Concept of Environment in Ancient Art and Architecture

The environment originated right from the dawn of civilization with the fall of sun's rays over the earth.

It is a critical study of the enviro nmental elements depicted in ancient art and architecture of the monuments. India's unique gift to the world are the ancient monuments representing as they do a pacan to life to look to joy perfect in execution and sublime in expression.

It aims at focussing light on the importance of elements of environment that have been depicted here in art and architecture right from prehistoric to modern period.

The ancient texts, the archaeological excavations, inscriptions, coins, paintings, do corborate to the depiction of elements of environment.

Interestingly is the fact that the various dynasties of the ancient period were aware and more cautious about the significance of environment for the sustenance of human life, who depicted the elements of environment in ancient art and architecture to impart teachings and propagate importance of its protection to the common mass.

The environment being regarded as the most essential component potable for the sustenances of eco system an important impact upon the social ecology.

This monograph is an illustrative account of depiction of elements and awareness of environment in ancient art and architecture.

Dr. Ajai Pal Singh was born in 1933 in the village Paharipur, Jankhat, District Farrukhabad, U.P. He completed his high school and Intermediate from D.N. College Tirwa Farrukhabad, He graduated in Science from Allahabad University. He took his M.A. Degree in Ancient History from Vikram University, Ujjain and completed his post graduate diploma in Museology from Bhopal University.

Bhopal. He was awarded Ph.D degree from Bhopal University.

Besides the books "Conservation and Museum Techniques" "Fort and Forti fication of India" "Defensive art of India" "Monuments of Orchha" and "Monuments of Mandu" Dr. Singh has contributed a good number of research papers to various reputed journals.

India is the cosmopolition centre of different religion. The ancient and Icternal spirit sprang up here with a perfect amalgam of abundance continuity and excellence in ever thousands monuments from prehistoric period to mughals maratha period depicting the elements of environment in ancient art and architecture generating awareness of environment.

This monograph is a select study of monuments displaying elements environment projected through their art and architecture.

In the preparation of this book many hands have offered invaluable contribution and it will be unfair on may part to remain silent about those who have contributed in giving a shape of a book.

Shri Shivpal Singh may eldest son carried out the photography of the monuments and other objects depicting the elements of environment and the layout was prepared by Dr. Harpal Singh my younger son.

I am extremely thankful to Dr. Rahman Ali Prof. in Ancient Indian History, Culture and Archaeology, Vikram University, Ujjain, who was always very helpful to me in the preparation of this book.

I am also thankful to Dr. Ahmad Ali and Shri Suresh Srivastava, Directorate of Archaeology and Museums Bhopal for providing references and valuable help in various ways.

Shri Ajeet Kumar Srivastava and Shri Kapil Sexena Asstt Directors of N.V.D.A., Bhopal encouraged me to complete this book I thank them.

I am deeply indebted to Mr. Naresh Narad, Additional Secretary, Govt. of India, who always encouraged me to write this monograph I express my gratitude.

Book's Contents and Sample Pages