and technology. This is the reason why India is considered as one of the hot beds of human civilization which has made enormous contribution to enrich the intellectual heritage of mankind. At the end of the first millennium India was at the pinnacle of its glory, when the so called "New World" was not yet discovered and the birth country of Industrial Revolution was not yet well known to the world. The encyclopedia is the outcome of the sustained work put in for several years by the well known author Shri M.S. Sreedharan in collecting, collating and writing up the information and prevailing ancient sciences in the form of a thesaurus. This work is a glowing tribute to the erudite scholarship of the author, who is not amidst us any more. This book will be a great guide and source of inspiration for the readers, specially the youth of India.

[17]. Brahmi Script : An Invention of the Early Maurya Period by Goyal, S.R. 2006, pp. xx+140, Kusumanjali Book World , US$ 14.12 or Rs. 600
The origin of Brahmi script is one of the most ticklish problems of ancient Indian history. Coupled with this problems is the question of the prevalence of the art of writing in the post-Indus -pre-Asokan period. Earlier it was believed that the knowledge of the art of writing in India was caused by the greek of the West Asian impact. Later, its was proposed that Asokan Brahmi was the end-result of the evolution of the Indus script. The author of the present monograph Professor S.R. Goyal has, however, sought to prove that barring the north-western regions, which were aware of the scripts prevalent in Iran, the art of writing was unknown in pre-Asokan India and that Brahmi was invented after the visit of Megasthenes to the Maurya court (c. 300 B. C.) and before the Asokan edicts were engraved (c. 260 B.C.). Professor Goyal propouned this view in his Presidential Address also, delivered to the Silver Jubilee Congress of at he All-India Epigraphical Society held at Udupi April 1999. It is a revolutionary suggestion which is bound to make historians, epigraphists and palaeographists sit up and think. Contents : The Problem / Orality and Literacy in the Vedic and Early Buddhist Society / Creation of Brahmi in the Early Maurya Period / Megasthenes onthe Absence of the Art of Writing in India / Absence of Regional Variations in the Asokan Brahmi and Its Implications / Nature of Brahmi and Role of Sanskrit Grammar in Its Creation / Supposed Connection of Indus and Brahmi Scripts and Graffiti Marks / Supposedly Pre-Asokan Brahmi Coin-Legends and Epigraphs / Was Tamil Brahmi the Parent of Asokan Brahmi? / Our Supporters and Critics / Survey of Other Theories and Conclusion.

[18]. Central Asia : From the Aryan to the Cossack by Hutton, James 2005, 23 cm., pp. viii+472, Manas Publications , 8170492661, US$ 18.71 or Rs. 795
The scholarly work starts with the geographical background of the many countries located background of the many countries located in the much varied region of Central Asia - bounded roughly on the west by Caspian sea, on the south by Persia (now Iran), Afghanistan, India and Tibet, on the east by Chinese Empire and on the north by the river Irtish. It then, goes on to describe the early history, various dynasties, kingdoms, war and peace between the kings from time to time, inhabitants and their customs, migration of population, important adventures, routes, etc. etc.

[19]. Crossings : Early Mediterranean Contacts with India by Romanis, F. De & Tchernia, A. (Eds.) 2005, 23 cm., pp. 284, Manohar Publishers & Dist. , 8173041946, US$ 13.53 or Rs. 575
Relationships between East and West have always fascinated historians of Greece and Rome, whether ancient or modern. Roman trade with India, which took off massively in the first century CE and continued actively over several centuries, proved immensely alluring and profitable to ancient Roman investors, bankers and merchant-mariners but disturbing to moralists, who viewed the haemorrhage of Western wealth to the East with deep foreboding. Modern Euro-centric scholarship has until the recent past been pre-occupied with Greco-Roman sources and the problems the posed. But in the last few decades Indian archaeology, literature and history have added new dimensions and stimulated radical reappraisals of the routes to India and Sri Lanka, the trading networks in both the Indian and Roman world and the impact of such trade on the Roman and Indian economies. This book collects and translates into English some of the studies that have been recently published by French and Italian scholars. It also includes a specially contributed overview by the eminent Indian historian Romila Thapar that demonstrates how far the ethnocentric vision of Indo-Roman history has shifted. The intention is to open up European scholarship to Indian scholars and encourage the on going dialogue between scholars on both sides of the Indian Ocean.

