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June 25, 2025
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Penned by
Dr. P. Jinimon
Assistant Professor, Department of History, University of Kerala
&
Co-ordinator, JIH Specific Project
The Journal of Indian History, originating at Allahabad University and later integrating into the University of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram, after transitioning through Madras University and the University of Travancore, has reached a centennial milestone, showcasing resilience through turbulent phases and leaving a lasting legacy with substantial contributions to India’s scholarly realms of history and historiography. Since this institutional transition, the Department of History has been diligently publishing the journal to make substantive contributions to Indian history, unwavering in its dedication to academic excellence. In the post-independence era, the editorial leadership of the journal was entrusted to distinguished history Professors from the University of Kerala, and the newly constituted Department of History of the University of Kerala marked a pivotal era for the Journal of Indian History, during which it achieved new heights in academic distinction. The publication commemorated key milestones in Indian history with the release of the Indian Independence SilverJubilee Volume, The Golden Jubilee Volume in 1973, a Special Issue in Honour of the World Conference on Malayalam in 1977, the Diamond Jubilee Volume in 1982, the Platinum Jubilee Volume in 2001 and Centenary Volume in 2023. These special issues added depth to the historical narrative and demonstrated the journal’s acute awareness of the pivotal moments in its history. Across its century, the Journal of Indian History has been an observant sentinel, shrewdly observing and contributing to the maturation and refinement of Indian historiography. The editors, comprising eminent historians, have consistently upheld rigorous scholarly standards, ensuring that the journal remains a crucible of intellectual exploration. Innumerable scholars have graced its pages with insightful contributions, solidifying its position as a quintessence of historical inquiry. Reflecting on this illustrious journey, the Journal of Indian History is an enduring testament to an unwavering commitment to scholarly excellence and the nuanced exploration of India’s rich and multifaceted past. Its extensive collections, now accessible in major libraries worldwide, continue to serve as an invaluable resource for those navigating the complex terrain of Indian historical scholarship.
Leopold von Ranke, the distinguished German historian, is widely recognised as the pioneer of modern historical scholarship, having popularised an innovative approach that prioritises original archival research over the dependence on pre-existing narratives crafted by fellow historians. His methodology, characterised by meticulous document analysis, contextual interpretation of texts within their historical milieu, and narrative presentations of significant historical processes, marked a departure from conventional practices. Ranke’s refusal to pass moral judgments on historical figures, rejection of divine providence as a historical explanation, and scepticism toward ready-made philosophies of history exemplified his commitment to an objective portrayal of historical events, encapsulated by the maxim wieeseigentlichgewesen (as it was). Ranke’s enduring influence extended well into the mid-twentieth century, finding support in figures such as Lord Acton, the Regius Professor of Modern History at Cambridge University in 1895, who expressed optimism that a proper reading of primary sources could establish objective historical facts. However, this perspective faced criticism from modern historians like E.H. Carr, who labelled it a “fetishism of facts.” Even as late as 1967, Geoffrey Elton adhered to a substantially Rankean approach in his work The Practice of History. Despite Ranke’s impact, not all modern historians subscribed to complete objectivity. Scholars such as Charles Beard, Carl Becker, and R.G. Collingwood challenged this aspect of Ranke’s approach, reflecting a growing acknowledgement of the complexities and challenges inherent in achieving impartiality in historical analysis.
In the late 19th century, most professional historians considered history a form of knowledge governed by a method different from natural sciences, which led to the development of the ‘historical method’, which was influenced by three textbooks: Johann Gustav Droysen’s Outline of the Theory of History, Ernst Bernheim’s Handbook of Historical Method, and Charles Langlois and Charles Seignobos’s Introduction to the Study of History. These books promoted a consensus on historical methods among historians of various nationalities by the early 20th century. This agreement supported communication and the development of disciplinary identity among historians trained within different and sometimes conflicting national traditions. In the discussion regarding the nature of history and pioneering work of research methodology, the authors Charles Victor Langlois and C. Seignobos stated, “History, to constitute itself a science, must elaborate the raw material of facts. It must condense them into manageable forms using descriptive formulas, qualitative and quantitative. It must search for those connections between facts which form the ultimate conclusions of every science.” From his inaugural lecture as Regius Professor of Modern History at Cambridge delivered on 26 January 1903 comes J.B. Bury’s public proclamation ‘History is a science, no more, no less.’ Marc Bloch reasoned that each science has its appropriate aesthetic of language, and the art of history helps convey the complexity and nuance of historical events without reducing them to simplistic formulas or equations. By using language rich in metaphor and imagery, historians can capture the essence of these phenomena in a way that statistics and data cannot.
By embracing this approach, historians can contribute to a deeper understanding of the world and its role in shaping our understanding of the past. R.G. Collingwood believed that studying history is a fundamental duty of humanity, providing insight into our identity and the world around us. He believed that studying history helps us understand the complexities of modern society better and contextualise current events. This belief is still relevant today, as it offers a vital anchor point for navigating through rapid change and uncertainty. Fernand Braudel, on the other hand, saw history as a web of relationships between objects and people, viewing the world as a continuous process rather than a series of isolated events. His holistic approach has profoundly influenced history, persuaded scholars to adopt a more interdisciplinary approach and consider the interconnectedness of different aspects of human society. Historical analysis is crucial in understanding the changes over time and the factors that have influenced these changes. Historians seek to understand the strengths and weaknesses of different forms of government, economic trends, and social and cultural differences, which can provide valuable lessons for the present and future. Pursuing knowledge for itself is acceptable, but examining its application in society and its results is even more necessary. The role of individuals in shaping the course of events is another important aspect of history.
One fundamental way perspectival differences can influence historical writing is by selecting and interpreting sources. Historians must choose which sources to use in their research and how to solve them. This diversity of perspectives makes historical research fascinating and complex, but it also means that historians must be careful not to impose their biases onto their analysis. Historians can build a more nuanced understanding of the past by triangulating different types of evidence. The past is always revealed as a new history, with historians creating various forms of assignations based on chosen sources. This results in a constantly changing “what the past meant” and meaning, as history is established through the historian’s form, making it irrelevant until turned into account.
Another essential aspect of historical research is the interpretation of evidence. Historians must evaluate the evidence they have gathered and draw conclusions about what it tells us about the past. They must consider the context in which the evidence was produced and how societal norms and biases may have influenced it. Historians often use interdisciplinary approaches to gain a more comprehensive understanding of historical events and trends. The conception of sources in history has evolved significantly over time, with historians increasingly incorporating the perspectives of marginalised groups and individuals into their analyses. E.P. Thompson has stressed the importance of focusing on the “lived experience” and agency of those at the bottom of society. And David Cannadine recently remarked that A. J. P. Taylor’s inability “to get beneath the skins of other people, to project himself imaginatively and empathically into their hearts or minds” was “a great limitation” in his work as a historian.
The prevailing confidence among Anglophone historians, particularly in the English-speaking world, held that objectivity could be attained solely through meticulous study of evidence, discouraging philosophical reflections on history. This resistance to philosophical considerations endured until the 1970s, when post-modernism posed a significant challenge to the established historiographical tradition, ushering in a more nuanced and problematised approach to the act of interpretation in historical analysis.
The course of historiography and historical methodologies has undergone profound shifts, symbolic of the evolving perspectives and methodologies germane to studying the past. The erstwhile dominance of Eurocentric and linear narratives has yielded ground for more inclusive and diversified paradigms. Academic journals are central to reflecting and disseminating these transformative shifts, serving as dynamic conduits wherein scholars engage in rigorous discourse, expounding novel theoretical frameworks, methodological approaches, and nuanced interpretations of historical events. These scholarly platforms are pivotal in capturing and illuminating these paradigmatic transformations, providing an intellectual container for critically examining established narratives and introducing innovative perspectives. Their role extends beyond mere archival functions to encompass the cultivation of an intellectual milieu that fosters continuous scrutiny and evolution of historical methodologies. As discerning custodians of historical scholarship, these journals wield considerable influence in shaping the path of historiography, thereby moulding societal understandings and interpretations of their collective past.
An academic journal is a periodical publication that contains scholarly articles, research studies, and other contributions within a specific academic discipline or field of study. These journals serve as a platform for researchers, academics, and experts to share their original research, analyses, reviews, and theoretical discussions with the academic community. The academic journals aim to provide researchers with a platform to share knowledge and contribute to improving specific research areas. In the modern sense, however, the scholarly journal is distinctive from other forms of publishing in specific vital ways. It is likely to be university-based; it involves academics, editors, and consultants; it uses standard formats and styles of binding, typesetting, and publishing; and is published regularly. The Academic journals usually employ referees. Experts in specific fields are asked to comment and recommend whether submitted manuscripts merit publication. The first academic journal was Journal des Sçavans in 1665, followed by Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society. The history of academic journals dates back several centuries, and the evolution of these publications reflects the changing landscape of scholarly communication and the dissemination of knowledge. The ongoing development of academic publishing reflects technological changes, communication practices, and how researchers share their work with the global academic community.
The line of the humanities towards scholarly articles followed a distinct path. Present-day academic journals draw inspiration from the models established for nineteenth-century Germany’s emerging “professional history” field. Among the earliest historical periodicals, the Historische Zeitschrift, introduced in 1859, remains in existence, emerging a couple of centuries after the inception of the first scientific journals. These scholarly journals in the humanities, rooted in university settings seen as pivotal and unifying hubs of academic professionalism, fostered coherence within a discipline and facilitated knowledge exchange among scholars with shared interests. They successfully combined ideological commitment with scholarly pursuits in Germany, incorporating political discussions alongside more conventional academic contributions. The conviction that politics is incompatible with scholarship became widespread only after the Nazis took control of German universities in the 1930s: hence the post-war emphasis in Historische Zeitschrift on “the maintenance of rigorous scholarly striving towards true unbiased knowledge.”
The French Revue Historique, founded in 1876 by Gabriel Monod, is a prominent and influential historical journal that significantly contributes to historical studies. With a dedication to publishing high-quality research articles, essays, and reviews across various historical periods and themes, the journal has played a vital role in shaping historical scholarship and fostering intellectual discourse. Its interdisciplinary approach has made it a valuable resource for scholars, facilitating the exploration of diverse historical methodologies and perspectives. Chronicling significant historical events and societal changes, the journal provides a nuanced view of the unfolding tapestry of human history. Over the years, The French Revue Historique has adapted to the evolving landscape of historical studies, incorporating new methodologies and embracing a global perspective. Upholding rigorous academic standards, the journal has been instrumental in promoting international collaboration and dialogue among historians, maintaining its prestige and enduring significance in shaping historical scholarship.
The Journal of Hellenic Studies, established in 1880, holds a distinguished place in classical scholarship, particularly in studying Greek history, language, and culture. Published by the Society for the Promotion of Hellenic Studies, the journal has been a vital conduit for rigorous and innovative research on the Hellenic world. Its inception marked a significant commitment to advancing knowledge about ancient Greece and its impact on the broader classical tradition. The Journal of Hellenic Studies has consistently showcased scholarly excellence by publishing articles, reviews, and essays exploring diverse aspects of Greek history, archaeology, literature, philosophy, and art. Its enduring legacy and ongoing contributions make it an indispensable resource for scholars, historians, and classicists dedicated to unravelling the complexities of ancient Greek civilisation.
In 1886, The English Historical Review emerged as a scholarly beacon in historical studies, establishing itself as a preeminent platform for rigorous academic discourse. Founded by Mandell Creighton, a distinguished historian and later the Bishop of London, the journal embodied the intellectual fervour and methodological rigour of the late 19th-century historical scholarship. The inaugural year of The English Historical Review marked the beginning of a publication that would play a crucial role in shaping historical narratives and methodologies. As the discipline of history was undergoing transformations and professionalisation during this period, the journal provided a vital space for historians to present original research, engage in debates, and contribute to the evolving landscape of historical inquiry.
The American Historical Review (AHR), established in 1895 and published by the American Historical Association (AHA), is a preeminent journal in historical scholarship. Throughout its long and distinguished history, the AHR has been a central forum for disseminating rigorous and innovative research across various historical periods, regions, and methodologies. As the official publication of the AHA, the journal plays a pivotal role in shaping the discourse within American history. Recognised for its commitment to academic excellence, the AHR undergoes a meticulous peer-review process, ensuring its published scholarship’s high quality and credibility. Its pages feature articles, reviews, and essays that contribute to a comprehensive understanding of historical events, trends, and interpretations. The AHR’s longevity and continued influence attest to its enduring significance as a crucial resource for historians, researchers, and scholars, fostering intellectual engagement and advancement within American historical studies.
The Scottish Historical Review, established in 1903, is a venerable publication dedicated to exploring and disseminating historical scholarship with a specific focus on Scottish history. Published by The Scottish Historical Review Trust, the journal has played a seminal role in shaping the understanding of Scotland’s past. From its inception, the Scottish Historical Review has provided a platform for scholars to contribute to the rich array of Scottish history through articles, reviews, and essays. Its commitment to rigorous academic standards and the dissemination high-quality research have solidified its reputation as a leading journal. Over the decades, the journal has covered various topics, from political and social history to cultural and economic developments in Scotland. As a cornerstone of Scottish historical studies, The Scottish Historical Review is an invaluable resource for historians, researchers, and enthusiasts seeking a deeper understanding of Scotland’s historical journey. Historical Review (formerly Historische Zeitschrift) was founded in 1895. This German journal was later renamed Historische Zeitschrift in 1909. It has been a prominent outlet for historical research, covering various topics and methodologies. The journal’s early years witnessed significant contributions to German historical scholarship during intellectual and political transformations.
Established in 1916, The Journal of African-American History is the oldest and most prominent scholarly publication dedicated to exploring and disseminating research on African-American history. Published by the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH), the journal has been instrumental in advancing the understanding of the African-American experience. From its inception, it has served as a vital platform for scholars, historians, and researchers to contribute to the academic discourse on African Americans’ history, culture, and achievements. The Journal of African American History covers a wide range of topics, including but not limited to slavery, the Civil Rights Movement, cultural contributions, and contemporary issues facing the African-American community. Its commitment to academic rigour and the promotion of diverse perspectives has solidified its role as a preeminent resource. As part of the ASALH’s mission to promote the study and appreciation of African-American history, the journal plays a crucial role in shaping scholarship and fostering a deeper understanding of African-American heritage.
