Archaeology of Fatehpur Sikri : New Discoveries

Contents: Preface. 1. Introduction: Terrain and water-system of Fatehpur Sikri: pre-and proto-history of Sikri area. 2. Archaeological survey and surface exploration of the Sikri Area. 3. Excavation at Birchhabili-Tila at Sikri. 4. Jaina Tirthankara sculptures and inscriptions. 5. Jaina Srutidevi Saraswati (dated 1010 AD). 6. Medieval Sikri (circa 10 century AD). 7. Archaeological study of Akbar\'s Fatehpur Sikri. 8. Archaeology of the Anup-Talao (circa 1576 AD). 9. Archaeology of Akbar\'s Ibadat-Khanah (1576-82). 10. Akbar\'s Ganga-Sagar. 11. Retrospect and conclusions of the study. Annexure. Bibliography. Index.

"The Archaeology of Fatehpur Sikri -- New Discoveries is a fundamental research work on medieval archaeology. It contains results of excavations at Birchhbili-Tila and exploration of the region within a radius of 25 km. Besides this, chronological study of the monuments have been made phase-wise along with inscriptions and mason marks. The site of Ibadat-Khanah which Akbar founded for religious and philosophical discussions has been identified with fair amount of certainty. The Agni-Kunda of so-called Jodha Bai\'s Palace, Hiran-Minar, and other monuments have been discussed with new interpretations according to contemporary historical records.

This strikingly illustrated volume is the result of first hand research work and deals with many aspects afresh right from prehistory to the present time.

Illuminating, in places provocative, this book should instigate further discussion and debate about one of the most dynamic and exciting periods in medieval Indian history. Written lucidly and yet with strong supportive historical evidence, the book is valuable for a general interest reader as well as a historian/archaeologist." (jacket)