[20]. Discovery of North East India : Geography, History, Culture, Religion, Politics, Sociology, Science, Education and Economy, 11 Vols. by Sharma, S. K. & Sharma, Usha (Eds.) 2005, 23 cm., pp. xix+3683, Set, Mittal Publications , 8183240348, US$ 258.82 or Rs. 11000
Volume 1 : NORTH-EAST INDIA - A PANORAMIC VIEW : Preface / The North-East Frontier - The Land, The People and Their Early History / Iran and Eastern India / "Types of Land in North-Eastern India" (From 4th century to 7th century A.D.) / Stemming of the Tide of Muslim Conquest in Eastern India / Geographical and Historical Background / The Military Operations of 1824-5 on the North-East Frontier of India / The Early Phase of the Resistance Movement in the North-East Frontier (1828-30) / The North-East Frontier Policy of Sir John Lawrence (1864-68) / Notes on the Northern and Southern Boundary Rivers of the North-East Frontier, the Sanpo and the Irrawaddi / Alpines in Eastern India / Ancient Popular Festivals in North-East India / The "Basket" Beauty of N-E India / A Note on a Tour of the North-Eastern Frontier Areas (19th to 25th October, 1952) / Protect our Borders / The Problems of India's North-East Frontier / Explosions in the North-East / Balanced Regional Development / Meaning of Education / Development of the North-Eastern Region / Policing in the North-East / Centres of Integrated Thought and Action / Inaugural Address by Shri P.A. Sangma, Speaker, Lok Sabha at the Regional Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference for North Eastern Region of India / Inaugural Address by the Speaker, Lok Sabha Shri G.M.C. Balayogi at the Second North-East Region Commonwealth Parliamentary Association Conference / Inaugural Address by the Speaker, Lok Sabha, Shri G.M.C. Balayogi at the Third North-East Region Commonwealth Parliamentary Association Conference / Inaugural Address by the Speaker, Lok Sabha, Shri G.M.C. Balayogi at the Orientation Programme for the Members of the Mizoram Legislative Assembly / Inaugural Address by the Speaker, Lok Sabha, Shri G.M.C. Balayogi at the Fourth North-East Region Commonwealth Parliamentary Association Conference / Inaugural Address by the Speaker, Lok Sabha Shri G.M.C. Balayogi at the Fifth North-East Region Commonwealth Parliamentary Association Conference / North-East India - A Statistical Survey / Distribution of Population by Religion and their percentage to Total Population at India/State/Union Territory Level as per 1991 Census / Index. Volume 2 : ARUNACHAL PRADESH (NEFA) : Preface / The North-East Frontier Agency / The NEFA Divisions and the People / Land People / Genesis and Evolution of Administration in Arunachal Pradesh / Arunachal Pradesh - The Land of Dawn-lit Mountains / Arunachal - A Jewel in Himalayan Crown / Historical Ruins in Arunachal / Foundations and Structure of Society / Social Life / Social Life / Social Aims in NEFA / Social Life / Social Life / Myths and Legends of Arunachal Tribes / The Duty of the University / Cultural Identity / Arunachal Hosts International Angling Festival / Festivals of Arunachal Pradesh / Religious Aims in NEFA / Religion / Religion and Ceremonies / Religion and Magic / Inauguration of New States / Arunachal Pradesh, Treasure-Trove of Medicinal Plants / Medicinal Plants of Arunachal Pradesh / Glossary / Index. Volume 3 : ASSAM (GEOGRAPHY AND ANCIENT HISTORY) / Preface / Origin of Word Assam / History and Geography of Assam / Upper Assam Report - Topographical and Political / Seventeenth Century Portuguese Travellers in Assam / An Expedition in the Highlands of Assam / The Assam Frontier Problem / Rukmani Nagar / Assam / In the Surma Valley / Prehistoric and Traditional Rulers / Aryanisation of East India (Assam) / Genealogical Lists of the Pragjyotisa Dynasties / Extent of Pragjyotisa / Was Kautilya an Easterner? / Harsa and Bhaskaravarman / Kamarupa and Vajrayana / The Kamarupa Era / Kamarupa in the Markandeya-Purana / Dates of Some Assam Dynasties / Copper-Plate Inscription of Bhaskaravarman / Copper-Plate Inscription of Harjaravarman / First Copper-Plate Inscription of Dharmapala / Second Copper-Plate Inscription of Dharmapala / Translation of an Old Copper-Plate Inscription / New Lights on the History of Assam / New Lights on the History of Assam / New Lights on the History of Assam / The Common Ancestry of the Pre-Ahom Rulers and Some other Problems of the Early History of Assam / The Ahom System of Government / Explanation of Titles of the Ahom Kings and Nobles / The Military System of the Ahoms / Military Strategy of the Ahoms / Description of Ahom Manuscript Records / Formalities Observed by Ambassadors / Ahom Kingship / The