India is not just a geographical entity, but a vast nation of cultural consciousness

History, derived from “Iti,” “Ha,” and “As,” signifies “It certainly happened.”

- BHUPENDRA SHARMA

The subject of history involves the documented portrayal of humanity’s past. We possess the world’s most extensive literature, which forms our cultural heritage. As Kashmiri writer Kalhan also noted, the truly praiseworthy poet-historian is one who, rising above bias, employs language solely for the purpose of truth. The ancient Indians were aware of history and had a keen interest in it, viewing it within a broad context.

P.L. Gautam from Kota has undertaken the exemplary task of writing about our cultural heritage’s historical material, blending new explorations and modern research-based facts. This makes it useful for civil service and state service exams’ general studies, as well as for university students and discerning readers, addressing their curiosity and helping to enhance their general knowledge. It provides interesting information about art, literature, cultural heritage, civilization, and rulers, incorporating aspects related to traditional politics, society, economy, art, and religion. It also includes the gradual development of language, the Bhakti movement in the South, the development of science and technology, Indian philosophy and traditions, and the early form of the art of coin minting. The authenticity of these new explorations and modern research-based facts is maintained, making this book an encyclopedic work on ancient Indian history, thereby naturally increasing its credibility.

In writing this book, the author has utilized primary texts such as the Vedas, Upanishads, Jain-Buddhist scriptures, and the Arthashastra.