Handbook of Indian History

This book comprehensively examines the extensive history of India by focusing on the unifying themes of history. The profound analysis of special events and impactful personalities of Indian history form the core of the book. Handbook of Indian History includes articles on cultural, social, and political history of India, topics of religion, philosophy, gender, language and literature, providing a vast array of knowledge on India. The book is divided into three parts. Part one examines the historical developments beginning with the first human settlements to the civilizational foundations of early India until the second century B.C.E. Part two discusses India's political, economic, social, and cultural developments during the First Millennium C.E. expanding beyond India's borders. Chapters in this section address diverse subjects concerning Indian history, including but not limited to communications and networks along with maritime contacts with other parts of Asia, shipping, and international trade. This section also focuses on developments concerning religions such as Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism, examining devotional practice, monasticism, educational, and social developments. Part three explores the themes of colonialism and the progressive colonization of India between the twelfth century and the eighteenth century, followed by its struggles and emergence as an independent nation in the twentieth century. Chapters in this section explore India's independence struggles, colonial legacy, post-independence revivals and revivals drawing upon ancient wisdom of India. The book introduces India from the beginning to the current day, providing depth and breadth of subjects to understand the history of India. The book is beneficial to anyone interested in learning about India, including students, researchers, and general readers.