Administrative System of thej Ahoms / The Ahom System of Chronology / The Ahom Rule in Assam / Fresh Numismatic Data Relative to History of the Ahom King, Rajesvarasimha of Assam / The Scribe-Engravers of Indrapala's Second Copper-Plate and Prakrit of Pre-Ahom Times / A Note on Assamese Manuscripts / Index. Volume 4 : ASSAM (MEDIEVAL AND MODERN HISTORY) / Preface / The Kingdom of Kamarupa and Kamata in the 14th and 15th Centuries / Swargadeo Rudra Singha, King of Assam (1696-1714 A.D.) / Assamese Buranjis / Notes on Some Sanskrit and Persian Inscriptions of Sylhet / Antiquities of Assam / Some Notes on Assam Coins / Assamese Historical Literature / Assamese Historical Literature / Atan Buragohain Rajmantri Dangaria - A Brief Sketch / Letters of Atan Buragohain / Ramani Gabharu's Letter to Laluk Barphukan / A Brief History of Assam / Mir Jumla's Invasion of Assam / A Contemporary Review of Events, 1662-1682 / Early Relations of the Company with Assam (From the Records of the Imperial Records Dept.) The E.I. Co's Commercial Spirit in the 18th Century - History of Kamarup / The Campaigns of 1824-5 In Assam, Sylhet and Cachar During the First Anglo-Burmese War / British Occupation of Assam / Annexation of Assam / The Effects of the Annexation of the Brahmaputra Valley / The Assam Company Bill - Its Constitutional Importance / Assam in 1857 and Maniram Dewan / Titles and Offices of the Government of Assam / List of Chief Commissioners, Lieutenant-Governors and Governors / List of Executive Councillors and Ministers / Lovely Assam / Conditions In Assam / Officiousness / From the Brahmaputra / In the Brahmaputra Valley / Look After the Border / About Assam / Shillong - the Beauty Spot of North-East India / History of Assam - A Study / Assam of Our Dream / Assam Through the Ages / Shillong / Greater Future for Assam / Assam / On Assam / A Land of Elephants / India's Eastern Frontier / As I know Assam / Democracy in Action / Recent Disturbances in Assam / Assam - Its Past and Future / Assam - India's Unrivalled State / Index. Volume 5 : ASSAM (ECONOMY, SOCIETY AND CULTURE) : Preface / Labour Conditions in Assam / Tea Garden Labourers in Assam / Harijans Manufactured in Tea Estates of Assam / Khaddar in Assam / The Pernicious Effects of the Assam Agricultural Debtors Act / Regional Economy of the Barak Valley (Assam) / Growth of the Tea Industry / Opium in Assam / Opium in Assam / Opium Evil in Assam / The Future Government of the Tribal People / The Deoris / Some Notes on a Policy for the Hill Tribes of Assam / The Aboriginal Tribes of Assam - My Experiences Amongst Them / Austric Race and Assam / The Hill Tribes of Assam / My Impressions of Assam / A Less Pleasant Errand / Assam Tragedy and its Inner Story / On Some Castes and Caste-origins in Sylhet / Hidden Traces of Buddhism in Assam / Later Buddhism in Kamarupa / Religion / Gauhati - The Temple Town of Assam / Slavery in Assam / Human Sacrifices in Assam / Assam Speaks / The People of Assam / Noble Women of Assam / Districtwise Population Percentages of Hindus and Muslims and Other Religions in Assam - 1991 / Fine Arts / Early Painting of Assam / The Kamarupa School of Sculpture / Music in Assam / Assamese Music / Ankiyanaat - Devotional Theatre of Assam / Pre-historic Culture in Assam / Were there Indian Colonists from Assam in Indo-China? / The Cinderella Motif in Assamese Folk-taLes / Folk-Songs / The Bihu-geet (Assamese Pastoral Songs) / Assam - The Land and the Languages / Greater Assam and Languages / Assamese, the Official Language of Assam / The Assamese Language / Prose / Literature / Assamese Literature -Ancient and Modern / Modern Assamese Literature / A Short Account of the Rise and Progress of Journalism in the Assam Valley / Greatness of a University / Agro Climatic Regional Planning - A New Vista Agricultural Development / Our Heritage / Reconciling the Irreconcilables / The Gap Between Plan and Action / The Objective of Our Education / Entrepreneurial and Innovative Education / Knowledge Readiness of a Nation / From the Copying Mode to the Forward Engineering Mode / The Peril and Promise of Higher Education in India / Exemplary Education / Index. Volume 6 : MANIPUR : Preface / Notes on the Early History of Manipur / History / Manipur / An Early Account of "Meckley" / Manipur State / The Manipur Rebellion of 1891 / Manipur / Disorder in Manipur / Maharaja's Proclamation / Council's Review of State Problems / Integration of Manipur / Manipur Satyagraha / Assam's Ties with Manipur / Months, Seasons and Days / Manners and Customs / Religion / Religion of the Meitheis / Manipuri Culture / The Meitheis - Traditions, Superstitions and Folk