In standard textbooks on Indian history, I encountered the assertion that India possessed no geographical, cultural, social, or political unity prior to British rule. I also read that Hinduism was formulated in the Gupta period (4th century CE) and that temples only appeared around the 1st century CE. Seeking the reality behind these statements, I undertook detailed investigation.
Puranic literature is defined by five features: Sarga (Creation), Pratisarga (Dissolution), Vamsa (Dynastic Lineages), Vamsanucharitam (Historical Accounts of Great Personalities), and Manvantara (Cosmic Eras). Vamsa and Vamsanucharitam play a vital role in documenting history.
The term Itihasa literally means “This was how it happened”—confirming that it represents true history. Chanakya’s Arthashastra highlights the tradition of listening to Itihasas and Puranas in the evening, a practice long supported by community and royal donations to temples. Guided by the eternal maxim “Satyat nasti paro dharmah” (There is no Dharma higher than Truth), our ancestors recorded events authentically—a fact acknowledged even by ancient foreign chroniclers. Where allegorical or complex passages exist, we should interpret them reasonably based on consistent accounts.
The essays in this book were originally published in Bharata Rushipeetham, Andhra Prabha, Andhra Jyothi, and Jagruthi. I offer my folded-handed thanks to their editors. It is my sincere hope that these research essays find a place in ancient Indian history curricula.
Dr. Mudigonda Sivaprasad (“Emperor of Historical Novels”) for his invaluable opinion, which decorates this text like a crest jewel.
Sri Ravoori Mrutyunjayarao (Rtd. History Professor & Principal) for his thoughtful review.
Late Dr. E.K. for the inspiration and guidance behind fixing the timeline of Varahamihira.
Dr. V.A. Kumaraswami for his appreciation and English translation.
Ananth, Narayana, and Durga Kumar for their ongoing cooperation and support.
Mahati Print Creations for their excellent printing services.
— Ch. Sivarama Krishna Sarma
Bhagyanagar