The global context highlights the diverse range of journals that have contributed to the development of historical scholarship. These journals have facilitated communication among historians from different regions, fostering a rich exchange of ideas and perspectives. The reviewed journals in this context have demonstrated a commitment to academic rigour, peer review, and the dissemination of high-quality historical research. Overall, the evolution of periodicals and scholarly communication in history reflects the dynamic nature of the discipline and its continuous efforts to advance our understanding of the past.
The history of academic journals in India within the discipline of history reflects a fascinating journey of scholarly exploration and intellectual evolution. The inception of these journals can be traced back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, coinciding with the burgeoning interest in historical research and the establishment of educational institutions. Pioneering endeavours laid the foundation for historical scholarship, fostering an environment where researchers could disseminate their findings and engage in critical discourse. These journals chronicle India’s past and mirror the evolution of historical methodologies, the diversity of research interests, and the country’s dynamic landscape of historical studies. Today, they are invaluable repositories of academic explorations in India, providing a platform for rigorous intellectual dialogue and exchanging ideas.
A venerable publication with a scholarly lineage, The Journal of the Royal Asiatic Society, dating back to 1827, has undergone several title changes reflective of its historical development. Originating as the Transactions of the Royal Asiatic Society in 1827, it transformed into the Journal of the Royal Asiatic Society of Great Britain and Ireland from 1834 to 1863. Subsequently, a “New Series” of this journal emerged from 1864 to 1990 before assuming its current title, Journal of the Royal Asiatic Society, from 1991 onwards. These nomenclature changes mark the publication’s evolution and underscore its enduring commitment to fostering scholarly exploration and understanding of Asia’s rich cultural, historical, and linguistic diversity. With a comprehensive archive spanning centuries, the journal remains an invaluable resource for researchers and enthusiasts alike, offering a window into the evolution of Asian studies over the years.
The establishment of the Asiatic Society of Bengal, dating back to 1784, is one of Asia’s oldest learned societies. This esteemed institution has played a vital role in shaping scholarly inquiry, establishing itself as a cornerstone for exploring many subjects. The Journal of the Asiatic Society of Bengal, which was launched in 1832, has been instrumental in delving into the rich tapestry of Indian history and culture. The Asiatic Society of Bengal stands as a beacon of intellectual achievement, fostering an enduring legacy of knowledge dissemination. Noteworthy contributions by scholars such as H.H. Wilson and James Prinsep enriched the understanding of India’s historical and cultural heritage through this journal. These early academic publications provided a vital forum for scholars to exchange ideas, publish their research findings, and contribute to India’s developing field of historical research. The enduring impact of these foundational journals set the stage for subsequent scholarly endeavours and institutions, shaping the trajectory of historical studies in the country.
The Indian Antiquary was a monthly journal founded by Dr. James Burgess in 1872 to communicate between the East and West on subjects related to Indian Research. It aimed to promote and encourage research, with many annual volumes containing over twelve numbers. But, as Dr. Burgess’s vision became troublesome, the journal was taken over by Dr. J. F. Fleet and Captain R. C Temple in 1885. Dr. Fleet retired in 1917, and Captain Temple continued as sole editor-proprietor until December 1921. The journal’s main feature was the reproduction and publication of Inscriptions, primarily sought out or collected by the proprietors and trained by them. The late 19th century witnessed a surge in local historical societies in India and an increasing number of English-speaking Indian scholars. By the 1920s, the journal featured substantial contributions from Indian authors. The first iteration concluded in 1933. But later, it was revived as The New Indian Antiquary (1938-1947) and the “Third Series” Indian Antiquary (1964-1971), showcasing the enduring legacy and adaptability of this scholarly enterprise. Reprints by Swati Publications 1984 preserved the early volumes, solidifying the journal’s historical significance.
Founded in 1885 by Sir Lepel Griffin, The Asiatic Quarterly Review initially served as the East India Association’s organ under the editorship of Demetrius Boulger. Expanding its scope in 1891 to encompass South East Asia and the Middle East, the journal transformed into the Imperial and Asiatic Quarterly Review and Oriental and Colonial Record. The third series, initiated in 1896 under G. W. Leitner at the Oriental Institute, later reverted to Asiatic Quarterly Review in 1913 under the editorship of W. MacCarthy Mann and Gilbert Lyne. By 1914, now published more frequently as the Asiatic Review, it continued to amalgamate East India Association proceedings with articles on Asian matters, book reviews, and global affairs commentary. Unafraid of delving into political discourse, the journal actively fostered diverse debates. A vital repository of information on South Asians in Britain, it featured ‘Where East and West Meet’ from 1915, chronicling British events related to ‘Asiatic questions’. Despite its significant contributions, the journal concluded its publication in 1952.
The Indian Appeal, edited by Hiralal Kumar, is a noteworthy historical journal with a significant publication history. The journal, known for its diverse contributions, was published by various agencies in prominent locations such as Calcutta, Oxford, and London. The initial series of The Indian Appeal spanned from September 1889 to April 1892, covering Volume 1 to Volume 4. During this period, the journal likely served as a platform for discussions, scholarly articles, and perspectives on various topics relevant to the socio-political and cultural landscape of that time in India. Unfortunately, it’s challenging to delve into the exact themes covered without specific information about the content. After an apparent hiatus, a second series of The Indian Appeal commenced in 1907. The decision to resume publication after a gap could indicate the journal’s continued relevance and importance in addressing contemporary issues. The second series might have provided a renewed platform for scholars, writers, and thinkers to contribute to ongoing discussions and debates. The distribution of the journal across Calcutta, Oxford, and London suggests a broad readership and international engagement, indicating its potential impact on a wider audience. The choice of these locations for publication hubs also highlights the global reach and influence of The Indian Appeal.
A significant bilingual (English-Urdu) journal emerged as a publication of the Muhammadan Anglo-Oriental College in Aligarh, named Aligarh Monthly, in 1903. Printed at Cawnpore, it succeeded the Muhammadan Anglo-Oriental College Magazine (1891-1902) and was issued monthly starting from January 1903, with its publication extending until 1915. As an intellectual platform, it contributed to its time’s academic and cultural discourse. The Aligarh Monthly laid the foundation for the subsequent Aligarh Magazine, indicating a continuity of the institution’s commitment to scholarly engagement. The journal reflected the multicultural ethos of the college, fostering dialogue in both English and Urdu and served as evidence of Aligarh’s educational and intellectual vibrancy during its publication period.
The Quarterly Journal of the Mythic Society, established in 1909 and published in Bangalore, India, is a respected institution with a century-long history. Founded under the editorship of Alexander Rannie, the journal has been a scholarly cornerstone for exploring Indian mythology, history, archaeology, and culture. Committing to a quarterly release schedule provides a regular platform for researchers, academics, and enthusiasts to contribute to and engage in discussions surrounding the diverse facets of India’s rich cultural heritage. The journal’s subjects cover a broad spectrum, including studies on myths, legends, historical research, archaeological findings, and cultural practices. Its articles contribute to a deeper understanding of India’s multifaceted heritage, making it a valuable resource for those delving into Indian mythology and history.
The Bhandarkar Oriental Research Institute, inaugurated in 1919, stands as a venerable scholarly journal, Annals of the Bhandarkar Oriental Research Institute, with a continuous publication history to the present day. Over the years, esteemed editors have guided its intellectual course, including D.R. Bhandarkar, C.R. Devadhar, A.B. Gajendragadkar, V.G. Paranjpe, A.D. Gajendragadkar, R.N. Dandekar, K.V. Abhyankar, K.N. Dikshit, and R.D. Karmarkar. The editorial transitions underscore a commitment to diverse expertise and evolving perspectives. With a variable publication frequency, the journal has issued up to four parts annually, showcasing a dynamic engagement with Oriental research. Situated in Pune, the Bhandarkar Oriental Research Institute’s Annals persist as an invaluable repository of scholarly contributions, reflecting the rich tapestry of Oriental studies and serving as a testament to the enduring commitment to academic exploration.
Man in India is an anthropology journal focusing on South Asia. Its scope includes biological and sociocultural anthropology, archaeology, linguistics and folk culture. Published by Kamla-Raj Enterprises, it has been a significant platform for scholarly exploration of Indian society, encompassing history and culture. It is the first anthropological journal started in India by Sarat Chandra Roy in 1921. This journal has been a catalyst for interdisciplinary research, providing insights into the evolution of India’s societal fabric. With a focus on the multifaceted aspects of Indian life, Man in India contributes to a nuanced understanding of the country’s heritage. Over the years, it has evolved to reflect the dynamic nature of Indian scholarship, making it a valuable resource for those seeking a comprehensive view of the nation’s cultural tapestry.
A monthly journal inaugurated in July 1923 and printed at The Statesman Press in Calcutta, The Indian Athenaeum played a notable role in the literary and intellectual landscape of its time. Its origins trace back to the merger in 1921 of the Athenaeum, a longstanding literary magazine published in London since 1828, and the newer Nation, edited by Henry William Massingham. This fusion marked the formation of The Indian Athenaeum. This enterprise garnered attention and changed ownership in 1923 when a consortium led by the renowned economist John Maynard Keynes acquired it. The journal thrived under its new leadership, contributing to intellectual discussions in India. The Statesman Press in Calcutta, a significant printing hub, increased the publication’s prominence. This convergence of literary traditions and editorial talent underscored the journal’s unique position as a bridge between Western and Indian intellectual spheres during a pivotal period.
The Journal of Indian History, credited as one of the world’s most reputed and oldest journals, has garnered international accolades for its tour de force in disseminating knowledge associated with the discipline of history. It was founded by Sir Shafaat Ahmad Khan, Professor of Modern History at the University of Allahabad, after realising that no standard international journal of repute was in print in the domain of Indian history. Humphrey Milford Oxford University Press in London initially published the Journal.
The Department of Modern Indian History was established in 1912 as the historical research Department of the University of Allahabad. The Department’s faculty members were engaged in original investigations into different periods of Indian History. Prof. Shafaat Ahmad Khan was the School’s Director during the establishment of the Journal of Indian History. Pundit Ramaprasad Tripathi (Reader), Beni Prasad, and Iswari Prasad were Assistant Professors, and the research scholars included Visweswar Daya Dantayagi and Syed Maqsood Hussain Naqvi. The department fostered scientific methods to resolve many of the complex problems of modern Indian history and produced several monographs embodying the result of research processed there. “Suppose one begins with strict academic historiography in the sense of production research that uncovers the original data and marshals them critically and inductively. In that case, the one historian writing on the modern period seems to be Shafaat Ahmad Khan. One of his areas of interest was the British penetration of the country.”
The Journal of Indian History, which later established itself as a leading publication in Indian historiography, became an indispensable platform for advancing knowledge and fostering critical dialogue in Indian history. The first two volumes of the journal were published in non-calendar years, i.e. 1921/22 and 1922/23, respectively, and Dr.Khan published the journal thrice a year and continued to be its editor until 1923. When he became a member of the U.P. Legislative Council in 1924 and continued on it for two terms, Dr. S. Krishnaswami Aiyangar, Professor of Indian History at the University of Madras, took over the editorship of the journal.
As the journal editor and a trained historian who has contributed much to the development of Indian history, Dr.Khan nurtured and enhanced the Journal of Indian History with his extensive academic research and writing of history. Under him, the journal began its tryst with history, committed to inclusivity and diversity and enriching the understanding of Indian history by highlighting all the various perspectives and approaches, inevitably transforming the journal into an indispensable platform for advancing knowledge and fostering critical dialogue in Indian history.
Dr.Khan, one of the forerunners in the study about the beginning of colonial rule in India, contributed six articles related to the trade relations with East India and other parts of the world, such as ‘The East India Trade in the xvii Century’, ‘Sources for xvii Century British India in the Archives’, ‘Documents on the East Indian Trade’, ‘The East India Company’s War with Aurangazeb’, ‘Sources for the History of xvii Century British India in the India Office and Public Record Office’, and ‘The Anglo-Portuguese Negotiations relating to Bombay, 1660-1667’. His descriptions regarding the sources for constructing the history of British India in the seventeenth century found in the British Museum and Bodleian libraries shed a flood of light on the variety of sources available. While the British Museum contains a rich collection of pamphlets, broadsides, and manuscripts, the documents in the Bodleian Library are of primary importance for the history of the New East India Company. The Public Record Office contains a complete collection of the company’s negotiations with the Dutch, along with the Minutes of the Committee and Councils for trade and plantations and the dispatches of the English administrators and petitions of the English East India Company. “This, by no means, is an exhaustive account of the wealth of materials that can be gathered there,” Dr. Khan remarked. He continued, “All these documents are useful to the historians because it is mainly through the study of the concrete details that he can grasp the principles upon which they were founded”. Dr. Khan later became the first president of the esteemed Indian History Congress in 1935.
Dr. Sakkottai Krishnaswami Aiyangar, Professor of History at the University of Madras and the doyen of historical studies in South India, edited the journal from 1924 to 1945. In his introduction to Volume IV, he states the raison d’être of the journal as follows: “The journal is intended primarily for work on the historical aspect of oriental research, and its distinctive feature from other oriental journals will be this historical bias”. For years, the journal has sought to maintain the highest standards of research and specialised study, rendered valuable service in every branch of Indian history, and has been of high cultural and popular value. As has been pointed out, one of the essential features of the journal is the periodical resume of the contents of important books and journals dealing with topics connected with the journal’s objectives. It has given a generous space to varying views and secured the ventilation of opinions on matters where differences of outlook and perspective were inevitable and essential in actual research.