Tales / Legends and Festivals / A Note on Maygang / Manipuri Sahitya Parishad / Inauguration of New States / Zeliangrong Peoples's Convention / Manipur - A Melting Pot of Culture / Crisis of Civility / Goals of Education / Index. Volume 7 : MEGHALAYA : Preface / Whither the Khasi Hills? / The Frontiers of North-East India / The Khasis / On the Language an Ethnology of the Khasis / Khasi Democracy / A Few Vestiges of Old Tribal Forms in theg Khasi Hills -The Khasi Habitat / Note on the Khasi and Jaintia Hills by the Honourable the Rev. Mr. J.J.M. Nichols-Roy, Minister for Local Self-Government / Geology of Meghalaya / Elevation above the Sea of Various Localities in the Khasi Hills / Inauguration of New States / Statehood for Meghalaya / Inherent Strength of the Indian People / Sub-Regional Workshop on Panchayati Raj Inaugural Address / Meghalaya / Meghalaya Elections / Glossary / Index Volume 8: MIZORAM : Preface / Geography and Ethnology of Chin-Lushai Land / The Lushai Expedition 1871-1872 / Military Report on the Chin-Lushai Country / Folk-Lore / Lakher Folklore / Laws and Customs / Religion and Culture / The Old Kuki Clans / Family and Branches of the Lushai Clan / Dynastic Table of the Pytoo Chief Lalchukla / Geneology of the Lushai Ruling Family / Pedigree of the Lushai Chiefs of Cachar Frontier / List of Lakher Clans / Clannish Picture of the Mizo Tribes / Language / Genius of the Mizo People / The Aijal Market - Mizo Hills, Assam / Inauguration of New States / Mizoram - A Stormy Era Ends / Mizoram Accord - A Surrender / Mizoram - An Accord on Wheels / List of Bureaucratic Functionaries of the Government of Mizoram as in 1991 / Evolution of Legislative Assembly System in Mizoram - Intr-Relation Between the Legislature, Executive and Judiciary / Eighth Assembly Election to the 40-member Mizoram Legislative Assembly November 25, 1998 / Mizoram - The Exotic Land of Highlanders / Glossary / Index. Volume 9 : NAGALAND : Preface / History and Geography of the District of the Naga Hills / Eastern Naga Report - Topographical and Political / Physical Features / Naga Hills / History / The Nagas in History / Naga Queen of Assam / Naga Demand for Independence / Statement Made by the Prime Minister of India in the Parliament in English and its Different Naga Versions / Evaluation of Nagaland - A Territorial Naga Hills] / The Naga Tribes / First Military Expeditions to Naga Hills / The Naga Hills / The Ways of the Nagas / The Naga Tribes on Our Frontier / The Semas / The Spring Festival / Religion and Magic / Love and Poetry / The Nagas / Creation of the State of Nagaland / Zeliangrong People's Convention Assam, Nagaland & Manipur / A Dialogue with Nagaland / Districtwise Literacy Rates of Nagaland / Number of Different Tribal Language Speakers, Illiterates, Literates and their Literacy Rates of the Nagaland / Places of Interest / Kohima - Nature's Chosen Spot / Set Your Goal High / Glossary / Index Volume 10 : SIKKIM : Preface / Sikhim and Bhutan / Sikhim / Sikhim Proper / Memorandum of a Few Routes in Sikhim / Hooker and Tamphell in Sikkim / Reminiscences / India, China and Sikkim -1886-1890 / The Modern History of Sikkim / Sikkim and Bhutan - An Historical Conspectus / Demonolatry / The Religions of Sikkim / Sikkim - The Buddhist Shangrila / Marriage Customs of the Sikhimese / Sikhim Laws / Sikhim Development Plan / Sikkim - The Chinese Ultimatum / Coronations of Sikkim / Some Messages Received on the Auspicious Occasion of Ser-Thri-Nga-Sol of the Chogyal / Foreign Press Review / Sikkim - CPI(M)'s Stand / Various Important Departments / Rivers of Sikkim / Elevation and Distances of the Military Gateway / Dedication, Devotion and Knowledge / Sikkim - Places of Interest / Religion - A Statistical Survey / Glossary / Index. Volume 11 : TRIPURA : Preface / Descendants of Lunar Dynasty / History of the Tripura Raj / The Ancient Tripura Kingdom in the Kapili Valley / A Peep into a Glorious Chapter of Past History / Mughul Inroads / An Assamese Chronicle of Tripura / History of the Tripura Raj - English Period / Genealogical Table of the Rulers of the Tripura State / List of the Rajas of Tripura / Rules for the Grant of Exploring and Prospecting Licenses and Mining Leases in the Tripura State / Tripura / Tipperah Tribes / Tagore and Tripura / A Report on an Enquiry into the Family Living of the Tea Plantation Workers in Tripura - Extracts / Some Population Characteristics of Tripura State / Inauguration of New States / Report of the Committee on Privileges 1972-73 / Assault on Parliamentary Democracy in Tripura - Communist Party of India (Marxist) / Tripura - Nature's Blissful Solitude / Glossary / Index.

