Politics, ritual
and religion:
state formation
in early India
Principle investigator
Project director, India
- Dr. K.K. Maheshwari, Indian Numismatic, Historical and Cultural Research Foundation
Supported by
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From about 320 to 550 CE, the Gupta dynasty dominated South Asia. The period of the Guptas was marked by relative political stability and an astonishing florescence in every field of endeavour. Sometimes characterized as a 'Golden Age', this was a pivotal moment in Asian history
Viewed through modern intellectual, geographical and political boundaries the diverse cultures, complex polities and varied networks of the Gupta period - from the Tarim basin to Burma and beyond - remain specialist subjects. The aim of this project is to move beyond these boundaries for the first time and so recover this profoundly influential civilisation.
Rock-crystal seal of king Avarighsa.
Western India, 4th century
About the project
The Gupta kingdom and its networks had an enduring impact on India and a profound reach across central and southeast Asia in a host of cultural, religious and socio-political spheres.
The research team, based in the British Museum, will delineate and assess the significance of the Gupta Age and its pan-Asian impacts.
Project research
As the project continues, the research outputs will be highlighted here.
Maps showing epigraphic find-spots and related archaeological sites
Wikipedia articles on inscriptions
Project team
This collaborative project is being led by a team of scholars and institutions
- Hans T. Bakker, University of Groningen
- Paul Dundas, University of Edinburgh
- Derek Kennet, Department of Archaeology,
Durham University - Harriet Lacey, Department of Archaeology, Durham University
- Dr. K.K. Maheshwari, Indian Numismatic, Historical and Cultural Research Foundation
- Cam Sharp Jones, British Museum
- Sam van Schaik, British Library
- Michael Willis, British Museum
Images: Bottom left: map showing the position of the Gupta Kingdom. Middle: gold coin of Kumaragupta I.
Bottom right: Udayagiri, central India.