Archaeological geography of early historical Gujarat

Includes biography, index, and references
The Archaeological Geography of Early Historical Gujarat argues that the Gujarat region was the meeting point of cultures from mainland India as well as the gateway for goods from overseas and offers important information regarding Indian Ocean trade in ancient India taking place from the west coast of the peninsula. Gujarat was also the hub where the overland trade routes met, where goods from north India, the Deccan, and what is today Afghanistan, as well as areas surrounding the east of the river Indus landed. Besides providing an account of the hinterland of the north-western coast of India, which has a historical character of its own, this volume also provides information on the nature of the ancient settlements of the modern state of Gujarat, and their connections with each other. The book pieces together the history of the common man and the conditions he may have faced during those times. For instance, several minor inscriptions commemorating the death of people and the digging of wells throw light on the limitations in practising agriculture faced by people then. Finally, the book looks at Gujarat as an important Buddhist centre, much like Sind, as evidenced by the brick stupas found in the state.