[21]. Early Harappans and Indus Saraswati Civilization, 2 Vols. by Sharma, D.P. and Sharma, Madhuri (Eds.) 2006, 29 cms., pp. xvi+533, col pls. 53, figs. 68, Kaveri Book Service , 8174790721, US$ 105.88 or Rs. 4500
According to a scholar the Harappan Civilization is the gift of two rivers - the Indus and Sarasvati whose tributaries had played a dominant and decisive role in the origin of this bronze civilization. As of now around 2658 Harappan and its associated sites have been reported, of which 1058 sites are located in the dried-up bank of the Sarasvati river. The Sarasvati was a mighty river between ca. 5000 and 1800 B.C. Around ca. 1800 B.C., due to neo-tectonic movements in the Himalayas, the river started drying up. It flowed down from the Himalayas to Adi Badri towards Desalpur in Gujarat. This work is a collection of forty research papers contributed by the noted scholars and historians from India and abroad. Volume-I contains nineteen papers which includes introduction, the origin of Harappan, and Early Harappan village chalcolithic cultures. Volume-II covers on Indus Sarasvati Civilization and includes twenty-one papers on the Mature Indus Sarasvati Civilization which contain controversial and clashing views. Available archaeological evidences suggest the Atharvavedic and Mature Harappan were contemporary and they had contacts with each other. The Atharvavedic people were the authors of the copper hoard culture. The nomenclature, either of Harappan, Indus or Indus Sarasvati civilization hardly matters as the meaning of these are the same. This has been confirmed on the basis of the available archaeological evidences. Bound in two volumes, the papers with notes, references and bibliography are well illustrated and grouped in three parts, i.e., Introduction; Early Harappans; and Indus-Sarasvati Controversies. Contents: Volume.I: Part-I: Introduction: (1) Harappan Civilization/ D P Sharma; (2) South Asian Archaeology: Some Issues/ D P Agrawal; Part-II: Early Harappans: (3) New Discoveries Point to a Southern Origin: Gulf of Cambay/ David Frawley & Navratna Rajaram; (4) World's Oldest Lost Civilization Found in South Asia/ Raj Chengapa; (5) Early Neolithic Settlement in Bannu, Pakistan/ J R Knox, Farid Khan & K D Thomas; (6) Sheri Khan Tarakai: Excavation in Bannu District, N W F P/ J R Knox, Farid Khan & K D Thomas; (7) Origin of the Harappan Civilization/ D P Sharma; (8) Origin of Harappan Civilization and Mehrgarh Excavations/ Jean Francois Jarrige; (9) Earliest Agriculture in the Kachi Plain (Mehrgarh)/ Lorenzo Costantini; (10) Early Harappan Remains, Pottery and Artifacts at Nausharo/ Anaick Samzun; (11) Early Harappan Ceramics/ D P Sharma; (12) Petrographic Analysis of Early Harappan Ceramics of South Asia (ca. 3500-2700 B.C.)/ Graham M Chandler; (13) Padri: The Early Harappan Site in Gujarat/ Vasant Shinde; (14) Early Harappans in Gujarat/ Abhijit Majumdar; (15) Ochre Coloured Ceramics and the Early and Mature Harappans/ R C Gaur; (16) 5th-4th Millennium Dating Rigveda Culture/ Shivaji Singh; (17) Indo-European Homeland: An Indian Perspective/ D N Tripathi; (18) Dhalewan Early-Mature Harappan Excavated Site in Punjab (India)/ Madhubala & Vishnu Kant; (19) Transformation of the Harappan Civilization/ G L Possehl; Volume 2: Part-III: Indus-Sarasvati Controversies: (20) Indus and Sarasvati in History, Geology and Archaeology/ S P Gupta; (21) Archaeology of Sarasvati/ B B Lal; (22) Origins of the Indus-Sarasvati Civilization/ S P Gupta; (23) Harappans and Rigveda/ R S Bisht; (24) Harappan: Vedic Civilization/ Suman Pandya; (25) The Harappans, Sarasvati and Rigveda/ T P Verma; (26) Rigvedic and Harappan Connections/ Shivaji Singh; (27) The Mahabharat for Harappan Civilization/ S P Gupta; (28) Sarasvati and Harappan Archaeology/ Vedagya Arya; (29) Vedic Harappans/ N S Rajaram; (30) Archaeology Cannot 'Prove' the Vedas/ Nayanjot Lahiri & Upender Singh; (31) Rational Approach to the Rigveda and Indus Civilization/ Malati J Shende; (32) Indus Seals and Atharvaveda/ P V Pathak; (33) Notes on Flora and Fauna in the Rigveda/ B B Lal; (34) Technology Transfer in 4th Millennium B.C. in Bannu Basin/ K D Thomas, J R Knox and Farid Khan; (35) Third Millennium Painted Grey Wares in Pakistan and Iran/ Rita P Wright; (36) Sarasvati: River and Civilization/ N S Rajaram; (37) Harappan Language and Script/ N S Rajaram; (38) Vedic Harappans and the Horse Symbolism/ N S Rajaram and J Jha; (39) Harappan Occupation at Nausharo/ Jean-Francois Jarrige; (40) Collapse of the Sarasvata Sabhyata: An Elegy in Mahabharata/ Arun Kumar

