'This book provides a substantial body of information regarding vital archaeological research of South Asian region. By gathering an insight into the field walking experience of South Asia, this book fulfills a long-felt need for a precise understanding of South Asian archaeology. This book will be essential reading for archaeologists throughout the world.' Prishanta Gunawardhana, University of Kelaniya and Director General of Central Cultural Fund, Sri Lanka
Part I. The Context: 1. Introduction and definitions; 2. Environment and culture: South Asia's environmental, linguistic and religious patterns; 3. Histories of South Asian archaeology; Part II. The Indus Valley Tradition c.6500–1900 BCE: 4. Food producers: multiple Neolithics (c.6500–2000 BCE); 5. Regionalisation and differentiated communities (c.5000–2600 BCE); 6. An era of integration: the Indus civilisation (c.2600–1900 BCE); 7. Localisation: transformations of a system (c.1900–1200 BCE); Part III. The Early Historic Tradition (c.1900–200 BCE): 8. South Asia: transitions and continuities (c.1900–1200 BCE); 9. The re-emergence of regional differentiation (c.1200–600 BCE); 10. Reintegration: towards an early historic world (c.600–250 BCE); 11. The Mauryans and the Asokan ideal (c.321–185 BCE); Part IV. Conclusions: 12. Conclusions and challenges.