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Synopsis The present book is the first major work dealing exhaustively with the unique institution of dana. What exactly is comprehended by the terms dana and daksina at different points of time? Why and how did the institution acquire its rigid formalised character? How far was its development linked with changes in material culture? What was its relevance to ancient society? What role did it play in exchange and redistribution? Did it affect the social and economic order in any significant manner? The author answers all these and many other questions relating to dana. Adopting a multidisciplinary approach, the author has marshalled considerable evidence to support her arguments and findings. While discussing developments in the practice of dana, she also considers at great length such issues as the motives for making dana, the source of gifts made by women and monks, the origins of beggary, the impact of the growth of the patriarchal family and property right on gift-items, and the rationale behind dana ritualism.