[22]. Early History of the Dekkan : Down to the Mohammedan Conquest by Bhandarkar, R.G. 2005, 25 cm., pp. 154, Rep., Asian Educational Services , 8120601203, US$ 6.94 or Rs. 295

[23]. Early Indian Coins from Sugh by Handa, Devendra 2005, 25 cm., pp. xiii+157, pls., figs., maps, Sundeep Prakashan , 8175741619, US$ 28.24 or Rs. 1200
This book presents an account of the early Indian coins found from Sugh, the ancient S )S_ rughna, an extensive and very important archaeological site of Haryana located about 5 km east of Jagadhari/Yamunanagar on the old bed of the river Yamuna where it debouched into the plains from the Shiwalki hills of the Himalayas. Naturally protected on three sides by a bend of the river it occupied a very strategic position on the ancient trade route connecting the Ganga valley with the western world. Silver coins struck on the half karshapana (16 ratti) weight standard found from Sugh and in its vicinity can undoubtedly be attributed to the Kur Mahajanapada. It is for the first time that a hoard of a new series of the minuscule silver coins from this place has been brought to light. These coins conform to 4 ratti weight standard and represent the pada or quarter denomination of the above-mentioned coins. Unlike most other minuscule coins these pieces have silver core and contain fairly high silver content. Un-inscribed cast copper coins have also been found from Sugh in substantial numbers and so also the Imperial five-symbol punch-marked silver coins. Two hoards containing respectively two and one Indo-Greek coins and some stray pieces recovered from the site have also been described and their importance discussed. Copper and lead coins bearning the early Brami legend Kadasa are known since long but their exact provenance was not known. New evidence established beyond doubt that Sugh is the provenance of these coins. The monarchical nature of these issues have also been established. Coins of the descendants of Kada including the Mitra-ending rulers are published for the first time together with the earliest octagonal lead coins of India. New data the analysis of the tribal coins, particularly the Kunindas and the Yaudheyas, has also been presented. Contents : Introduction / Sugh / Coins of the Kuru Mahajanapada / Minuscule Silver coins / Punch-Marked and Indo-Greek coins / Uninscribed Cast Copper Coins / Kada Coins / Coins of Sujyeshtha / Lead Coins of the Mitras / Tribal Coins / Resume / Bibliography

[24]. Economic History of Ancient India by Ojha, Geeta 2005, 22 cm., pp. viii+336, Shri Sai Printographers , 8187798513, US$ 16.35 or Rs. 695
The aim in this book is to present a brief general survey of Economic History of the Ancient India from the earliest time to the middle of Seventh century. The book consists of twelve chapters. The first chapter deals with geological background of ancient Indian history. The second chapter makes a survey of the Indus Valley civilization. From third chapter to eighth chapter, it is a discussion of the economic conditions of early Indian agriculture, peasants, taxation, system of land tenure, the method of cultivation and of irrigation are all dealt with comprehensively as well as the Arthashastra and the Classic age. In last four chapters, life and condition of Indian people from Gupta period to Harsha has been discussed in details. In the Gupta period, the guilds regained their full autonomy, and became powerful and played a significant role in the socio-economic life of the country and it's expansion in South East Asia. The book, will, it is earnestly hoped, be found to be helpful not only to the advanced students of our universities but also to the general reader.

