**Ancient Indian History: Sources**

Ancient Indian history refers to the period before the arrival of Muslim rulers in India, which includes the Indus Valley Civilization, Vedic period, Mauryan Empire, Gupta Empire, and several other dynasties and kingdoms that ruled the Indian subcontinent.

Understanding ancient Indian history relies on the analysis and interpretation of various sources that provide valuable information about the political, social, economic, and cultural aspects of that time. These sources can be broadly classified into two categories: literary and archaeological sources.

**I. Literary Sources:**
1. **Vedas**: The Vedas, composed during the Vedic period (1500-500 BCE), are the oldest sacred texts in Hinduism. They provide insights into the religious, social, and cultural practices of the time.
2. **Epics**: Epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata, composed around 500 BCE to 500 CE, are not only great works of literature but also offer valuable historical information about ancient India, including the genealogy of various dynasties and kingdoms.
3. **Puranas**: Puranas are ancient Hindu texts that contain myths, legends, and genealogies of kings. They provide valuable historical information about ancient Indian dynasties and their rulers.
4. **Jataka Tales**: Jataka Tales are stories about the previous lives of Gautama Buddha, which contain references to the social, political, and cultural milieu of ancient India.
5. **Foreign Accounts**: Accounts of foreign travelers and historians like Megasthenes, Fa-Hien, and Hiuen Tsang provide valuable insights into ancient Indian polity, society, and culture.

**II. Archaeological Sources:**
1. **Indus Valley Civilization**: Excavations at Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro have unearthed a wealth of archaeological remains, including seals, pottery, tools, and structures. These artifacts provide valuable information about the Indus Valley Civilization (2600-1900 BCE).
2. **Rock Edicts**: Emperor Ashoka's rock edicts, found in different parts of India, provide insights into the political and social policies of the Mauryan Empire (322-185 BCE).
3. **Inscriptions**: Inscriptions found on pillars, caves, and temple walls provide information about the rulers, their achievements, and the socio-political conditions of ancient India.
4. **Coins**: Coins minted by various rulers help in understanding the economic and political systems of different periods.

In conclusion, the study of ancient Indian history relies on a combination of literary and archaeological sources. These sources provide valuable insights into the political, social, economic, and cultural aspects of ancient India, helping us reconstruct the past and understand the rich heritage of the Indian subcontinent.

NCERT class 11 by RS Sharma