Before Kṛṣṇa: Religious Diversity in Ancient Mathura - Hardcover

by Kanika Kishore Saxena (Author)

Mathura is most famous for its association with Vasudeva-Krsna, an important deity of the Hindu pantheon. In ancient times, however, this site contributed towards the production of exquisite pieces of sculpture, inscriptions, and terracottas associated with Buddhism, Jainism, and the Naga and Yaksa traditions as well. The literature and art inspired by these traditions make the religious landscape of Mathura a fascinating subject of study. Before Krsna is one such work that entails an epigraphic analysis of Mathura from the early historical till the early medieval period. It examines the content of inscriptions from Mathura, correlates it with other archaeological and literary sources, and assesses the available data in the context of the social, political, and economic processes underway in the Indian subcontinent at that time. This monograph not only provides the reader a taste of Mathura's religious diversity and plurality over time, but is also relevant for understanding the
history of specific religious traditions and the threads of interaction between them.

Author Biography

Kanika Kishore Saxena, Assistant Professor, Miranda House

Kanika Kishore Saxena, has done her BA and MA (first position in Delhi University) from LSR college, and has been awarded President's Gold Medal for being the best student in Delhi University for excellence in academics, conduct, character, co-curricular and social services. Her PhD is also from
Delhi University. She has been working as Assistant Professor of History and has taught in colleges like LSR and Miranda House. She is currently employed in Miranda House.