Dr. Aiyangar enlisted the help of eminent historians throughout India. Thus, he secured valuable contributions from all parts of the country for the journal on various topics dealing with Indian history and culture. It was to be expected that a learned journal of this kind would not attract large numbers of subscribers but would have to rely on the support of scholars and students of historical research. The total circulation, including exchanges, is approximately two hundred. The cost of publication, however, has been considerably assisted by generous donations from the University of Madras and Osmania University. In addition to a long series of learned contributions on various historical subjects, two other journal features deserve special mention, viz., the publication of reviews of important books and the summaries of the contents of Oriental Journals. Special treatises like the History of the Gupta Period were occasionally published as special issues of the journal. Dr. Aiyangar did not have the habit of interfering with the contributions submitted to him, nor did he take the task of editing his contributors’ views or their style. Though stern in his pursuit to ensure high academic quality, he gratefully appreciated the assistance of his contributors and gave them the fullest freedom to express their views. If he differed from the opinions of other historians and felt the necessity to criticise them, he did it properly through his contributions without compromising the ethos of the journal. This rightful policy has always been greatly appreciated by many learned scholars who contributed articles to the journal and ensured its success through their willing collaboration. From 1944 to 1945, the journal passed through a critical period because of the Second World War. At times, the enormous increase in the cost of paper and printing threatened the journal’s existence. Still, Dr. Aiyangar kept it alive, though it had to assume a much-attenuated form. Since the journal’s purchase by the University of Travancore in 1946, other difficulties have arisen, which delayed the appearance of the first volume under the university’s auspices. Severe illness prevented Dr. Aiyangar from the quick handling of the essential materials, and these difficulties were exacerbated by his death later in the year.
The University of Travancore appointed Professor V. Rangacharya as the Editor of the journal, and Professor C. S. Srinivasachari of Annamalai University and V.R. Ramachandra Dikshitar of Madras University consented to continue as Associate Editors. Prof. Rangacharya, a distinguished historian and writer affiliated with H. H. Maharaja’s University College (now University College), maintained a longstanding and illustrious association with the journal. His scholarly eminence extended across diverse South Indian history, solidifying his reputation as a preeminent authority. C. S. Srinivasachari is known for his extensive work on Madras in 1939. He contributed to the history of Maratha invasions and rule in south India before British power. Before its publication in book format in 1940, his work on the private diary of Ananda Ranga Pillai was initially serialised in consecutive volumes of the Journal of Indian History titled “Historical Materials in the Private Diary of Ananda Ranga Pillai” Vishnampet R. Ramachandra Dikshitar, a distinguished historian, Indologist, and Dravidologist, served as a professor of history and archaeology at the University of Madras and authored several widely acclaimed books on Indian history. All the editorial board members agreed to continue to serve in this capacity. Soon after assuming the editor post, Prof. Rangacharya was struck by illness, which incapacitated him for several months, further delaying the publication of the twenty-fifth volume of the journal. Prof. V. Narayana Pillai was suddenly called to act for Prof. Rangacharya.
Dr. Aiyangar brought within the ambit of the journal the entire field of Indian history, transcending the divisions of time and geography. Despite the journal attaining high academic merit and quality, Dr. Aiyangar faced a severe financial crisis. The valuable support provided by C.S. Srinivasaachariar and V.V.R. Dikshitar (VRR) at the time has been fondly recalled. At long last, he persuaded the University of Kerala (Travancore University) to take it over and relieve him of a great responsibility. As a matter of prestige, the Dewan of Travancore, Sir C.P. Ramaswami Aiyar, also the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Travancore, purchased the journal with absolute power from the University of Madras in 1946. In his preface to Vol. XXIV, published in 1947, Sir Ramaswami Aiyar heralded the journal for maintaining the highest research and specialised study standards. He particularly mentioned the hospitality the journal accorded to varying views and opinions essential to authentic research.
From 1946 to 1972, the prestigious Journal of Indian History underwent a period of editorial transition under the guidance of distinguished Professors of History at the University College, Thiruvananthapuram. This illustrious succession included the erudite leadership of Prof. V. Narayana Pillai, Prof. K.P. Pillai, Prof. P.S. Raghavan, Prof. P. K. Karunakara Menon (P.K.K. Menon), and Dr. Sooranad Kunjan Pillai. The enduring legacy of the journal persisted beyond this period, coinciding with the establishment of the History Department at Calicut University. In 1972, Dr. T.K. Ravindran assumed the mantle of editorship, contributing to the continued scholarly eminence of the publication. Throughout its evolution, the journal’s global acclaim has been upheld by the dedicated stewardship of esteemed editors. This publication stands as a beacon of scholarly achievement, attesting to the significant contributions of the University College to the History Department of the University of Kerala. The journal’s continued pre-eminence solidifies its standing as the foremost academic journal in contemporary academia.
Prof. P. S. Raghavan, a renowned historian and an excellent teacher, served as the Principal of various government colleges in his distinguished career. He also served as editor of the Journal of Indian History and was a member of the Indian Historical Records Commission. Prof. Raghavan assumed the post of Convener for the Regional Records Survey Committee in the state of Kerala. In this capacity, he played a significant role in conceptualising and actualising the first volume of the History of the Freedom Movement in Kerala (1600-1885) Vol. I. This work is an authoritative reference for scholars and enthusiasts engrossed in exploring the socio-political annals of contemporary Kerala. The volume, meticulously crafted under Prof. Raghavan’s scholarly purview, constitutes a substantial and enduring contribution to the regional historiography of modern India. It is a profound testament to Prof. Raghavan’s dedication and prowess as a meticulous researcher and historian.
Another personality associated with the history of the journal is Prof. P.K.K. Menon, a renowned historian from Kozhikode. He was a Professor and Head of the Department of History at the University of Kerala and edited the Journal of Indian History. He was born in 1916 and studied at Maharaja’s College of Arts (now University College), Thiruvananthapuram. He later studied at Madras University, where he received an M.Litt. for his dissertation on “The History of Malabar”. P.K.K. served as a professor of history and political science in various government colleges in Kerala before becoming a university professor in 1966. P.K.K. had a deep passion for literary pursuits, publishing books in Malayalam and English. He also edited the Journal of Indian History and wrote a textbook on World History and State Congress leader Pattom Thanu Pillai. His work on Kerala’s Struggle for Freedom Movement entitled The History of Freedom Movement in Kerala is essential for understanding the socio-political history of the 19th and 20th centuries.
Sooranad P. N. Kunjan Pillai, a versatile figure encompassing roles as a historian, researcher, lexicographer, poet, essayist, literary critic, orator, socio-cultural leader, grammarian, and scholar of the Malayalam language with expertise in archaeology, embarked on his professional journey as an English Teacher at St. Joseph’s School in Thiruvananthapuram. Retiring in 1971 as the Chief Editor of the Malayalam Lexicon at the University of Kerala, he left an indelible mark on education and literature. Upon the demise of P.K.K. Menon in 1970, Sooranad Kunjan Pillai briefly assumed the journal’s editorship. Beyond his editorial responsibilities, he served as the Secretary of the Text Book Committee and held various significant positions, contributing to the cultural and educational landscape. His literary prowess extended to English and Sanskrit, and his enduring impact on art, society, and culture, coupled with dedicated service to linguistic preservation, culminated in the conferment of the Padma Shri in 1984.
Dr. T.K. Ravindran, a renowned historian known for his extensive analysis and perception of historical problems such as caste, class, and social formation, was another important personality associated with the legacy of the Journal of Indian History. As the Professor and Head of the Department of History at the University of Kerala, he was the editor of the Journal of Indian History for a considerable duration, guiding its editorial trajectory and overseeing scholarly contributions. He analysed idols, their philosophy, and praxis through insatiable scholarship. His work, Vaikkam Satyagraha and Gandhi, and Eight Furlongs of Freedom have not waned or been surpassed in research and hermeneutics even after four decades since publication. Dr. Ravindran’s work, Vaikkam Satyagraha and Gandhi, marked a paradigm shift in conceptual insights and nuanced methodology, focusing on the struggle of the underprivileged for legitimacy in history. He believed in the autonomy of facts and linked them to philosophy. Dr. Ravindran’s concern for the subaltern mingled with that of Kumaranasan, who emphasised the importance of social equality and fraternity in political equality. He subjected the administrative system in Malabar to historical scrutiny through his works, critiquing native law for acquitting social injustices and inequity. Dr. Ravindran also criticised the revenue settlements after the Pazhassi Rebellion, which caused havoc in the economic life of Wayanad and led to the enslavement of Kurichiyas. He concluded that decentralisation was not disintegration but a caste-based socio-economic and political order, where caste superiors were patrons and caste inferiors were clients. Dr. Ravindran’s work on Indian feudalism and its implications for the nation’s history is significant, but his approach to understanding the complex relationship between caste, state, and society is often overlooked. He introduced much of the Left and progressive historical writings to Kerala University students, encouraging them to toe an independent line. Dr. Ravindran’s genius was not shackled to any single mooring, and his intellectual journey was characterised by a process of imbibing, assimilating, and rejecting various philosophies and ideas. His contributions to history are reflected in his Festschrift and thematic rubric.
During his editorial tenure, Dr. Ravindran exhibited proactive stewardship through the commencement of specialised editions. These publications served as commemorative endeavours, delineating pivotal epochs in Indian history, thereby underscoring the journal’s unwavering commitment to erudite contributions. Particularly noteworthy among these dedicated issues were the Indian Independence Silver Jubilee Volume of 1972, succeeded by The Golden Jubilee Volume in 1973.
In 1973, he founded and served as the editor of the Journal of Kerala Studies, a crucial initiative that marked the inception of a new era in historical research. The journal thrived on the scholarly contributions of eminent historians, encompassing diverse facets of Kerala studies. Dr Ravindran further orchestrated the publication of a Special Issues in Honour of the World Conference on Malayalam in 1977 and the Diamond Jubilee Volume in 1982, emblematic of the journal’s dedication to scholarly dialogue and the celebration of historical accomplishments. Dr. Ravindran was the Vice Chancellor of Calicut University from 1987 to 1992.
Dr. Ravindran, a prolific writer in his mother tongue, Malayalam, authored several books that left a lasting mark. His literary prowess extended beyond process; he composed numerous poems in both Malayalam and English. Collections such as A Day for Singing, How Many Faces for Truth, Ancient Spring, and Give Me This Flower significantly enriched Malayalam poetry. The Bangalore Regional Institute of English published some of his English poems under Accidentally Yours in 1989, while Macmillan released his collection titled Running to the Eternal Forge. In 1990, three more collections, Invitation to Sweetness, Naturally Yours, and On the Other Shore, were published. Dr. Ravindran’s emergence as a formidable voice in contemporary Indian poetry was underscored by the BBC’s broadcasting of his poem The Dark Flame. In recognition of his literary achievements, Dr. Ravindran was honoured as the “Poet of the Year 1995” by the Society of International Poets, Washington, in 1996.
Anthony Joseph Parel is a distinguished Canadian historian, author, and academic renowned for his significant contributions to political science and historical scholarship. Raised in India, Parel pursued his education in India and the United States, culminating in a doctoral degree from Harvard University in 1963. As a naturalised Canadian citizen, Parel played a pivotal role in the academic community through his valuable books and serving as the co-editor of the Journal of Indian History for a decade. Commencing his academic career at the University of Calgary, Alberta, in 1966, Parel devoted nearly three decades to teaching political science until his retirement in 1994. Even after stepping down, he maintained the title of Professor Emeritus of Political Science at the University of Calgary, a testament to his enduring impact on the field. Parel’s scholarly interests span a wide spectrum, encompassing the works of prominent figures such as Thomas Aquinas, Niccolò Machiavelli, and Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi. His research delves into the intricate relationships between historical events’ political, economic, ethical, and spiritual dimensions, showcasing a multidisciplinary approach to understanding human societies. His editorial contributions were instrumental in producing significant volumes under the auspices of the Journal of Indian History, including the Indian Independence Silver Jubilee Volume, The Golden Jubilee Volume (1973), Special Issue in Honour of the World Conference on Malayalam (1977), and the Diamond Jubilee Volume (1982). Dr. Parel’s lasting legacy has enriched our understanding of political thought, history, and the interconnectedness of various facets of the human experience. His commitment to education and the pursuit of knowledge has left an ineffaceable mark on the academic landscape, inspiring generations of students and scholars alike. His academic collaborations, especially with the department and the Journal of Indian History, strengthened academic exchanges with countries beyond India. His close connection with Dr. Ravindran, serving as editor and the Head of the Department, contributed significantly to establishing such networks.
Dr. M. J. Koshi, a distinguished professor in the department, has dedicated his academic career to the meticulous exploration of the political history of modern Kerala. He was a Professor and Head of the Department of History at the University of Kerala and edited the Journal of Indian History and Journal of Kerala Studies. His scholarship and research have left a lasting impression on the field. Over the years, he has penned several noteworthy works illuminating Kerala’s intricate and multifaceted political landscape. Some of his most renowned contributions include Genesis of Political Conscientiousness in Kerala, which serves as a cornerstone in understanding the origins and evolution of political consciousness in the region. His work on Constitutionalism in Travancore and Cochin probes these princely states’ constitutional developments and intricacies, offering invaluable insights into their political transformations. Another significant work by Dr. Koshi is Last Days of Monarchy in Kerala, which explores the final chapter of monarchical rule in Kerala, providing a comprehensive account of a crucial period of political transition. Remarkably, he also chronicled the life and times of K.C. Mamman Mappilai through a biographical work. This biography not only highlights Dr. Koshi’s dedication to preserving the historical legacies of notable individuals but also contributes to a richer understanding of the socio-political fabric of Kerala through the lens of one of its prominent figures.
Professor K.K. Kusuman, a distinguished historian and expert in modern Indian history, conducted his research under the guidance of Dr. T.K. Ravindran. He exhibited unwavering dedication as a teacher and researcher, contributing significantly to various roles at the University of Kerala and the University of Calicut. He was a Professor and Head of the Department of History at the University of Kerala and edited the Journal of Indian History and Journal of Kerala Studies. K.K. Kusuman’s A History of Trade and Commerce in Travancore, 1600-1805 examines the economic history of Travancore, spanning the 17th to the early 19th century. The book highlights the region’s shift to independence in the mid-18th century and its strategic alignment with the British during conflicts in southern India. The pivotal 1795 treaty, bringing Travancore under British protection, marks a significant turning point in both political and economic spheres. Kusuman’s thorough research sheds light on trade routes, commodities, and economic policies, offering a nuanced perspective on the interconnected dynamics of trade and geopolitics during this transformative period in Travancore’s history. His pre-doctoral work, Slavery in Travancore, discusses the origin and struggle to abolish slavery between 1847 and 1937. English Trade in Travancore examines commercial transactions of the English in Travancore. Kusuman’s work on the Abstention Movement, Extremism in Kerala, and Issues in Kerala Historiography filled a significant gap in Kerala’s historical knowledge. The book A Panorama of Indian Culture (Professor A. Sreedhara Menon Felicitation Volume) delves into the prevailing trends in Indian historiography. Most of the articles in this volume, which emphasise micro and regional studies, attest to this. He was the editor of the Platinum Jubilee Volume of the Journal of Indian History, published in 1998. Dr. Kusuman was a renowned historian who published numerous research papers in international, national, and regional journals. He was a dedicated and objective scholar who believed in the sanctity of empirical data and pursued truth. His studies reflected his philosophy of giving primacy to documents, allowing them to speak. Dr. Kusuman was associated with various academic organisations, including the Institute of Historical Studies, Association of Third World Studies, South Asia Chapter, South Indian History Congress, and Kerala Historical Society. Dr. Kusuman was also involved in publishing the proceedings of the South Indian History Congress, the Kerala History Association, and the Kerala Historical Society.
