Social and Religious Aspects in Bengal Inscriptions By R. K. Tripathi

Book Description

"Social and Religious Aspects in Bengal Inscriptions" delves into the inscriptions of ancient Bengal, illuminating the social and religious dynamics of the region. Dr. R. K. Tripathi presents a meticulous examination of these inscriptions, which serve as vital historical documents reflecting the lives and beliefs of Bengal's past. This work aims to complement existing scholarship on the political history of Bengal by offering a focused study on its cultural and spiritual heritage, making it accessible to both scholars and interested readers.

About the Author

Dr. R. K. Tripathi holds an M.A. in Sanskrit (1964) and a Ph.D. from the University of Calcutta (1978), where he studied under Dr. Sukumar Sengupta. He began his teaching career in 1965 at Surendranath College and has since served as Head of the Department of Sanskrit at Surendranath Evening College. Renowned for his scholarly contributions, Dr. Tripathi has presented at epigraphical conferences and published research papers. In addition to his academic pursuits, he has been an active part-time commissioned officer in the National Cadet Corps (N.C.C.) since 1968, currently holding the rank of Major.

Preface

In the preface, Dr. Tripathi shares his lifelong passion for Indian Epigraphy and the pivotal moment when he decided to focus his doctoral research on the inscriptions of Bengal. Encouraged by his mentor, he sought to explore the social and religious history of the region through its epigraphic materials. He emphasizes the significance of these inscriptions in reconstructing ancient Bengal's social fabric, filling a critical gap in historical studies that often overlook these aspects.

Foreword

The foreword, written by Dr. Sukumar Sengupta, highlights Dr. Tripathi’s dedication to the study of inscriptions and his successful doctoral journey. It underscores his extensive research, which combines published inscriptions and historical texts, presenting a thorough examination of Bengal's early history. The foreword commends the book's readability and its potential to engage a wider audience in the exploration of Bengal's rich cultural legacy.