History of a people is the story of their culture. Traditions are as relevant to it as any inscribed or excavated testimony. India’s ancient past is seen exclusively in relation to Indo-Gangetic plains and Himalaya is dismissed as an inconsequential borderland. Dr. Kashyap’s study shows that it is precisely this great mountain that has been the cradle and the most creative workshop of Indian culture. Preserved in its hoary fairs and rituals are pre-Rigvedic and early-Rigvedic traditions which open up an entirely new vista for a reappraisal of ancient India. In them we find history unfold itself and culture evolve over countless years into a great urban civilisation. They bring us face to face with living proof of continuity of Indian culture, help outline its chronology and sort out Vedic-Harappan tangle. The author leads us to an amazing panorama. We see Indra and Vrtra in mortal conflict over possession of fire and control over water and also the birth of a multi-dimensional universal myth. We meet people called Sisnadevah and the ones deified as Maruts. We witness Purusamedha performed in settlements of Harappan immigrants. We come across gods responding to polite invitations and urgent summons of their devotees; join them in Sura Soma drinking sessions and sumptuous feasts. We enjoy their company on hazardous journeys along banks of the Saptsindhus to reach (Arabian) sea and across high ridges and passes to shake hands with neighbours in Iran and Central Asia.
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