Dr. B. Sobhanan, formerly Professor and Head and editor of the Journal of Indian History and the Journal of Kerala Studies, possesses more than three decades of expertise in teaching and research. His academic career includes completing his doctoral research at the University of Kerala and subsequently serving as a lecturer in Modern History at Madurai Kamaraj University. Later, he joined the University of Kerala as a faculty member in the Department of History and eventually ascended to Professor and Head of the Department. Dr. Sobhanan has authored numerous research works and edited volumes on various facets of history. He actively participated in the esteemed project on the History of the Freedom Movement in Kerala, contributing significantly to Vol. III. He has also authored over a hundred research papers and supervised over thirty research scholars to obtain their doctoral degrees. He was elected General President of the South Indian History Congress in 2011 and is currently the chairman of International Centre for Sri Vikunda Swami Studies. His notable works include A History of Christian Missions in South India. He collected archival data from the Church Archives of Bangalore to write the book, contributing to the church historiography of Kerala. Dr. Sobhanan has also contributed to the study of various aspects of South Indian culture through books like Temple Entry Movement and the Sivakasi Riots, The Nadars and Temple Entry Movement, Rama Varma of Travancore: His Role in the Consolidation of British Power in South India, Dewan Velu Tampi and the British, and Selected Thinkers and Reformers(co-edited with Isaiah Azariah). He also contributed to the research spectrum of history, including the Practice of Sati in the Madras Presidency, the Gandhian Movement in Tamil Nadu, and the Society and Economy of Medieval and Modern Tamil Nadu.
Prof. Suresh Jnaneswaran commenced his illustrious teaching career in January 1982. In 1985, the University Grants Commission appointed him as a National Associate. Subsequently, he obtained his PhD from Kerala University, focusing his dissertation on ‘Jayaprakash Narayan and the Quit India Movement’. In 2008, Dr. Jnaneswaran assumed the position of Reader in the Department of History at the University of Kerala. He is the author of the pioneering work, The Naxalite Movement in Kerala. He has also authored the monograph, All India Kisan Sabha and The Anti–Imperialist Struggle, 1936-1939. He was the Professor and Head, editor of the Journal of Indian History and Journal of Kerala Studies and published more than twenty-five articles in international and national publications. Invited to contribute a chapter on Kerala to an all-India anthology on the Naxalite Movement, Prof. Jnaneswaran played a significant role in the publication of the esteemed work titled Discourses on the Naxalite Movement 1967–2009: Insights into Radical Left Politics. This prestigious volume was formally unveiled at the Kolkata International Book Fair in February 2010, marking a significant contribution to the scholarly discourse on radical left politics during the specified period. He acted as the Honorary Director of the Mahatma Ayyankali Chair at the University of Kerala and conducted many international and national seminars and workshops. He disseminated his perspicacious observations across diverse domains through the pages of the Journal of Indian History, illustrating the import and thoroughness in his scholarly contributions.
An adept commentator on contemporary political and social issues in nationally renowned periodicals, Dr. Jnaneswaran also held influential positions in various academic and administrative capacities He assumed the role of Local Secretary for the 77th Indian History Congress hosted by the Department of History at the University of Kerala in 2016. Dr. Jnaneswaran has also successfully completed an Oral History Project funded by the University Grants Commission (UGC), meticulously gathering oral history sources from Kerala’s freedom fighters. Additionally, he consistently provided nuanced readings of Indian History as a regular contributor to the Journal of Indian History.
Dr. V. Sathish, formerly Professor and Head of the Department, assumed the editor position of the Journal of Indian History and Journal of Kerala Studies. He started his academic career as a History Lecturer at Government Colleges in Kasaragod and Elerithattu. Dr. Sathish completed a Master of Laws (LLM) at Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT) and a postgraduate degree in history from the University of Kerala.
His significant research contributions are evidenced by his prolific publication record, spanning numerous articles featured in esteemed journals and edited volumes. His research endeavours encompass diverse themes within history and law, delving into unexplored intersections and shedding light on overlooked areas of inquiry, enriching scholarly discourse and expanding our understanding of these complex fields. His perceptive analyses across various thematic domains in the Journal of Indian History showcase the profound character of his scholarly contributions. Additionally, he was involved in academic deliberations through extensive writings that crossed the disciplinary boundaries of the subjects.
Dr. P. Jinimon, an Assistant Professor and the Co-ordinator of the JIH-specific project within the department. He consecrated to advancing the publication of JIH index volumes and related materials as a comprehensive guide. This initiative aims to provide easily accessible reference materials for researchers and practitioners of history across diverse realms of critical historical scholarship. Within this project’s scope, the forthcoming volume is a Special Issue dedicated to the Centenary Volume of the Journal of Indian History. It undertook interviews based on the theme ‘discourses on lived experiences in the practice of history’ with prominent historians of Indian and international reputation. This unique volume seeks to share historians’ experiences regarding their methodologies and practices.
Dr. Shaji A. is the Professor and Head of the Department of History at the University of Kerala, possessing a remarkable academic career spanning twenty-five years and establishing himself as an exemplary academician and researcher. His dedication to teaching and research is remarkable, as he fosters a spirit of inquiry in young historians. He has successfully guided and produced PhD scholars and mentored post-doctoral fellows at the University of Kerala. His extensive list of publications includes books such as Politicisation of Caste Relations in a Princely State: Communal Politics in Modern Travancore (1891-1936), Understanding Environmental History of India, and Ecological Impact of Migration: A Study on Peasant Migration and Ecological Transformation in Idukky District, Kerala. His research articles, exceeding thirty in number, serve as a valuable resource for students and researchers, covering topics like environmental history and social mobility.
Beyond teaching and research, his commitment to academic journals is evident in his editorial contributions to the Journal of Indian History and Journal of Kerala Studies, showcasing his dedication to updating the back volumes of these respective publications. As the editor of the Centenary Volume of the Journal of Indian History, he invested considerable effort to successfully materialise the journal’s advancement to a new era of its publication, reclaiming its heritage and goodwill. Acknowledging his sustained contributions to the National Service Scheme (NSS), he earned recognition as the Best Programme Officer from the NSS at the University of Kerala in 2007. He was also honoured with the Best Programme Coordinator Award by the NSS of the Government of Kerala in 2019-20 and 2021-22.
In this compilation of The Journal of Indian History, earnest efforts have been made to peruse hundreds of articles published over a long period. The journal has been in circulation for more than a hundred years. It took considerable time and effort to bring the journal back to the limelight. The initial process of locating and collecting data and gathering the lost pieces proved to be incredibly challenging. However, as we accumulated all the materials, rediscovering a rich heritage became thoroughly exciting and extremely motivating. After a detailed reading, thematic classification, and careful indexing of the journal articles, an attempt was made to pick a few that have had a monumental impact on the discourse of history writing and the growth of the discipline. Many scholars who are leaders in the field have been consulted, and with their guidance and advice, a compilation of articles has been produced. It was a herculean task to pick and choose matters regarding the construction of the past, and many of us believe this would dilute the fundamental principles we adhere to. However, it was necessary to bring out this institution’s academic gravitas in the public sphere by highlighting some of the finest works produced over the past few years. Thus, we present this compilation of select articles that have appeared in The Journal of Indian History in the past 100 years.
The Journal of Indian History, one of the pioneering academic journals in India constituted to promote historical studies, published numerous research papers that were novel in conceptualisation and presentation. The journal was enriched with several excellent articles from the time of its inception, and the scholars who contributed to the journal were highly motivated to find new vistas of historical studies. D.B. Diskalkar’s ‘A Note on the Jodhpur Inscription of Pratihara Bauka, V.S. 894’ provides a detailed account of Jodhpur’s Eighth Century AD history and its socio-political conditions. The inscription, edited by Munshi Deviprasad and translated by Dr. R.C. Majumdar, identifies Devaraja, the father of Vatsaraja, as belonging to the Bhatti clan. Both Vatsaraja and Siluka claim to have slain and seized the kingdom of the Bhatti or Bhandi king. The inscription also references a king named Mayura, who was defeated by Bauk, possibly referring to a city called Mo-yu-lo near Haridvara.
The compilation starts with an editorial by the legendary archaeologist Sir John Marshall, one of the pioneers of excavation-oriented archaeology in India. In his ‘Mohenjo-Daro and the Indus Civilization’ editorial piece, Marshall throws light on the excavations conducted at Mohenjo-Daro where he had been leading the excavation. This document provides a basic idea of how he perceived the ideas of Indian heritage and his methods of analysis.
Dr. Radhakumud Mookerji’s study on the Guptas reveals the history of a period that covers more than four centuries, from the rise of the Gupta Empire to the times of Emperor Harsavardhana. The author, through deciphering the inscriptions produced in that period, traced out a detailed description about the administrative system of the period. One of the peculiar features of the time was that subordinate kings surrounded the emperor with unique titles like Maharaja, Mahasamanta, Mahapratihara, Mahadandanayaka, and Mahakartakritika. The inscriptions present a hierarchy of officers and administrative divisions, with the Empire’s territory being called a Rajya. The Visaya had its administrative headquarters called Adhisthana. The provincial governor, Uparika-Maharaja, appointed subordinate officials, and the local government staff included village elders, Astakuladhikaranas, Gramikas, Saulkika, Gaulmika, Agraharika, Talavataka, tax collector, and notaries. The government also consulted these officers in land transactions. The Maurya Imperial System was depicted in the Arthasastra of Kautalya and the Edicts of Asoka. The technical terms for officers and departments of administration were archaic.
‘Chronology of Asokan Inscriptions’ by H.C. Seth aims to assign dates to inscriptions during Asoka’s reign. Some records indicate regnal years, while others do not. The major Rock Edicts contain Asoka’s ideology before becoming a Buddhist. Minor Rock inscriptions, such as Rupnath, Sahsasaram, Bairat, Maski, Brahmagiri, Siddhapura, and Jattinga Rameshwar, are considered the earliest of Asoka’s inscriptions. Asoka’s youthful energy was directed towards promoting happiness through administrative measures, and his kindness to all people and animals was a key trait. Ceylonese Buddhist traditions suggest Asoka was crowned 218 years after Buddha Nirvana, ruling for 37 years. The Buddha Nirvana Era was used in early Buddhist circles.
B.C. S. Sharma wrote the article ‘The Prince of Wales Museum Inscription of Jayakesi III, the Kadamba King of Goa’ and it talks about the findings from an inscription of Kadamba king Jayakesi-III, found in the Prince of Wales Museum of Western India, which is now known as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (CSMVS) in Mumbai. The inscription, dated 1200 A.D., is based on the twelfth regnal year of Jayakesi III, who ruled from Goa for 25 years from 1187-88 A.D. The stone on which it is engraved bears the Kadamba family symbolism. The inscription mentions a school built at Senigesvara temple and a piece of land given to God by 200 Mahajanas of EleyaPurvalli. The inscription also provides a third instance of a 13-year-error in the calendar. Haroon K. Sherwani’s ‘Babar’s Inscriptions near Aligarh’ analyses an inscription at Pilakhnah, a small village near Aligarh. The inscription is one of the few extant monuments of Babar’s reign. Humayun’s Well, Jum’a Masjid, and the house of ShaikhBhooran (Ghooran) are also mentioned in this article. These monuments displayed the development of Mughal or Indo-Saracenic architecture and the influence of Shaikh Bhooran on the village. Rama Shankar Avasthy and Amalananda Ghosh’s work, ‘References to Muhammadans in Sanskrit Inscriptions in Northern India- A.D. 730 to 1320’, explores the evolution of the Muslim community in northern India through inscriptions. The authors collected 51 relevant passages from Sanskrit inscriptions of northern India, highlighting their corroborative value and adding fresh facts to our knowledge. The inscriptions, including the terms ‘Yavana’ and ‘Ala-al Din’, and the Khadvada inscription, show that for Hindus, there was no difference between ‘Saka’, ‘Yavana’, ‘Parasika’, and Muhammadan. The earliest reference to the Muhammadans is found in the Nausari grant of Pulakesin, the Gwalior inscription of Bhoja, the Khalimpurgrant of Dharma-Pala, the Ameda Plates of Prthvideva-I, the Chambainscription of Somadeva and Asatadeva, the Mahoba inscription, and the Udaipur inscription of the Paramaras of Malwa.
‘A Portuguese Inscription of the Goa Governor Dom Joao de Castro’, by Rev. H. Heras, details the Portuguese’s rule in Goa. The inscription, originally found in the old city’s wall near St. Catherine’s chapel, depicts a Christian Knight, St. Martin, wielding a sword and dividing his cloak to cover a beggar’s nakedness. The inscription also mentions Dom Joao de Castro’s victory over the Musulmans around Diu, a fort handed over to the Portuguese in 1535. The inscription also says Don Joao de Castro’s title of “Defensor da India” (Defender of India) after a war against a powerful ruler.
T.K. Joseph conducts an important entry with regard to the study of inscriptions in Travancore. Through his work ‘A Travancore Inscription in Greek Script’, T.K. Joseph provides an account of his earnest efforts to decipher the script, which is in the form of an embossed inscription on one of the bells in the Catholic Church at Kuravalangad in North Travancore. Since he was unable to unravel its mysteries on his own, he sent copies of it to several experts in India and Europe. The article talks about the proposed theories and opinions put forward by experts in their letters to the author. The experts include Rev. Fr. H. Heras, Sir John Marshall, Ernst Herzfeld, John Van Manen, Sir J.J. Modi, and Dr. Zwemer. It was found that the inscription began with Greek characters. He has also provided a detailed description of the inscription and a picture of the Kuravalangad Bell.
