Him-Kanti: Archaeology, Art and History

Included here are 38 articles covering wide-ranging themes from quaternary period, palaeontology, Indian pre-, proto-, ancient, and medieval history, ancient Indian art, iconography, epigraphy, Himalayan archaeology, multidisciplinary archaeology, and ethnography. Contributed by reputed scholars and area-specialists, these pieces also exemplify ongoing studies in Indian archaeology and history. Among many other specificities, the authors focus on human adaptation in the Vindhyas during quaternary period, the mesolithic cultures of the Vindhyas, recently-found mesolithic sites in Goa, rock-painting sites in Garhwal Himalaya, megalithic burial complexes in mid-Central Himalaya, mural paintings in India’s Buddhist caves, Central Himalayan folklores, conceptual and iconographic developments of the Siva Linga, pottery-making tradition in Garhwal Himalaya, pottery dressing/decorations in ancient India, blood group archaeology, and the status of historical archaeology since India’s independence. A befitting tribute to Professor Nautiyal’s lifelong contribution to archaeological research, the festschrift has been titled as Him-Kanti (Glory of Himalaya) to suggest not only his specialized interest in the Himalaya, but his persevered effort to highlight the Himalayan glory as well. Professor Nautiyal, currently Vice-Chancellor, HNB Garhwal University, Srinagar (Garhwal), UP — where he also headed the Department of Ancient Indian History, Culture and Archaeology (1986-91), is a recipient of many academic awards/honours. And is reputed for his numerous archaeological excavations in different parts of India and widely published writings: books, reports and research papers. The volume editors, Dr B M Khanduri and Dr Vinod Nautiyal are senior faculty members in the Department of History, Culture and Archaeology, HNB Garhwal University, Srinagar, Garhwal, India.