The Archaeoastronomy of a Few Megalithic Sites of Jharkhand

The Archaeoastronomy of a few megalithic sites in Jharkhand challenges the notion that megaliths are solely sepulchral monuments, illustrating that they also served as temples to the ubiquitous Mother Goddesses of the fertility cult. It reveals that a few of the megalithic sites in the eastern Indian state of Jharkhand align with fundamental mathematical principles and observational astronomy. Apart from establishing complex burials within these complexes and revering them as temples, the prehistoric astronomer-priests intended these megaliths as calendars for the community, used to determine the specific dates on which their fertility rites were to be conducted. Lavishly illustrated and cogently written, the book elucidates megaliths and contends that their presence across the country, from Kashmir to Kerala and from Manipur to Gujarat, is a testimony to India’s tribal prehistory. It showcases the archaeoastronomical megalithic temples of Jharkhand, indicating that the tribes were cognisant of mathematics and horizon astronomy. This much-needed volume aims to initiate a lively debate and persuade people to learn more about megaliths and their makers, making it essential reading for those seeking to explore aspects of prehistoric India.