The Making of Early Kashmir: Intercultural Networks and Identity Formation

This is the first full-length history of early Kashmir, covering pre-history to the thirteenth century, and challenging nationalist historiographies by situating it in the context of shared human histories. It will be of interest to scholars and researchers of history, archaeology, anthropology, and South Asian studies.

Format: Hardback
Length: 322 pages
Publication date: 22 February 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This is the first comprehensive history of early Kashmir, going beyond its regional setting and spanning from prehistory to the thirteenth century. By utilizing a diverse range of sources, including conventional archaeological and literary materials, as well as non-conventional sources such as philology, toponym, and surnames, the book presents a connected narrative of early Kashmir across a lengthy period. It challenges the tendencies towards nationalist historiographies of the region by placing it within the broader context of humanity's shared histories. The volume will be of immense interest to scholars and researchers in history, archaeology, anthropology, and South Asian studies.

Introduction:
Early Kashmir, a region rich in history and cultural diversity, has long been a subject of fascination for scholars and researchers. However, until now, there has been a lack of comprehensive accounts that place the region in its broader historical context. This book aims to fill that gap by presenting a comprehensive history of early Kashmir, from its pre-history to the thirteenth century.

Methodology:
To achieve this, the author has drawn on a wide range of sources, including conventional archaeological and literary materials, as well as non-conventional sources such as philology, toponym, and surnames. The goal is to present a connected narrative of early Kashmir that encompasses various aspects of society, culture, and politics.

Pre-history:
The book begins with an examination of the pre-history of Kashmir, including the emergence of human settlements, the development of agriculture, and the rise of early civilizations. The author explores the various archaeological sites and artifacts that provide evidence of the early inhabitants of the region, including the Indus Valley Civilization, the Bronze Age civilization of the Indus Valley, and the early Hindu and Buddhist kingdoms.

Early Dynasties:
The book then moves on to explore the early dynasties that ruled Kashmir, including the Guptan, Vedic, and Buddhist dynasties. The author provides a detailed account of these dynasties, their rulers, and their contributions to the development of Kashmir's culture, literature, and religion. The book also discusses the influence of these dynasties on the neighboring regions, such as Punjab and Afghanistan.

Middle Ages:
The middle ages in Kashmir saw the rise of several powerful kingdoms, such as the Sultanate, the Mughal Empire, and the Rajput dynasties. The author discusses the political, social, and cultural developments that took place during this period, including the spread of Islam, the construction of grand mosques and palaces, and the development of literature and art.

Modern Era:
The modern era in Kashmir began with the arrival of the British in the late eighteenth century. The author discusses the British colonial rule, its impact on Kashmir's culture and society, and the resistance movements that emerged against it. The book also explores the post-independence era, including the emergence of the state of Jammu and Kashmir and the ongoing conflict between India and Pakistan.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, this book provides a comprehensive and nuanced history of early Kashmir, going beyond its regional context and placing it within the broader context of humanity's shared histories. It challenges the tendencies towards nationalist historiographies of the region and presents a more inclusive and nuanced understanding of the region's past. The volume will be of great interest to scholars and researchers in history, archaeology, anthropology, and South Asian studies.

Weight: 780g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032158303