H.D. Sankalia’s ‘The Philosophy of Archaeology in India or Theoretical and Methodological approaches in Archaeological Interpretation in India’ discusses the history of Indian archaeology, dating back to over a century. It posits that the notion suggesting India had no history before the 11th century A.D. is based on the assumption that ancient cultures were absent in India. The discovery of Mohenjo-Daro led to the discovery of religious monuments like temples, stupas, and mosques. Sankalia discusses the implications of these assumptions and their justifications, mainly by Cunningham and Fergusson. He also discusses the limitations of historical criticism, the relationship between early human chronology and Peninsular India’s environment, and the Pleistocene’s climatic changes.
V.D. Misra’s ‘Archaeological Sequence of the Upper Ganga Valley’ examines the pottery found in the Ganga Valley and provides a historical timeline. The rivers Sindhu and Ganga have played a significant role in the history of ancient India, with the former giving India its name and the latter its faith. Sri B.B. Lal’s excavations of Hastinapur revealed the archaeological sequence of the upper Ganga Valley, with dates proposed for the O.R.P culture before 1200 B.C., Painted Grey Ware between 1100 B.C. and 800 B.C., and the Northern Black Polished Ware between 600 B.C. and 300 B.C. The new sequence of cultures in the upper Ganga Valley provides valuable data about ancient India’s civilisation.
Haran Chandra Neogi’s’ The Dancing Girl of Mohenjodaro’ provides a detailed account of a bronze figure of a dancing girl from the Indus Valley Civilisation. The features of the figure, like long arms, visible joint bones, and a broad forehead, are possibly related to Devadasis. The bronze’s high artistic excellence demonstrates refined technology during the period. The figure’s physical features align with the Devi Purana, which describes her as an older woman giving up her youth to kill Ausra Sukala. Clyde Ahmad Winters’ article explores the Harappan writing on copper plates, revealing the technological prowess of the Harappan people in engraving pottery, copper tablets, axes, and seals. The Harappan script is Dravidian, with signs read from right to left. The tablets likely represented Harappan deities, with Siva associated with bulls. Asko Parpola outlined the number of duplicate iconographic motifs and their corresponding inscriptions.
In ‘A Puzzle in Indian Epigraphy’, Prof. K.M. Shembavnekar discusses inscriptions from the Gupta period. He proposes a better interpretation of Malava-gana-sthiti, which appears in Mandasor inscriptions, and argues that King Vikramaditya was a historical personage. The article also discusses why the era was styled as the Malava era in its early centuries. Fergusson’s theory suggests that the present Vikrama era was founded by the Malava clan, not King Vikramaditya. The article also discusses the opinions of Fleet, D.R. Bhandarkar, and Kielhorn about ‘gana’ and ‘sthiti’. The article concludes that there was no republic in Malava, either in the first century B.C. or before or after. The hypothesis connecting the era with Chandragupta-II is groundless and unserviceable for its purpose.
In his article ‘Development and Decline of Indian Epigraphy’, Prof. D.B. Diskalkar examines the evolution of Indian epigraphy, focusing on its emergence, presentation, structure, and gradual decline. He argues that Indian epigraphy developed with the growth of Indian religious thought, architecture, iconography, political thought, and social institutions. Early Indian inscriptions on Indus Valley seals likely were religious, while Buddhist inscriptions were found on household pots, objects donated in the name of Buddha, and outside of stupas. Buddhism encouraged monastic life, leading to the construction of monasteries and rock caves. Inscriptions related to religious suicide were exclusive to the Jains, while Brahmanical Hindus incised them on Sati stones. The deterioration of Hindu epigraphy was attributed to the use of Sanskrit in literature and epigraphy.
Dr. Mun-keat Choong’s A Discussion on the Determination of the Historical Buddha’s Date attempts to determine a probable date for Buddha’s time but lacks accurate records. Contemporary scholars suggest various dates, including 466-386 BCE and 463-383 BCE. Choong adopts a date of around 268 BCE for Asoka’s coronation, based on Sinhalese, Sarvativadin, and Tibetan traditions. The difference between Buddha’s death and Asoka’s coronation is 218 years, 116 years, or 160 years, with a lifetime of 80 years.
The article titled ‘The Evolution of the Siva Buddha Cult in Java’ by Himansu Bhusan Sarkar explores the changes and transformations that occurred when Buddhism spread to Southeast Asia, including Indonesia. The migration of Buddhism significantly influenced the lives and thoughts of the people living in the region, making it a living force in a large area. Eminent Buddhist scholars from India and Indonesia were proficient in studying authoritative Hinayana and Mahayana texts, with the University of Nalanda encouraging this spirit of enlightened scholarship. The Tantrik contexts of East Indian Buddhism, fostered by missionaries like Dharmapala, Vajrabodhi, Amoghavajra, and Kumaraghosa, significantly influenced Indonesia. The approximation between Saivism and Buddhism and identifying two principal divinities led to much tolerance.
‘Crime and its Punishment in the Jain Canons’ authored by Jagadish Chandra Jain explores ancient India’s judicial and legal systems, focusing on various offences such as robbery, adultery in women, murder, and non-execution of the king’s order. Robbery was considered a regular art in ancient India, with various types of thieves and robbers living in robbery settlements like Corapalli. The robbers were skilled at making wall breaches and were often defeated by the king’s army. Punishments for robbery included imprisonment, mutilation, and death. Women were also punished, with pregnant women exempt from torturous punishments. Adultery in women was punishable with death, imprisonment, and banishment. The non-execution of the king’s order also invited severe punishments, with the disobedient being thrown into salts and reduced to a skeleton.
Dr. N. Subrahmanian’s article, ‘The Status of Women in Ancient Tamilaham’, explores the social status of women in ancient Tamil society during the Sangam age. The text suggests that ideal marriages should be equal in beauty, attainments, wealth, and manners, but if a difference is inevitable, the man should be superior. Chivalry, including special solicitude to women, was considered a noble social virtue. The Sangam society was not egalitarian, with men granting women a markedly inferior status. Women were treated as the weaker sex due to the institution of marriage and property. The ideal conduct of married women was Karpu, which included chastity and unqualified dependence. Women in ancient Tamil society had little independent legal status, and contemporary intellectuals considered this justifiable.
The article written by Dr. S.P. Sangar, ‘Ornaments of Hindu Women in Mughal India’, explores the aesthetic elements of various times. The article discusses the ornaments worn by Hindu women during the Mughal period, highlighting the natural love for jewellery among women of all classes and grades. The use of ornaments in India has been known since the earliest times, with references in the Ramayana and Mahabharata. The Gupta period saw the use of similar jewels, and the sculptures of Sanchi, Barhut, Amravati, Ajanta, and Orissa continue to exhibit the unaltered form of Hindu jewellery. The article also highlights the skilled artisanship of Indian jewellers, who were often seen working in the houses of wealthy and influential people in Mughal India.
Shanti Arora’s ‘Position of Women in India in the 4th century B.C.’ explores the role of women in ancient India, highlighting their respect, love, adoration, and limited inheritance rights. Women were given training in arts, music, dancing, and military and had the liberty to choose their husbands and be respected by their children. They were also free to receive education and found employment in the royal palace. Prostitution was common, and the system of Sati was prevalent. Women had freedom of movement, and love marriages were common. Women held dignity and honour in both their homes and national life.
‘Sarojini Naidu: Women’s Rights Activist and Freedom Fighter’ by Isaiah Azariah is an account regarding the contributions of Sarojini Naidu in the national movement. As a prominent Indian women’s rights activist and freedom fighter, Sarojini Naidu played a significant role in the national movement during the transition period from dependence and romanticism to nationalism. She joined the Indian Nationalist Movement in 1905 and fought for women’s rights, comparing India’s struggle for Independence with women’s equality. Mahatma Gandhi largely impacted Naidu’s political ideology and continued to work in the Indian Women’s Association between 1917 and 1919. Naidu’s resourcefulness and energetic spirit remained unwavering as she worked untiringly to tackle problems faced by women and to oust the British from India.
The Journal of Indian History has devoted a substantial portion of its esteemed pages to the meticulous examination of the medieval epoch within Indian history. Such an endeavour, owing to the journal’s scholarly eminence and the wealth of contributions from luminaries such as Muhammed Habib, Beni Prasad, Iswari Prasad, and contemporary historians, is formidable in scope. Within its meticulously curated articles, this scholarly bastion has meticulously dissected a myriad of facets inherent to the medieval period, spanning societal dynamics, institutional frameworks, cultural paradigms, and the intricate fabric of artistic and architectural expressions. Its centenary volume stands as a testament to its unwavering dedication, as it amplifies the discourse surrounding medieval India through the inclusion of over seven meticulously researched articles penned by eminent scholars. By illuminating the nuances and complexities of this pivotal era, the Journal of Indian History continues to serve as an invaluable resource, enriching our collective understanding and appreciation of India’s rich historical legacy.
Sir Shafaat Ahmad Khan in “The East India Company’s War with Aurangzeb,” probes into the military confrontations between the Mughal Empire and the British East India Company, shedding light on the strategic manoeuvres and the geopolitical implications of these conflicts. Through their depth and scope, this article underscore Khan’s crucial role in laying the foundational stones for historical research within the journal. Beni Prasad, enriches the volume with two significant articles: “The Mughal Government with Special Reference to The Reign of Jahangir” and “The Administration of Sher Shah.” These pieces delve into the administrative strategies and governance models of two prominent rulers, shedding light on the complexities of Mughal administration and the pioneering governance of Sher Shah, which left a lasting impact on the Indian subcontinent. Ishwari Prasad’s contribution, “The Rise and Growth of Khilji Imperialism,” expands the volume’s historical scope by examining the expansionist policies of the Khilji dynasty and their enduring influence on the political landscape of medieval India. This adds depth to the volume’s exploration of imperial and colonial histories, showcasing the diverse thematic interests that the journal has aimed to encompass since its inception.
“Jesuit Annual Letter from Mogor (May 1648-August 1649),” by Rev. H. Hosten, S.J., contributes with providing a rare glimpse into the Jesuit missions in Mughal India through the correspondence of Jesuit missionaries. This piece offers invaluable insights into the cultural and religious interactions between the Jesuits and the Mughal court, enriching our understanding of the period’s cross-cultural exchanges. Beni Prasad’s article “Mughal Government: Conclusion” in JIH offers his observations on the Mughal administration. Ram Prasad Tripathi’s “The Administration of India during the minority of Akber (Maham Anagah and Akber)” provides an in-depth look at the governance challenges and successes during Akbar’s early reign, contributing to a nuanced understanding of Mughal administrative history. Dr A.S. Tritton’s “The Rise of the Imams of Sanaa” investigates into the intricate historical landscape of Yemen, tracing the ascent of the Imams of Sanaa against a backdrop of socio-political upheaval and shifting power dynamics. Tritton’s comprehensive account not only highlights the strategic acumen of the Imams but also places Yemen within the broader context of Islamic history, providing readers with a nuanced understanding of the region’s past. E.B. Havell’s “European Art at the Mughal Court – A Reply” offers insights into the influence of European artistic traditions on the Mughal court, and discussion of the cultural exchanges and the syncretism of art forms during the Mughal era.
Captain Burford Fyldes presents a comprehensive depiction of the life and reign of Emperor Shah Jahan, offering detailed insights into the historical route and governance of this influential Mughal ruler, thereby providing an understanding of his enduring legacy in Indian history. In his article, “The Rebellion of Prince Khusru According to Jesuit Sources,” John A D’Silva delves into the intricacies of the uprising led by Prince Khusru, as documented through Jesuit accounts, providing a scholarly examination of this historical event. W.H. Moreland’s article, “The ‘Kingdomes and Provinces Subject to the Great Mogoll’,” explores the territories and administrative divisions under the rule of the Great Mughal, offering detailed analysis. H.N. Sinha’s work, “An Introduction to the Rise of the Peshwas,” provides a comprehensive overview of the emergence of the Peshwas, thoroughly examining this historical context. Similarly, Muhammed Habib’s “The Khaza’inul Futuh of Amir Khusrau” illuminates the literary and historical significance of Khusrau’s works, bridging the gap between cultural production and historical documentation.
K.S. Lal’s article ‘Caliphal Recognition of Sultans of India’ discusses the relationship between the sultanate and the Caliphate. Sultans held high-sounding titles, earning respect from the people. The recognition of the king by the Caliph, the respected head of the Muslim world, was a moral basis for Muslim political power in Hindustan. The article also discusses Mahmud Ghaznavi’s relationship with the Caliph and the extraterritorial allegiance to the Caliph. A.D. Pusalker’s article ‘Delhi in Pre-Muslim Times’ explores the ancient history of Delhi, a city known for its association with several empires. The ancient name was Indraprastha or Indrapat, also known as ‘Khandava-prastha’. During the Mauryan period, it was unknown and deserted for 792 years. The last Hindu ruler of Delhi was Prithviraja, whom Shihab-ud-din Ghuri defeated in the Battle of Tilauri. In “The Pratihara – Genealogy from Nagabhatta I to Vatsaraja I,” Dr. Sant Lal Katare examines the lineage of rulers from Nagabhatta I to Vatsaraja I, providing a comprehensive exploration of their reigns and historical significance. Another notable attempt by Dr. K. Rajayyan’s research on the “Moghal Conquest of Trichinopoly” offers valuable insights into the military campaigns and conquests of the Mughal Empire in South India. “Malik Ahmad Chap: A Mouthpiece of Barani?” by Ramesh Chandra Sharma investigates the role of Malik Ahmad Chap as a potential mouthpiece for Barani, exploring connections between historical figures and their literary representations. “Peregrination of Medieval Artist – A Study of the Nature and Range of the Activity of the Hoysala Artists” by S. Settar explores the artistic activities and itineraries of medieval Hoysala artists, tracing their contributions to temple architecture and sculpture. K.S. Lal contributes with “The Mughal Harem,” offering a nuanced examination of the inner workings and social dynamics of the Mughal imperial harem.
