Notes and Study material for Exams
The Kushanas: Short introduction In the early 2nd century BC, a tribe on the Central Asian frontier of China called Hsiung-nu defeated a neighboring one known as Yueh-chih. After more conflict, the survivors of the Yueh-chih were dislocated west, passing down the Ili river valley and along the southern shore of lake Issyk Kul. This … Read more
Satvahanas After the fall of the Mauryan Empire, the history of the Andhras, as a continuous account of political and cultural events, commences with the rise of the Satavahanas as a political power. According to Matsya Purana there were 29 rulers of this dynasty. They ruled over the Andhradesa including Deccan for about 400 years … Read more
Although the Rig Veda deals with devotional work of religious nature, yet it gives a vivid picture of the early Vedic civilization. The Vedic Civilization is best understood from the social life, political organisation, economic life and religious beliefs. The Kula or family was the basic unit of Rig-Vedic Society. The Kula was headed by … Read more
The Enduring Legacy of Pali and Prakrit Literature: A Journey Through Ancient Indian Thought and Culture The rich tapestry of Indian literature is woven with threads of diverse languages, each carrying its own unique stories and perspectives. Among these, Pali and Prakrit stand out as crucial vehicles for transmitting ancient Indian wisdom, religious teachings, and … Read more
The Complexities of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh: A Journey Through History, Politics, and Culture Jammu & Kashmir (J&K) and Ladakh, nestled in the majestic Himalayas, are regions steeped in history, culture, and political complexities. This article delves into the intricate tapestry of these regions, exploring their unique identities, historical significance, and the ongoing political … Read more
Unveiling the Legacy of the Ikshvaku Dynasty (225-340 AD) The Ikshvaku dynasty, also known as the Ikshvakus or Ikshwaku dynasty, was an ancient Indian dynasty that ruled parts of present-day Northern India from approximately 225 to 340 AD. Renowned for their contributions to art, culture, and governance, the Ikshvakus played a significant role in shaping … Read more
Bodh Gaya is a town and a notified area committee in Gaya district in the Indian state of Bihar. It is famous as the place where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree. The Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located in Bodh Gaya. The town is located on the banks of … Read more
The Sarnath School of Art: A Legacy of Buddhist Artistic Expression The Sarnath School of Art, a prominent artistic tradition that flourished in ancient India, stands as a testament to the enduring power of Buddhist art. Located in the holy city of Sarnath, near Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, this school played a pivotal role in … Read more
Shungas The Sunga Empire (or Shunga Empire) is a Magadha dynasty that controlled North-central and Eastern India as well as parts of the northwest (now Pakistan) from around 185 to 73 B.C.E. It was established after the fall of the Indian Mauryan empire. The capital of the Sungas was Pataliputra. Later kings such as Bhagabhadra … Read more
Dharma Pala: A Patron of Buddhist Teachings Dharma Pala, a name synonymous with patronage and preservation of Buddhist teachings, stands as a towering figure in the history of Buddhism in the 8th and 9th centuries. His reign, marked by a fervent dedication to the propagation of the Buddhist faith, left an indelible mark on the … Read more