Logo

Synopsis The present work entitled, Cultural History of Bundelkhand from 3rd c B.C. to A.D. 650 opens with an “Introduction” to the pre-history and proto-history of the region. The next chapter, “Historical Background” presents a brief account of the history of the region from the Asokan era to the end of the reign period of Harshavardhana. Very little work has been done on the early history of the Bundelkhand region. An attempt has been made here to give a brief sketch of the early history of Bundelkhand, based on the literary as well as archaeological sources known so far. The early social, economic and religious history of the region is written based on early inscriptions, coins, literary evidences as well as the excavated archaeological material from the region. The dress and ornaments worn by the people during different periods are gleaned through the sculptures and terracotta figurines which reflect the traits and traditions of early times. The early art and architecture of Bundelkhand has been dealt at length by citing examples from different sites and by explaining the socio-economic causes for their spontaneous growth. The interchange of ideas, concepts and forms of art with those of the other regions, which added extra flesh and blood to the growth and development of the art of Bundelkhand, have also been critically analysed. It also contains illustrations of important monuments, sculptures and other art forms to substantiate the view held by the author. The present treatise is thus, the first concerted effort to bring to lime-light the early cultural history of Bundelkhand in its proper form and perspective.