One of the significant contributions by Dr. M.S. Ahluwalia’s study on “Some Aspects of the 13th Century Agrarian Relations” offers insights into socio-economic factors shaping agrarian dynamics. A rare piece of historical research, Dr. L.P. Pandey’s “Development of Horticulture and Botany in the Early Medieval Period” enriches our understanding of agricultural practices and botanical knowledge prevalent in early medieval times. Prof. K.S. Lal’s work probes into the “Influence of Rainfall on the course of Medieval Indian History (13th -15th centuries).” Through this study, Lal provides a unique perspective on how rainfall patterns shaped historical events and developments in medieval India, highlighting the environmental factors at play. Examining the causes behind the popular apathy to state exploitation in early medieval Kashmir, Dr. Y.B. Singh offers valuable insights into the socio-economic dynamics of the region during that period. Dr. Pramod Sangar’s study on “Water Transport System in India During the Seventeenth Century” thoroughly examines India’s water transport infrastructure and its pivotal role in facilitating trade and commerce during this era. Dr. Ranjith Kumar Roy presents “A Critique of the Trade among South-East Asia, China & Eastern India in the Early Medieval Times,” examining the trade relationships between these regions during medieval times. The centenary volume of the journal is replete with diverse facets of Medieval Indian history, maintaining its steadfast dedication to the exploration of nuanced research within this realm.
Syed Hasan Askarianalyses the historical work Afsana-i-Badshahan or Tarikh-i-Afghani, written by Shaikh Mohammed Kabir. The book provides an account of the descendants of traditional brothers, particularly Kala Lodi, and their relations with Rai Dasrat Khokar. It also discusses the death and defeat of Daud Karrani by the Mughals. Askari highlights the contributions of the Afghans, such as Sikandar Lodi’s religious activities, the attendance of the congregational Friday prayer, and the Afghans’ love for sports. He also discusses the Sultan’s refusal to make caste distinctions and his support for foreign travel. Askari also mentions Nana, a prominent figure in Bombay, who organized public opinion and organized the appointment of “Justice of the Peace.” The book appears to have been compiled during the early years of Jahangir. Dr. A.L. Srivastava’s ‘Shah Walli-Ullah and the Maratha Afghan Contest for Supremacy’ discusses political conflicts and power contestations in the late medieval period. Shah Walli-Ullah, a Sufi saint, worked to establish a foreign, more militant Muslim dynasty on Delhi’s throne, arguing that the Mughals could no longer ensure Islam’s supremacy. He influenced Muslim leaders and organized a confederacy of Muslim powers to resist Maratha’s attempts.
Professor Radhakrishna Choudhary discusses the close relationship between Mithila and Nepal, highlighting the influence of Maithili literature and culture on Nepal’s people. The political relationship between the two states began during the 11th century when eastern India faced foreign invasions. The Karnatas of Mithila entered Nepal during Nanyadeva’s rule, capturing the country and dethroning the ruling princes. The Mallas of Nepal traced their descent to Nanyadeva, and a conflict occurred between them. By the 17th century, Nepal was divided into petty feudal states, with the Karnatas ruling from Bhatgaon. The kingdom was eventually divided into smaller principalities after the death of the most powerful monarch. JaharSen’s article, “Land Routes of Indo-Nepalese Trade in the Nineteenth Century,” explores trade relations between India and Nepal, highlighting ancient routes used by traders in the second half of the nineteenth century. The article provides a detailed description of these routes, including those from Darjeeling, Purnea, Bhagalpur, Darbhanga, Muzufferpore, Champaran, Goruckpore, Basti, Gonda, Baraich, Kheri, and Kumaun. Kapileshwar Labh’s ‘China as a factor in the policy of British India towards Nepal’ discusses the British’s strategic interests and reservations in the region. The English East India Company’s concern for trade with China primarily governed its relations with Nepal. The British were cautious in their policy towards Nepal due to the growth of British trade with China and the decline of Chinese power in the Himalayan States of Nepal, Sikkim, and Bhutan.
Prof. Himansu Bhusan Sarkar’s‘Fa-Hien’s Itinerary from Tamralipti to China’ explores the historical journey of Fa-Hien, who started from Tamralipti in early October A.D. 411. He stayed in Ceylon for two years and then started for China in May in A.D. 414. The journey was described as non-stop, consuming 14 days and nights. Fa-Hien did not mention intermediate ports between Tamralipti and Ceylon, but he said it was a prominent merchant vessel. The route from Ceylon to Ye-Po-Ti and from Ye-Po-Ti to China has been controversial. The article discusses the modern calculation of the distance between Tamralipti and Ceylon, which consumed 14 days and nights. Fa-Hien’s itinerary included the Andaman-Nicobar Island-Kedah, Cho-ye-Ko-Yin-Ye-Po-Ti-Malaya Coast, Gulf of Siam, Indo-China Coast, and West Coast of Hainan-Canton. In ‘Kerala, Sri Lanka and Temple Art’, Ronald M Bernier explores the features of deep south temple art, focusing on rock-cut caves, foundations, and architectural inscriptions. The temples in Kerala, closely associated with the Andhra dynasty, have a unique balance of pure geometry, with bracket figures representing a dancing pantheon rather than a heavenly army. The temples in Kerala are known for their brilliant mural paintings, warm tile and metal roofs, admirable geometry, great open spaces, and theatrical totalities. Their heritage is long, and their place in South Asian art history is important.
The history of South India has been complex due to the penetration of Muslim power into the interior of South India, the establishment of European factories, and the loss of vitality that marked the rule of indigenous princes. This led to the spread of quasi-feudalism, which fostered no institution except that of the tax collector and his whip and ate away all the old native machinery of local administration. Early British historians and writers of South India, such as Col. Mark Wilks, made systematic attempts to interpret the currents and cross-currents that agitated the face of the region until the first decades of the 19th century. Col. Wilks projected for the first time a comprehensive account of the recent history of South India, studied with primary reference to Mysore, based on official information and records, family papers preserved by the nobles, and quasi-historical pieces of work available among the indigenous chroniclers. Narayanan, a Tamil chronicler, wrote the ‘History of the Carnataka Governors’ in about 1803 and submitted it for verification to the Muhammadan amirs of the age and others well-learned in Tamil. His account has remained buried deep amid manuscript treasures accumulated by Col. Colin Mackenzie and stored away in the Government Manuscript Library in Madias.
There has been a comparative neglect of indigenous sources, leading to a lack of sufficient appreciation of this category of material and the contributions of Indian agencies towards the achievements of their heroes. Indigenous, illustrative, and supplementary sources are accumulating in the hands of scholars, throwing light upon the merits and doings of enemy personages that confronted and tried to stem the tide of English expansion. Throughout the 18th century, South India’s stability was not sufficiently recognized by any power, including the British, to devote significant attention and resources to improving administration. The Madras Presidency faced more complex problems than those in Bengal and the territories annexed to that Presidency. The reform of the land system occupied an important place, while the development of recognized laws and law courts held a secondary place.
Col. Colin Mackenzie made his career useful for the present day in research and reconstruction of history, accumulating an extensive and valuable collection of historical documents relating to India. The value of the Mackenzie Collection was first perceived by Col. Mark Wilks, and its scope was amplified by efforts at classification and calendaring by successive generations of scholars, both European and Indian. Dr. S. Krishnaswami Aiyangar of Madras has been the fountainhead of a good stream of historical scholarship and research, understanding all processes from the spadework of quarrying the material to the artistic varnish and fretwork coming at the end.
The first quarter of the twentieth century witnessed anti-Brahmanical movements and close identification with the region’s linguistic territory in the south. The regionalism developed from the arbitrary administrative policies of the time, divided culturally and linguistically identifiable people, and distributed them under the Tamils in the Madras Province. When a proposal was mooted in 1905 to divide Bengal, it was also proposed to merge the Telugu-speaking Ganjam and Vishakapatnam (then in the Madras Presidency), with the proposed Oriya territory. This awakened the Andhra sentiment so much as to make it fight it out through the Indian National Congress and pressurise the Government of India to ultimately abandon it. The Vandemataram and Swadesi Movements, which began during the visit of Bipin Chandra Pal in 1907, led the Andhras to resuscitate their identity so effectively as to make the Andhrula Carutramu (History of the Andhras), published in 1910 by the Vijnana Chandrika Mandali, to become an instant success. This led to an inevitable bitterness between the Aņdhras and the Tamils, who held power. From 1913, the Andhras began to attend the annual sessions of the Indian National Congress more to press their claims than to fight for national independence.
Dr. Aiyangar, who lived in the thick of the non-Brahmin movement, often focused on finding answers to the questions raised by his contemporaries rather than the history of the people of the south. He believed that the position of the Brahmin in South Indian society was crucial, and he sought to make history speak for itself and expose contemporary South Indian society. Dr. Aiyangar’s methodological conventions and his approach to understanding the historical writings of the South Indians highlight the complex relationship between caste, region, and social class in the 20thcentury. These historians were descendants of the custodians of learning, occupying the highest social status and close to Western administration and scholarship. They assisted Western Orientalists in various aspects of history, such as preparing dictionaries, editing classics, and understanding complex rituals and social customs.
Establishing respectable antiquity for the Southern Aryans was not enough; history needed to speak for itself and expose contemporary South Indian society. “The position of the Brahman in South Indian society has been very much to the fore latterly”, wrote Dr. Aiyangar in 1923, and to answer the questions connected with this, he felt that there was a need for investigating the historical experiences. “His position… involved the double responsibility of performing the elaborate ritualistic sacrifices for the benefit of society, the conservation and cultivation of learning… and its propagation as well”. From a “careful investigation of the subject”, we learn that the Brahmin had striven to discharge these responsibilities to the best of his ability and opportunities setting up such a high example in actual life as to invariably exert influence in the direction of uplift which has been felt throughout”.
When Western scholars began to gain prominence, it became a moral and social responsibility of the learned class of the time to find a replacement within society. This led to the establishment of archaeological and epigraphical departments, Oriental institutes, and museums, which came under the care of these learned men familiar with Indian sacred literature, customs, and Western language and learning. The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw tremendous progress in the fields of critical scholars who focused on documents and correlated textual assertions with events of history.
These flaws led to the development of easy formulae and frameworks that dispelled complications and conflicts, promoting the prosperity of the people of the land of all classes. The intellectual exchange between Dr. Butterfield and Dr. Aiyangar reflects the efforts of South Indian historians to discern the ideals of modern thinkers regarding a robust state within ancient legal and societal frameworks. During the 1930s, Dr. Butterfield delivered lectures on establishing a rural civilization in ancient South India. He underscored the significance of farmers as custodians of the land, advocating for equitable rewards for their labour and an enriching quality of rural life. Aiyanagar observed that these contemporary benchmarks were upheld by the administrative systems prevalent in ancient South India.
K.A. Nilakanta Sastri, a prolific South Indian historian, developed a generalization of the Cola social structure, stating that the features of Indian life were the result of earnest efforts to solve pressing problems of social and intellectual life. He evolved the following generalization of the Cola social structure: “Caste was there, and it also Buddhism and the philosophy of the Vedanta; none of them, nor all of them taken together…..well towards the promotion of mutual understanding and goodwill and contentment in a large section of the human race”. The history of the Cola Empire belongs to this earlier and happier phase of India’s history, with many great things accomplished by corporative and voluntary effort, a greater sense of social harmony prevailed and a consciousness of active citizenship was made widespread when the Cola kings held power in southern India than in more recent times. The history of ancient people in South India has been largely based on simple formulae, leading to descriptive histories. The Sangam Age of the South was intended to correspond to the Vedic Age of the Indo-Gangetic plain, while the Augustan Age of Tamil Nadu counterbalanced the so-called “golden age” of the North.
Generations of scholars found fulfilment in tracing the origin and chronology of the Satavahanas, the Sangam Classics, and the Vijayanagara dynasty. However, they did not find it necessary to produce a single-volume account of these dynasties to make their significance and relevance accessible to fellow scholars and the public. This preoccupation with genealogy, chronology, origin, and decline helped produce an ethos where a set vocabulary such as “clinching evidence”, “unique instance”, overwhelming picture”, “unquestionable fact”, “unquestionable authority”, and “firm ground” emerged. The history of South India has been a book of quotations, with the first generation after the 1920s quoting either ancient texts or works of contemporary Western scholars. The generation that succeeded them in the 1940s and 1950s successfully resisted the temptation to reach out to ancient and contemporary Western scholars but had a weakness in building up the story with less-known evidence and plenty of conjecture and imagination.
Dr. T.V. Mahalingam’s’ The Pasupatas in South India’ explores the historical references of the ancient Saiva sect, one of India’s oldest and most widely spread cults. The Pasupatas were worshippers of Pasupati and observers of the PasupataVrata, with the Atharva Siras Upanisad describing the Vrata. The Sarva Darsana Sangraha of Madhava provides an idea about the Lakulisa Pasupatas, representing the end of pain as anatmakamoksa and satmakamoksa. The Pasupatas were divided into sectional groups, including the Kapalikas and Kalamukhas. The Usana Samhita lists the Panktidusakas, including the Pasupatas, Kapalikas, Sramanas, Nirgudhas, and Pancaratras, which are considered heretics. The Pasupatas flourished in South India, with important centres like Kanci, Mayilapur, Kodumbalur, and Tiruvanaikka. In the Karnataka region, the Kalamukhas grew during the Hoysalas and Chalukyas. In the Vijayanagar days, the Pasupatas exercised considerable influence in parts of south India and received the patronage of kings alongside the Advaitins.
T.K. Venkataraman’s article ‘Culture – Contacts in South India’ (in Three Parts) discusses the cultural amalgamation in South India, highlighting the synthesis of different cultures that have contributed to enriching the common heritage. The article examines the origin of the word Dakshinapatha, which is derived from the Deccan plateau, which serves as a separation from north India. The legend of Parasurama, believed to have created Kerala from the sea, may echo Aryan colonization. Brahmanism, Buddhism, and Jainism occupied distinct places in the life of the South Indian community during the Sangam period. Cultural contact increased through the intercourse of peace or effects of war, leading to a fundamental unity of culture that transcended differences of race, language, religion, and environment. The author also discusses the impact on learning and the development of the Malayalam language and the antiquity of Tamil tradition. The article also surveys reciprocal contributions from both North and South regarding religion. The article also discusses the cultural contacts in South India, citing Dubreuil’s view of Dravidian architecture and the influence of Indian religions in the region.
