Introduction The history of Indian art and sculpture is a profound reflection of the cultural, spiritual, and aesthetic ideals that have shaped the subcontinent for thousands of years. Among the great centers of ancient Indian art, Mathura—located in the modern state of Uttar Pradesh—occupies a distinctive place. Situated on the banks of the Yamuna River,…
Introduction Prayagraj, known in ancient times as Prayag and later as Allahabad, holds a place of unparalleled importance in the historical, religious, and cultural landscape of India. Situated at the confluence (Triveni Sangam) of three sacred rivers — Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati — Prayagraj has been revered as one of the most sacred…
Introduction The Belan Valley, located in the eastern part of Uttar Pradesh, along the Belan River, is one of the most important archaeological and prehistoric regions of India. Spanning parts of Mirzapur and Sonbhadra districts, the valley has yielded a wealth of evidence documenting human activity from the Paleolithic to the Chalcolithic period. The term…
Introduction Emperor Harsha (Harshavardhana, c. 606–647 CE), one of the most illustrious rulers of early medieval India, reigned over a large part of northern India, encompassing modern-day Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Rajasthan, Punjab, and parts of Madhya Pradesh. While Harsha is often remembered for his political achievements and military campaigns, historians have increasingly emphasized his cultural…