Wednesday 8 May 2019

214. Daily Life in Ancient India by Jeannine Auboyer

BOOK REVIEW: Daily Life in Ancient India by Jeannine Auboyer

As a fellow Indian, I have always wanted to explore my roots, far as they may seem. The Indians are rich in culture and heritage with more to be unearthed by fellow archaeologists and historians alike. One such book that has left me in awe is this historical account of ancient India.

Unlike many Western countries, life in vast areas of India is still conducted according to patterns and traditions that have remained unchanged for thousands of years. The author therefore chose a period covering nearly a thousand years in this tome.

The nine centuries described in this book, ending with the political upheavals of the 7th century AD, coincide with a golden age of Indian civilization. The Brahmanic and Buddhist religions flourished side by side; artistic creation was at its height and India's most beautiful monasteries and shrines were founded.

Throughout this book, Auboyer evokes the fascinating complexities of India's ancient epoch, with its caste system, its endless rituals and the ceremonial nature of human relations even in matters of love.

Personally, this was a perfect introduction to one of the world's most noble and refined civilizations. If you are a history buff and keen on raving through a book on ancient history, I thoroughly recommend this book.

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