‘The Matrix of South Indian Architecture’, an article by K.V. Soundara Rajan, examines the socio-political dimension of South Indian architecture. It highlights the significant contributions of Agamas, particularly in southern India, to Silpa Sastra. Kamikagama, an important temple in the region, has over three-fourths of its bulk devoted to Silpa and Stapatyaarts. Tantra literature is rich in Silpa lore, with Hayasirsha Pancharatra being akin to the Agni Purana version in vastu matters. The Vesara style, which includes the Nagara, Dravida, and Vesara, was prevalent in South India. The term vimana, which refers to the whole temple, is used to describe the structural erection of the temple in different parts of the main shrine chamber. The article also discusses the shift in emphasis from the main Prasada or Vimana to the Gopuradvara at the end of the imperial Chola period.
D.C. Sircar’s study explores the Grihita-Sahasra, Brahmanadonees in South Indian charters, who received grants for their knowledge of the Samaveda and the four Vedas. They were also known for their scholasticism, as they were referred to as AsitiTarkaka and SahasraTarkaka, respectively. These epithets emphasized the importance of learning and scholasticism in the royal court. R. Champakalakshmi’s article ‘Ornaments in Sangam Age’ explores the jewellery worn by all classes of people during the Sangam period in Tamil India. The Sangam age, typically attributed to the first three centuries of the Christian era, was marked by commercial prosperity and artistic achievements. Ornaments indicating social rank and profession were prevalent, with different names for gold, pearl, and diamond. The Tamils had intimate knowledge of gems and their merits and defects. The methods and technical processes involved in ornament-making were similar to modern methods. The article also discusses the variety of ornaments worn by rulers and chieftains, women, and various body parts, including rings worn on fingers. The article provides insight into the Tamils’ economic life and general affluence during this period.
M.G.S. Narayanan’s “The Mauryan Problem in Sangam Works in Historical Perspective” discusses the possible connections and interactions of the north and south in ancient times. The reconstruction of the story of contact and conflict between the Mauryan Empire and South India is based on the Sangam testimony. The paper also suggested that Mauryan contacts played an important part in quickening the transformation of a semi-tribal society in Tamilakam into a caste-class society of the classical Indian type. Mamulanar, poet of the Sangam age, mentions the Maurya-Kosa invasion of a part of south India. This has produced much scholarly argument, but the issue remains inconclusive. Several disputed points emerged. Most scholars have ignored the location of Mokur while discussing this problem, looked instead for the place named Potiyil, and found it in Potiyilmalai near the Cape Comorin The two passages in which Hamulanar mentions the Mauryas cannot be isolated from the whole context of the Sangam age and its literature. The interesting idea is that the Kosar of Tulundau, the ally of the Mauryas in defeating the chief of Mokur, also figures in the history of Nannan.
Journal of Indian History has been a repository of scholarly articles, offering insights into diverse aspects of South Indian history such as regional narratives, institutional dynamics, archaeology, and epigraphy. Post-independence, South India witnessed a notable historiographical shift, emphasizing regional identities, which spurred movements for state reorganization along linguistic lines. This trend gained momentum in the 1950s, driven by the assertion of linguistic-cultural identities and aspirations for self-governance. Advocates argued that linguistic affinity fostered social cohesion and governance effectiveness. The discourse transcended administrative convenience, reflecting broader societal desires for cultural autonomy. The Journal of Indian History has played a crucial role in documenting this historical evolution, analysing the interplay of historical forces, socio-political dynamics, and cultural identities. Its contributions have enriched our understanding of the complexities surrounding linguistic statehood in South India. Ultimately, the journey towards linguistic state reorganization embodies a significant chapter in Indian history, intertwining scholarly pursuits with political aspirations, and shaping the nation’s contemporary landscape.
The publication of book reviews is an essential part of academic journals. In the Journal of Indian History, Dr. Shafaat Ahmad Khan spent considerable time and energy reviewing essential books during his period. Among them is The English Factories in India 1655-1660, written by William Foster. Khan appreciated the author’s academic enterprise, which utilised an immense variety of archival materials from various repositories in Europe, while lamenting the limitations faced by the author in general and researchers in particular. This is why he underscores the fact that “………… forty-eight thousand volumes of documents contained in the Record Department of India Office may well be envied by the helpless scholar in India, and this is no reason why a comprehensive scheme of active cooperation should not be worked out by the School of Oriental Studies, the New school of Historical research and the India Office Library and Records Departments.”
The first volume of JIH is remarkable for its review of the Essays on Educational Reconstruction in India, authored by eminent historian and diplomat K.M. Panikar. The book is a collection of essays on Education in India that critically analyses the educational system prevalent in early twentieth-century India. The author looked at the undeniable need for reform and social reconstruction of education in India, which could be of national interest and universal in its approach. These essays talk about the problem of national education, the need for vernacular languages and mediums of instruction in secondary schools, university reforms, and the training of children with a formal system of primary and secondary education. K.M. Pannikar was the first Malayali scholar to appear in the annals of the Journal of Indian History. He was an erudite personality who had already established his multifarious brilliance in various walks of life. Other significant book reviews included in this volume are The British Empire, Asoka, the Buddhist Emperor of India, The Economic Effects of War on India, The Indian Point of View in Economics, the Manockjee Limjee Gold Medal Essay of the University of Bombay, Labor, Capital and Finance etc. In addition, A Short History of British Expansion was reviewed as an admirable summary of the history of the British people in “its external aspect” that traces the growth of commerce and colonies from the Norman Conquest to the date of composition of this book. Dr. Khan reviewed all the aforementioned books for the first edition of the Journal of Indian History, which continued for a long time.
In 1927, Prof. Mohammad Habib’s scholarly exploration, Sultan Mahmud of Ghaznin: A Study, became the focal point of historical discourse, and the work received a critical review by C.S. Srinivasachari. While acknowledging the strengths of Prof. Habib’s study, the review offered a discerning analysis of its methodology, research depth, and interpretative framework. Srinivasachari’s companion piece article added a valuable layer of critique, enriching the understanding of Sultan Mahmud’s era within the broader context of medieval South Asian history. Together, these contributions reflect the dynamic interplay of scholarship and critique, fostering a deeper appreciation for the complexities surrounding Sultan Mahmud of Ghaznin.
V.R.R. Dikshitar provides a comprehensive review of H. Heras’s work, The Aravidu Dynasty of Vijayanagar. In this book, Heras delves into the historical intricacies of the Aravidu dynasty, a significant period in the Vijayanagar Empire. Dikshitar’s review critically evaluates the book’s content, examining the author’s research methodology, the depth of historical insight, and the overall contribution to understanding the Aravidu dynasty’s rule. Published information indicates that the review is a valuable companion to Heras’ original work, enriching the scholarly discourse surrounding the history of Vijayanagar. The book and its review offer readers a nuanced perspective on the Aravidu dynasty’s legacy, underscoring the importance of historical scholarship in unravelling the complexities of South Asian history. W.H. Moreland’s The Agrarian System of Moslem of India, A Historical Essay with Appendices, reviewed by C.S. Srinivasachari, in a perceptive review, applauds the book’s significant contribution to Indian history, noting the depth of research, clarity in exposition, and the enriching insights found in the appendices. Srinivasachari’s evaluation positions Moreland’s work as an enduring historical essay, providing scholars and students with a valuable resource for understanding the complexities of the agricultural system during Muslim rule in India.
In a comprehensive book review published in the Journal of Indian History, the work of M. Arokiaswami, The Kongu Country by K.A. Nilakanta Sastri, is hailed as a meticulous and systematic exploration of the historically neglected Kongu Nadu region. Authored by Sastri, the review underscores Kongu Nadu’s turbulent past, marked by invasions from various South Indian imperial powers enticed by its abundant natural resources and thriving commerce, extending even to the Roman Empire during the early Christian era. Arokiaswami’s contribution is praised for providing a detailed historical account based on original sources, shedding light on the region’s progress in literature and arts despite frequent wars. The geographical significance of Kongu Nadu, serving as a trans-peninsular highway, is highlighted for its impact on trade routes. The review anticipates that Arokiaswami’s work will be a valuable addition to the broader history of South India, emphasising the importance of local history in constructing a comprehensive understanding of the country.
Another notable book review that provides a nuanced evaluation is P.K.K. Menon’s review of Guru Nanak and the Sikh Religion by W.H. McLeod. McLeod’s comprehensive exploration of Guru Nanak’s life and teachings, stemming from his 1965 PhD thesis, is recognised for its pioneering approach. The book challenges traditional hagiographic narratives through a rating scale applied to Janam-sakhis, yet Menon highlights concern about potential bias influencing the author’s conclusions. The scepticism regarding Nanak’s alleged travels to Mecca and Baghdad is discussed, emphasising the controversy surrounding these aspects. Despite criticism, the review applauds the book’s contribution to Sikh discourse, especially the presentation of Nanak’s teachings, and acknowledges it as the first English-language book on Sikhism that the reviewer truly enjoyed, commending McLeod’s appreciation for Guru Nanak’s work and educational background.
R.C. Majumdar is one of the significant Indian historians of the past century. His work ranges from ancient Indian history (Corporate Life in Ancient India) to regional history (The History of Bengal) to Far Eastern and Southeast Asian history (Ancient Indian Colonies in the Far East). Initially appointed by the government of India to helm a committee to write the history of the freedom struggle in India, he left after disagreements with the Education Ministry and published his own The Sepoy Mutiny and the Revolt of 1857. Later, he published the History of the Freedom Movement in India in three volumes. He also wrote An Advanced History of India and (as general editor and contributor) was behind the 11-volume series The History and Culture of the Indian People (1951-1977). He has made a long-lasting relationship with the Journal of Indian History through various engagements as the author of articles and reviewer of essential books in Indian history. His review of the seminal work of Kosambi, The Culture and Civilisation of Ancient India in Historical Outline, is a critical appreciation of the work, followed by two entirely different schools of thought in History. Kosambi’s work An Introduction to the Study of Indian History, published in 1956, is the focus here, rather than his subsequent publication, The Culture and Civilisation of Ancient India in Historical Outline, which came out in 1965.This is because the latter was a simplified and condensed popular version, broadly following the same framework and enunciating similar ideas. It even included several photographs used in ‘An Introduction’. The most striking difference appears to be in the introductory sections of the two books. Whereas ‘An Introduction’ was interspersed with long quotations from the works of Karl Marx, those are missing in The Culture and Civilisation of Ancient India. Similarly noteworthy is the introductory paragraph within a subsection addressing “The Difficulties Facing the Historian” in The Culture and Civilisation of Ancient India in Historical Outline by Kosambi. Culture, for him, was not a separate entity but an intrinsic part of the making of a historical context.
In a review of William Foster’s work, English Factories in India: 1665-1667, the meticulous examination of English trading posts in India during this specific period was commended. The reviewer acknowledged Foster’s use of archival records and historical documents from the East India Company, emphasising how these sources were employed to unveil English trade operations, challenges, and successes in late 17th-century India. The review highlighted Foster’s contribution in providing valuable insights into the commercial strategies, diplomatic engagements, and local dynamics that defined the English East India Company’s presence during this crucial historical phase. By focusing on the formative years of 1665 to 1667, Foster effectively captured a snapshot of the early stages of British trade in the Indian subcontinent, foreshadowing the significant colonial presence that would follow.
In his insightful review for the Journal of Indian History, T.K. Ravindran engages with Niels Steensgaurd’s Carracks, Caravans, and Companies: The Structural Crisis on the European Asian Trade in the Early 17th Century with a discerning eye. Ravindran appreciates Steensgaurd’s meticulous exploration of the complex interplay between carracks, caravans, and commercial companies during a transformative period in the early 17th century. The review likely highlights Steensgaurd’s nuanced analysis of the structural crisis that gripped the European-Asian trade network, shedding light on the challenges and transformations that shaped this historical epoch. Ravindran may commend the author’s ability to unravel the intricacies of this trading system and its broader implications, offering readers a comprehensive understanding of the economic dynamics of the time.
Romila Thapar’s review of The Roots of Ancient India: The Archaeology of Early Indian Civilization by Walter Ashlin Fairservis Jr. and Jan Fairservis, published by Macmillan in London in 1971, offers a critical analysis of the book in light of contemporary perspectives on ancient Indian history. Thapar engages with the text by considering how it aligns with or challenges the then-current understanding of ancient India, particularly in the context of emerging archaeological findings during the book’s publication. Her examination likely delves into the implications of the new archaeological evidence presented by the Fairservis duo and how it contributes to the broader discourse on the history and civilisation of early India.
In reviewing B. Sobhanan’s Dewan Velu Tampi and the British, Tarasankar Banerjee meticulously unravels the historical enigma surrounding Velu Thampi Dalawa of Travancore. Departing from biased accounts that either extol Thampi as a virtuous hero or vilify him as a cruel tyrant, the author employs critical scholarship to objectively analyse Thampi’s personality, policies, and historical significance. Drawing on previously unexplored archival sources, Dr. Sobhanan strips away the layers of myth and propaganda woven around Thampi, offering a nuanced portrait free from excessive heroism or malevolence. The book challenges established narratives, prompting a re-evaluation of Thampi’s legacy while addressing the reliability of English documents in the absence of local sources.
Book reviews in esteemed academic journals like the Journal of Indian History hold profound significance in maintaining high academic standards and advancing knowledge dissemination within history. The journal, renowned for its commitment to scholarly excellence and review processes, is a distinguished platform for critically evaluating historical literature. What sets the journal apart is the active participation of eminent historians who contribute their discerning perspectives to the review process. These historians, with their extensive experience and deep understanding of historical methodologies, bring a unique and invaluable dimension to the critiques featured in the journal. Their involvement ensures that only works of the highest calibre receive attention, adding a layer of authority and credibility to the journal as a trusted source for cutting-edge historical scholarship. The reviews, marked by meticulous examinations of methodological precision, theoretical foundations, and historical relevance, offer scholars a nuanced understanding of the works under consideration. In the past, reviewing books was for a restricted and limited audience of educated people presumed to be capable of making their judgments regarding the quality of books. However, the establishment and growth of formal public education expanded the reading public, necessitating the publishing of more books. Consequently, competition among publishers regarding the number of books to be published, what books would bring a profit, and so on ensued.
