Early Indian Symbols: Numismatic Evidence

Art and Religion are two characteristic manifestations of any civilization and a study of these aspects is in fact a real peep in the life of the people and society, both in time and space. Symbols have always represented an important and revealing expression of Art and Beliefs. These continue to do so even now. In the Indian context, the symbols are usually assigned specific sectarian affiliations but the present study shows that it is not always so as the symbols have different contextual meaning and transce-dental character. An endeavour has been made in the book "Early Indian Symbols : Numismatic Evidences" to make a detailed study and critical assessment of the origin and development of some of the important symbols, such as, Surya, Svastika, Chakra, Srivatsa etc. While Numismatic evidences have been thoroughly examined, other archaeological materials and literary sources have also been referred to in support of the book. The development of forms of different symbols have been classified and shown through charts and tables. The inclusion of some of the anthropomorphic forms of early Indian and foreign deities have further added to the value of this book. In view of its scientific presentation based on intensive analysis, the book is an important and significant contribution in the. field of Indian history and culture in all its wider ramifications.