Relating Hastinapur with the kuru capital of mahabharat era

Abstract

The Mahabharata, one of the most celebrated epics of ancient India, is a vital source of cultural, historical, and geographical insights. Among the prominent locations mentioned in the epic, Hastinapur stands out as the illustrious Kuru capital, representing the socio-political and urban development of its time. This thesis, titled "Relating Hastinapur with the Kuru Capital of Mahabharat Era," endeavors to establish a connection between the epic's descriptions and the historical and geographical evidence of present-day Hastinapur in Uttar Pradesh. The study employs a multidisciplinary approach, integrating literary analysis, archaeological research, and geographical mapping. It begins by examining descriptions from the Mahabharata and other ancient texts, identifying urban characteristics, societal structures, and cultural elements associated with Hastinapur. These descriptions are systematically compared with archaeological findings, such as Painted Grey Ware (PGW) pottery, structural remains, and epigraphic evidence discovered in modern-day Hastinapur. The research aims to evaluate how these tangible elements corroborate the narrative elements described in the epic. Additionally, the thesis investigates geographical and environmental conditions, analyzing how the natural setting of present-day Hastinapur aligns with the descriptions of the epic city. River systems, topography, and settlement patterns play a crucial role in reinforcing the plausibility of this identification. The study also incorporates intangible heritage, exploring oral traditions, festivals, and cultural practices that have preserved the memory of Hastinapur as a sacred and historical site over centuries. Through this comprehensive analysis, the research seeks to bridge the gap between mythology and history, highlighting Hastinapur's significance as more than a symbolic representation but as a plausible historical urban center. By combining evidence from various disciplines, the thesis argues for the integration of epic narratives into historical research, underscoring their potential to inform our understanding of ancient civilizations. This work contributes to the broader discourse on India's heritage, offering new perspectives on interpreting and preserving the intersection of tangible and intangible cultural legacies.