[25]. Gleanings From India : Cultural Historical Political and Social by Asopa, J.N. 2005, Universal Scientific Publishers , US$ 17.65 or Rs. 750
The present book is the result of a enquiring mind and the fruition there of from time to time. The first chapter is the result of an old enquiry and academic thirst to know about the ancient social system of the Brahmanas. The second chapter is an effort to know he truth abou the myth-clouded sage Dadhichi and his scions. The third fourth, fifth, sixth and seventh chapters are enquiry into environment as existed in ancient times i.e. seas, deserts, rivers and the people of Rajasthan and India. The eighth and ninth chapters deal with socio-political term Olaga and reappraisal of serfdorm in early medieval India. The tenth chapter deals with religious and philosophical ideas of the greated poetess of medieval India i.e. Mira. The eleventh, twelth, thirteenth and fourteenth chapters deal with the social milieu of the bards, Rathors, Mers and Jains. The fifteenth and sixteenth chapters are about historigraphy of Marwar. I hope this book would reveal deep historical truht envisaged by the author.

[26]. Hari Smiriti : Studies in Art, Archaeology and Indology, 2 Vols. (Papers Presented in Memory of Dr. H Sarkar) by Banerji, Arundhati 2006, 29 cm., pp. xxviii+575, col. & b/w pls., ills., Set, Kaveri Books Service , 8174790756, US$ 112.94 or Rs. 4800
This collection of sixty-one papers contributed by the scholars from India and abroad is in memory of Dr. H Sarkar who retired as Jt. Director General, Archaeological Survey of India. He is very well known for his invaluable contribution to the field of archaeology. The papers included herein are the outcome of researches done on art, architecture, iconography, epigraphy, numismatic, archaeological explorations and excavations, antiquities and museums, conservation and heritage management over the years besides reminiscences. Foreword by Dr. Kapila Vatsyayan Volume 1: Section-I: Haribishnu Sarkar: Reminicenses and Tribute: (1) My Friend Sarkar/ M A Dhaky; (2) Dr. Haribishnu Sarkar: A Gentleman Scholar/ B D Chattopadhyaya; (3) Dr. H Sarkar/ B M Pande; (4) A Tribute to Sri H Sarkar/ V V Krishna Sastry; (5) Dr. H Sarkar: In the Footsteps of Sri Amalananda Ghosh/ Amar Narth Khanna; (6) Dr. Haribishnu Sarkar: A Tribute/ Purnima Ray. Section- II: Art & Iconography: (1) Devaraja in Cambodian History/ Lokesh Chandra; (2) An Estimate of Gupta Terracottas/ P K Agrawala; (3) "The Amaravati Master: Spatial Conventions in the Art of Amaravati/ Elizabeth Rosem Stone; (4) Main Stupa, Udayagiri (Orissa))/ Debala Mitra; (5) The Temple Fragments from Kaveripakkam/ M A Dhaky; (6) Buddhism in the Deccan During the Satavahana Age/ Ajay Mitra Shastri; (7) Some Remarks on the Freer Panels/ Dirk W Lonne; (8) Ajanta's History/ Walter M Spink; (9) Saptartnas in Buddhism: Their Origin, Function and Depictions/ Mallar Mitra; (10) Pattan Munara: Minar or Mandir?/ Michael W Meister; (11) Early Stone Sculptures of Tripurantaka in South India/ Gerd J R Mevissen; (12) A Unique Sivalinga from Navile and Some Cultural Issues/ A Sundara; (13) The Nolamba Style and Vijayanagara Archaizing: The Bhoganandisvara Compound at Nandi, Karnataka/ Andrew L Cohen; (14) A 12th Century Hoysala Image of Siva Gajasurasamharamurti from the Amritesvara Temple, Amritapura/ Kirsti Evans; (15) A Newly Discovered Visvarupa Image from Haryana/ Devendra Handa; (16) Hero Stones at Pushpagiri/ D Hanumantha Rao; (17) Art of the Paramaras of Vagada/ P K Trivedi; (18) Brahma Image from Elephanta/ B V Shetti; (19) Tripurantaka Siva (Destroyer of Three Cities)/ R Nagaswamy; (20) Two Rare Images of Mahachandaroshana from Antichak/ B S Verma; (21) From Graha Vinayaka to Siddhi Vinayaka/ V V Krishna Sastry (22) Courtesans and