Art and Architecture of Dasarna (Malwa) Region

Contents: Foreword. Preface. 1. Introduction. 2. Geographical and historical background. 3. Socio-economic and religious condition. 4. Architectural remains. 5. Hindu temples and other remains. 6. Buddhist iconography. 7. Brahmanical iconography. 8. Images of Visnu. 9. Images of Brahma (Astadikpala and Navagrahas). 10. Sakta Images. Conclusion. Bibliography. Index.

"The latest trends of micro-study in all the branches of science and humanities have obviously, inspired the scholars for detailed regional study of cultural activities in India.

The present book is a result of the comprehensive and scientific study of the ancient monuments of Dasarna Region (East Malwa). The author has surveyed scientifically the monuments of the area ascribed to the period ranging from circa 600 B.C. -1300 A.D. Thus, the study is divided into ten chapters. After the introduction; the second chapter deals with the important geographical features and historical backdrops; while the third chapter is a glance of socio-economic and religious conditions, which inspired and patronized the cultural activities in the Dasarnadesa (East Malwa); fourth chapter is devoted on the study of ancient monuments related with the major sects like the Buddhist, Hindu and Jaina, noticed in-situ, at different places of Dasarnadesa. Likewise, fifth chapter is devoted on the study of Hindu temples built during two phases of activities, i.e. pre-Gupta, and later-Gupta, and the temples of early medieval period. Among these the most grand and classic example of Bhumija mode is the temple of Udayesvara (Dist. Vidisha) ever built by the Paramara rulers like Udayaditya (1050-1080 A.D.). This chapter has also been added with the study of defensive architecture and miscellaneous art of the raising monolithic pillars for religious purpose. Five chapters, i.e. sixth to tenth are absolutely devoted on the study of iconography of different divinities related with the Buddhist, Jaina and Brahmanical (Saiva, Vaisnava, Sakta, etc) religions and the sculptures of the Yaksa and Yaksinis. Some of the rare sculptures of Brahmanical deities and Yaksinis have been brought to notice which claim to be rare and hold the unique position in entire range of Indian art heritage. Further, several plates, photographs, maps and line drawings authenticate the text.

Thus, the book will be a welcome addition to our knowledge and would be more useful for research scholar, student and common men as well." (jacket)