A scholarly study of the rich cultural heritage of Birbhum, it offers delightful visual experiences by taking the readers to the temples and religious sites belonging to the ancient, mediaeval and early modern periods of our history. Besides assigning Birbhum the pride of place amidst the architectural glories of the past, the author assesses the impact of Muhammedan and European art on the structural pattern of temples in the District. Based mainly on three sources, viz, temples and icons, religious and secular literatures and museum and private collections of inscriptions, coins, sculptures etc., it attempts to discern the religious and ritualistic aspects of the sacred sites and structures, as also the influence they exercised on the contemporary society at different points of time in Indian history. The interesting details on legends, rituals, fairs and festivals connected with the various temples and deities bear evidences of due authenticity made possible by the author’s personal interviews with the priests and other aged and educated people of the area. By integrating the structural richness of the district with its social and religious history, the book presents a complete picture of the cultural life of Birbhum. As not much attention appears to have been paid to this part, the present study will be a treasure-trove for students and scholars of art, architecture and history.
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