Tantric Consorts: Female Sexuality and Fertility in Indo-Tibetan Buddhist Biographies/ Serinity Young; (23) Surya Sculptures from Hampi/ K M Suresh; (24) Bull in Banas Culture/ Arundhati Banerji. Section-III: Architecture: (25) Art and Architecture of Tulumadu/ H R Raghunath Bhat; (26) Inter-Relations in Regional Schools of Indian Architecture/ Krishna Deva; (27) Roman Influence of Indian Architecture: A Reassessment/ D R Das; (28) Behati: New Light on Gupta Architecture in Madhya Pradesh/ D Dayalan; (29) Samidhesvara Temple, Chittorgarh/ B L Nagarch; (30) A Star Shaped Vimana at Hiresinganagutti/ Shrinivas V Padigar; (31) The Virupaksha Temple at Pattadakal: Did Pallava Architecture Build it?/ S Rajasekhara; (32) The Intercultural Relationship of the Sacred Architecture in Travancore/ Falk Reitz. Volume 2: Section-IV: Archaeology: (33) The Left-over of Palaeolithic Man in and around Betwa River Valley, U P/Sangita Chakraborty & Nayan Ananda Chakraborty; (34) Aspects of Prehistoric Astronomy in India/N Kameswara Rao; (35) Recent Exploration along the Narmada/V Shivananda; (36) Neolithic Ceramic Industries of North-Eastern and Central-Eastern India/J S Nigam; (37) Harappan Landscape of Western India/ M K Dhavalikar; (38) Who were the Aryans?/Sursi M Vikram & Arun Kumar; (39) Namana: Chalcolithic Settlement in Hadoti Region of Rajasthan/D N Dimri & Rajendra Yadav; (40) Current Perspectives on the Megalithic Culture of South India/ Udayaravi S Moorti; (41) Iron Technology in Eastern India: Archaeometallurgical Studies/ Pranab K Chattopadhyay; (42) Archaeological Investigations in District Sravasti, Uttar Pradesh/ D P Tewari & B K Pandey; (43) Excavations at Sarnath: Some Reflections regarding Early Phase, Stratigraphy and Architecture/B R Mani; (44) The Kunindas and their Archaeology in Garhwal Himalaya/ B M Khanduri; (45) Recent Excavation at Udayagiri: A Revelation/ Bimal Bandyopadhyay; (46)"Colonial Indology" and Some Non-Indian Critics/ Dilip K Chakrabarti. Section-V: Epigraphy & Numismatics: (47) Two Donations in Favour of the Mahasanghikas of Mathura/ Gouriswar Bhattacharya; (48) Agriculture and Industries as Gleaned from Place Names in Kalachuri Inscriptions/Malati Mahajan; (49) Maharashtraka-traya of Aihole Prasasti/Ishikawa Kan; (50) Literature under Devaraya-II of Vijayanagara (AD 1426-1446)/C T M Kotraiah; (51) Rohilkhand: An Epigraphical Study/M Ilyas Quddusi; (52) A Unique Gold Coin/ Murtaja Baseer. Section-VI: Antiquities & Museums: (53) "Cultural Patrimony and Heritage" with special reference to Retrieval and Preservation of Cultural Property/L K Srinivasan; (54) Protection of Cultural Property vis-a-vis Antiquarian Legislation and People in India/C B Patil; (55) Beginning of Museums and Museum Movement in India/ I K Sharma; Section-VII: Conservation & Heritage Management: (56) Archaeological Conservation in India/ M C Joshi; (57) Concept of Preservation-Conservation in Ancient Days/K K Ramamurthy; (58) Foundations of the Taj Mahal/ R Sengupta; (59) Monument Management and Urbanization: A Case Study of Bhubaneswar/ N James. Section-VIII: Miscellaneous: (60) Bareilly Through 1857-58/M Yaseen Quddusi; (61) Not Very Long Ago/Ajit Kumar Dutta.

[27]. Harsha : A Multidisciplinary Political Study by Goyal, Shankar 2006, pp. xxii+383, Kusumanjali Book World , US$ 20.00 or Rs. 850
Contents : Chapter 1 : Changing Attitudes of Historians to the History of Harsha and the Need of a Multidisciplinary Integral Approach / Chapters 2 : Sources for the Political History of the Age of Harsha : Their Reliability and Importance / Appendix 1 : The Recently Discovered Kurukshetra- Varanasi Grant of Harsha : Year 23 / Appendix 2 : The Life of Yuan Chwang / Appendix 3 : Approximate Chronology of Yuan Chwang's Travels / Chapter 3 : Political Background