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The Wonder That Was India by A. L. Basham

The Wonder That Was India by A. L. Basham

Rs. 199.00
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Book Summary

The Wonder That Was India by Arthur Llewellyn Basham is a landmark work first published in 1954, offering a comprehensive and scholarly yet accessible account of India’s ancient civilization up to the arrival of the Muslims. The book presents a detailed picture of India’s political, social, cultural, religious, and intellectual development, with particular attention to Hinduism, Buddhism, art, literature, and philosophy. Basham counters the colonial narrative that portrayed ancient India as static or backward by highlighting its rich pluralistic traditions, advanced urban planning, mathematical and scientific achievements, and vibrant philosophical schools.

He draws from original Sanskrit, Pali, and Prakrit sources, as well as archaeological findings, to reconstruct the complexity of Indian civilization. Basham’s tone is respectful and admiring, yet rooted in academic rigor. The book remains a foundational text for anyone seeking to understand India’s ancient past from a balanced, deeply researched perspective.

About the Author:

Arthur Llewellyn Basham (1914–1986) was a renowned British Indologist, historian, and professor of Asian civilizations. Educated at SOAS, University of London, Basham became a leading authority on Indian culture and religion. He served as Professor and Head of the History Department at SOAS and later taught in Australia. Basham mentored several prominent historians, including Romila Thapar, and was widely respected for his deep empathy toward Indian civilization and his ability to communicate its richness to global audiences. His writings, especially The Wonder That Was India, helped reshape Western perceptions of India, moving beyond colonial stereotypes to portray an advanced, diverse, and intellectually vibrant society.

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