Historical Archaeology In India: Issues And Changing Perspectives

Summary

This is an abstract from the session entitled "Historical Archaeology in South Asia" , at the 2021 annual meeting of the Society for Historical Archaeology.

Understanding India and its culture was a colonial enterprise that was initiated in 18th and 19th centuries. The notions concerning identities which were constructed during the colonial times have considerably influenced the interpretations of archaeological remains in several contexts, including the recently introduced DNA studies that seek to study the Indian population. The focus in the study of the past has been mainly on major dynasties, ‘civilizations,’ Aryan-Dravidian or major ‘cultures.’ A more nuanced understanding of Indian history necessitates the reconstruction of micro history and the developments in the margins. In this context, investigation of the history of the villages and their micro environmental contexts assumes importance. This paper emphasises the importance of archaeology of historical period, more particularly medieval and colonial period. It analyses the shifting focus on heritage, archaeology of the margins, pubic archaeology and the need for holistic approach to historical archaeology and academic programs.

This Resource is Part of the Following Collections

• Historical Archaeology in South Asia   •
• Society for Historical Archaeology 2021

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Contact(s): Society for Historical Archaeology