They serve as intellectual guideposts, directing researchers toward literature that not only meets the stringent criteria of the journals but also makes substantive contributions to broader scholarly engagements. The journal’s unwavering commitment to exacting standards ensures that the discourse within its pages maintains a level of excellence that enriches the historiography. By featuring reviews authored by eminent historians, the journal acknowledges these scholars’ contributions and cultivates a culture of excellence in historical research. This dynamic interplay between eminent historians and the journal becomes a cornerstone for shaping the trajectory of historical scholarship, fostering a community dedicated to pushing the boundaries of knowledge within the discipline.
Within the esteemed academic sphere, the Journal of Indian History is a venerated bastion of intellectual discourse. It firmly upholds its commitment to scholarly exchange through a dedicated section termed ‘Our Exchanges’. This acknowledgement and commendation underscore the Journal of Indian History’s elevated standing in the academic echelons. Within a specific chronological period, distinguished scholars and editors of leading journals in India diligently sent copies of their scholarly publications to the discerning editor of the journal promptly after their respective releases.
Among the distinguished journals contributing to this scholarly consortium is the venerable Annals of the Bhandarkar Oriental Institute in Poona (present-day Pune). In the inaugural address, R.G. Bhandarkar stated: “The Institute aims to promote inquiry into the history of India, including literary, social, and political aspects, among its members and provide facilities for outsiders. It encourages scholars to deliver lectures, read papers, and publish them in a journal.” The contributions from this knowledge repository, bound to a tradition of rigorous scholarship, add a complex and profound layer to the broader academic discourse that journal facilitates. Another notable contributor, the consequential Annual Bulletin of the Nagpur University Historical Society, emanates from Nagpur and plays an integral role in shaping the trajectory of historical research and fostering nuanced academic discourse in history. As a stronghold for historical scholarship, this publication served as a crucible for deliberative discussions and rigorous analyses, exemplifying the intellectual tenor that journal actively engages with and amplifies. This collaborative exchange underscores the journal’s commitment to regional diversity and the encompassing embrace of varied historical narratives. Poona, a centre of scholarly pursuits, boasted the BharataItihasa Samshodaka Mandala Quarterly and contributed significantly to the expansive panorama of Indian historical inquiry. The quarterly publication has entrenched itself as a locus for comprehensive research and scholarly engagement; its inclusion in the collaborative effort with journal epitomised the synergistic relationship that fosters intellectual maturation and cross-fertilization of ideas.
Brahma Vidya, the Adyar Library bulletin, which was started in 1937 by Dr. C. Kunhan Raja, Director of the Adyar Library and Research Centre at the International Headquarters of the Theosophical Society, established itself as a leading publication in Sanskrit and Indological studies. It presents studies on religion, philosophy, various aspects of Sanskrit and other Oriental literature, and ancient texts and translations. By incorporating ideas from this venerable knowledge repository, the collaboration between the journal and Brahma Vidya facilitated scholarly engagement that enhanced the intellectual whereabouts. Britain Today from London served as an example of the inclusion of an international viewpoint, underscoring the cosmopolitan aspects of the academic collaboration that the Journal of Indian History organised. The global purview of this journal accentuates the interconnectedness of historical studies across geographic boundaries, engendering an international dialogue in the pursuit of historical knowledge. Published from Delhi, Bulletin of the Archaeological Survey of India is pivotal in this collaborative effort, deeply embedded in preserving and exploring India’s archaeological heritage. Amplified through collaboration with the Journal of Indian History, it contributed substantively to a holistic understanding of India’s historical narrative. Ancient India, a bulletin of the Archaeological Survey of India, began in 1946 and became an annual publication in 1949. It covers exploration, excavation, conservation, technical notes, art, and iconography. The journal has 23 issues up to 1966 and was revived as Ancient India-New Series in 2011.
The Bulletin of the Deccan College Research Institute from Pune is a publication intrinsic to the renowned research institute. This journal serves as an invaluable reservoir of cutting-edge research and scholarly contributions; its collaboration with the journal transforms it into an integral component of a broader academic conversation that enriches the discourse on historical studies. London’s historical and academic eminence significantly contributed to a global understanding of history, making the Bulletin of the Institute of Historical Research the epitome of the international collaboration that the journal fostered. This exchange transcends geographic boundaries, creating a symbiotic relationship that transcends national borders to pursue historical knowledge. The London-based Bulletin of the School of Oriental and African Studies adds another academic publication to the global collaboration. Focused on Oriental and African studies, this publication introduces diverse perspectives and contributes a more comprehensive understanding of historical narratives beyond the Indian subcontinent. The collaboration with the journal bridges the gap between regional and global historical studies.
The Calcutta Review disseminated a regional dynamic into this scholarly exchange, portraying the diverse historical perspectives emanating from Calcutta (present-day Kolkata). This collaboration ensures that insights and research from this significant region are integrated into the broader academic discourse on Indian history. Commercial Review and Concord from Calcutta further spotlight the regional richness brought into the fold through the journal’s scholarly exchange. These publications, representing the commercial and cultural dimensions of the region, contribute to a nuanced understanding of India’s historical and economic evolution. The collaboration ensures that these regional perspectives are seamlessly woven into the broader fabric of historical studies.
Another significant academic journal from Madras, The Federated India, is notable for its diversity in this scholarly exchange. During this period, Madras was a cultural and intellectual hub in southern India, and Federated India’s contributions brought forth this region’s unique historical narratives, contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of India’s diverse past. Baroda’s Gaekwad’s Oriental Series stands out as a repository of oriental studies rooted in the region’s cultural heritage. The collaboration with the Journal of Indian History ensures that the insights and research from this series are disseminated to a wider audience. “The Hindustan Review” from Patna brings forth the historical narratives of the eastern region of India. With its cultural and historical significance, Patna has been a centre for intellectual pursuits in the east of India. The collaboration with the journal ensures that the research and insights from “The Hindustan Review” are woven into the broader fabric of historical studies. The Indian Appeal, edited by Hira Lal Kumar, was a notable journal published in Calcutta, Oxford, and London. Its first series ran from September 1889 to April 1892, spanning Volume 1 to Volume 4, with a second series commencing in 1907. The journal, a platform for diverse perspectives, reflected the global interest in its topics and showcased Kumar’s editorial influence. The decision to launch a second series in 1907 highlighted its enduring importance, marking its legacy as a historical source of intellectual engagement and cross-cultural dialogue.
Indiana from Benares exemplifies the historical richness of the city. Because of its spiritual and cultural significance, Benares has been a centre for intellectual pursuits in northern India. Indiana’s collaboration with the journal ensured that the insights and research from Indiana contributed to a more comprehensive understanding of India’s diverse historical narratives. The Indian Historical Quarterly from Kolkata (formerly Calcutta) contributes significantly to the intellectual landscape of the eastern region of India. Kolkata has been a historical hub for intellectual pursuits. The collaboration ensures that the research and insights from this quarterly are integrated into the broader academic discourse on Indian history. G.A. Natesan edited and published The Indian Review: A Monthly Journal in Madras (now Chennai), from 1900 to 1982. This long-standing publication served as a monthly forum, contributing to intellectual discourse and cultural insights over its extensive 82-year existence. Under Natesan’s guidance, The Indian Review became a significant periodical, lasting impacting the literary and intellectual landscape during its publication span.
The Benares Hindu University Magazine, a quarterly journal published by the Benares Hindu University from 1901 to 1936, paved the way for the subsequent Journal of the Benares Hindu University. Initially edited by K.V. Rangaswami Aiyangar (Vol. 1 and Vol. 2) and later by U.C. Nag (Vol. 3 to Vol. 9), the journal transitioned to an editorial board led by N.N. Godbole, P.S. Varma, J.P. Sharma, and C.N. Menon. Published by The Hindi Publication Board at the Benares Hindu University, the Journal of the Benares Hindu University materialised in 1937 and continued at least until 1953. This academic periodical was crucial in disseminating scholarly contributions and research from the university community. The Journal of the Bihar and Orissa Research Society, published by the Bihar and Orissa Research Society, was active from 1915 to 1943 (Vol. 1 to Vol. 29), headquartered in Bankipore and later in Patna. Following its conclusion, the Journal of the Bihar Research Society took up the mantle in 1944, maintaining its affiliation with the Bihar Research Society in Patna. This transition marked a seamless continuation of scholarly pursuits, signifying the society’s commitment to research and intellectual growth.
Journal of the Bombay Branch of the Royal Asiatic Society from Bombay (now Mumbai) stands out as a repository of historical studies. With its historical and economic significance, Bombay has been a centre for intellectual pursuits in Western India. The collaboration with the Journal of Indian History ensures that the insights and research from this journal are disseminated to a broader audience, contributing to a more nuanced understanding of India’s cultural and historical roots. The Journal of the Bombay Historical Society, under the editorship of Braz A. Fernandes, was a biannual publication by the Bombay Historical Society. It was issued from March 1928 to September 1932 and resumed publication from March 1939 to 1941, covering Volumes 1 to 6. As a significant contribution to historical scholarship, the journal provided a platform for research and insights under the guidance of Dr. Fernandes. The collaboration with the Journal of Indian History ensures that the research and insights from this journal are integrated into the broader academic discourse on Indian history.
Journal of the Numismatic Society of India from Bombay adds another layer to the regional diversity in this scholarly exchange. With its historical and economic significance, Mumbai has been a centre for intellectual pursuits in western India. This journal’s contributions bring forth this region’s unique historical narratives, contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of India’s diverse past. The Journal of Oriental Research, Madras, established in 1931 by Mahamahopadhyaya S. Kuppuswami Sastriar, operated under the editorial leadership of P.S. Sivaswami Aiyar. Published quarterly from September to June, the journal gained international recognition, with subscriptions from libraries and universities in India, England, Germany, and America. Regular publication continued until 1942, when it was temporarily halted due to the evacuation of Madras during World War II. Following Sastriar’s death, the Kuppuswami Sastri Research Institute was founded in his memory in Mylapore, Chennai. The institute revived the journal in 1945, with V.S. Srinivasa Sastri expressing the hope that it would serve as a platform for scholars to share their research in the first issue of the new series published in September 1945. The collaboration with the Journal of Indian History ensures that the insights and research from this journal are disseminated to a wider audience. Journal of the Sadula Rajasthan Research Institute from Bikaner adds another layer to the regional diversity in this scholarly exchange. Bikaner has been a centre for intellectual pursuits in northern India. This journal’s contributions bring forth this region’s unique historical narratives, contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of India’s diverse past.
Sri Venkateswara Oriental Research Institute was started in July 1939 by the management of Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams with a view that it should be a first-rate research and training centre with appropriate divisions for the study of Sanskrit and other languages of the Hindu religion and Philosophy and Hindu culture generally. The institute published a journal called The Journal of the Sri Venkatesvara Oriental Institute. It appeared in four parts in 1940 but has now been made half-yearly in two larger parts. There are also publications of two varieties, editions of old works and original treatises, which are either critiques or translations. With its cultural and spiritual significance, Tirupati has been a centre for studying oriental traditions. The collaboration with the Journal of Indian History ensures that the insights and research from this journal are disseminated to a larger body of readers. The Journal of the United Provinces Historical Society, released from 1917 to 1949 (Vol. 1 to Vol. 22), was the publication of the United Provinces Historical Society. The journal changed its publishing locations, initially by Longmans, Green and Co. in Calcutta (Vol. 1 to Vol. 4, No. 1), followed by the Indian Press in Allahabad (Vol. 4, No. 2 to Vol. 12, No. 1), and later by the U. P. Historical Society in Lucknow. The Journal of the University of Bombay launched in 1932, was an interdisciplinary publication by the University of Bombay. It featured separate issues dedicated to “History, Economics, and Sociology,” “Arts and Law,” “Physical Sciences, Including Mathematics,” and “Biological Sciences, Including Medicine.” The journal commenced in 1932 and served as a platform for diverse academic contributions across various disciplines. The collaboration with the Journal of Indian History ensures that the research and insights from this journal are integrated into the broader academic discourse on Indian history.
The Karnatak Historical Association was founded by Sri V.B. Alur in 1914 for propagating historical interest in Karnataka. The association was registered under the name of “Karnatak Historical Research Society” on March 25, 1930, and the journal, devoted to the problems connected with history and culture, started in 1931. The society published the sixth volume as Silver Jubilee Number in 1939, and volume seven appeared in 1948. The Karnataka Historical Review from Dharwar showcases the historical richness of the region. Through its partnership with the Journal of Indian History, it ensured that the perspectives and research findings from this journal added depth to the comprehension of India’s cultural and historical origins. It was established in 1915 in Bangalore. The Kannada Sahitya Parishad aimed to promote Kannada culture and language, advocating for the unification of Karnataka. Karnataka Sahitya Parishat Patrika from Bangalore adds another layer to the regional diversity in this scholarly exchange. Bangalore is a centre for intellectual pursuits in southern India, and the journal’s contributions bring forth the region’s unique historical narratives.
Man in India from Ranchi stands out as a repository of anthropological studies. With its cultural and historical significance, Ranchi has been a centre for studying human societies. The collaboration with the Journal of Indian History takes the insights from this journal to a broader audience, thereby enhancing a more nuanced understanding of India’s vibrant past. This extensive list not only underscores the Journal of Indian History’s prowess in fostering widespread academic engagement but also accentuates the rich tapestry of regional diversity seamlessly interwoven into the overarching fabric of historical studies.
The journal of The Toyoshi-Kenkyu, The Journal of Oriental Researches, published by the Kyoto University Japan, is still maintaining its academic exchanges with our journal through these years from 1935 onwards. The Society of Oriental Researches promotes research in the history of the Orient and Afro-Eurasia. The oriental society was established by the Department of Oriental History, College of Letters, Kyoto Imperial University, and the Department of Oriental History and the Department of West-Asian History, Faculty of Letters, Kyoto University.