Publisher's Synopsis
It is a riveting investigation into the historical and cultural tapestry of the Indian subcontinent, tracking the evolution of its nomenclature from the ancient past to the current age. "From Bharat to India: Naming Chronicles" is the title of the book. This literary voyage develops like a bright mosaic, weaving together the threads of time to reveal the rich layers of identity that are encompassed in the shift from 'Bharat' to 'India.' The author uses rigorous research and a strong eye for detail to create this journey.
The very title of the book, "From Bharat to India," is a gateway to learning the tremendous importance that lies beneath the names that have been given upon this diverse and dynamic land. A nuanced view on the cultural, social, and political forces that have molded the nomenclature of the region is provided to readers by the chronicles that are embedded throughout the pages. These chronicles unravel the semantic metamorphosis.
In the beginning of the story, there is an investigation into the ancient origins, specifically focusing on the Sanskrit word "Bharat" and the cultural meanings that it has. As the reader progresses through the epochs, they come across the historical epochs that had an impact on the nomenclature. These epochs range from the Vedic period to the Mauryan and Gupta empires, each of which left an indelible mark on the identity of the area.
Following that, the work masterfully navigates through the medieval era, which was characterized by a convergence of cultures, languages, and names as a result of the establishment of Islamic authorities. The naming narrative is further complicated by the Mughal era, which was characterized by a syncretic blend of Persian and indigenous influences. A testament to the resiliency and adaptability of the Indian cultural fabric is the delicate dance that takes place between the natives and the outsiders, which is represented in the names.
The creation of 'India' as a colonial construct occurs throughout the colonial period, which marks a significant turning point. An examination of the imposition of Western nomenclature and the influence that it has had on the collective identity of the subcontinent is presented in the story. As the book progresses through the phase of nation-building that follows independence, it examines the decisions that were taken about the adoption of the term "India" as the official name, as well as the symbolic resonance that it bears.
