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A Significant feature of this volume is the critical analysis of archaeological and historical sources relating to the specific issues of cultural history with special reference to Andhra region.
Besides the historical sources, the oral traditions and folkloristic materials provide substantial materials for the better understanding of the culture of the people on which certain historical generalizations can be made. Further, it allows for a range of historical interpretations especially regarding the legitimization of kingship and the relationship between royalty, rituals and religion.
This volume deals with the different aspects of the cultural history and some of the topics included have long been the subject of interest, debate and importance. It throws a fresh light on the tantric goddesses, the temples constructed on the essentials of tantrism and tantric practices in every day life.
The religious meanings and symbolism of the iconographical forms of Ganesa and Vishnu in the forms of panchanana Ganesa and Adivaraha are analysed. The book speaks of the seamy side of the socio-cultural life of the people of medieval Andhra, throwing a new light on robbery and alcoholism, which are studies in detail for the first time.
About the Author:
Dr. Myneni Krishna Kumari obtained her Ph.D and D.Litt degrees in History and Archaeology from Andhra University in 1978 and 1999 respectively. She received many honours and distinctions in her academic career. She has been honoured with "The Best Researcher Award" by the Andhra University in 1992 and "The Best Teacher Award" by the Andhra Pradesh State Government in 2001. She has received "The Young Scientist Award" in the Humanities and Social Sciences from the U.G.C., Delhi in 1984-85. Presently she is working as a Professor in the Department of History and Archaeology, Andhra University, Visakhapatnam She has served the University in various capacities asHead of the Department, Chairperson P.G. Board of Studies and member of the Executive Council of the Andhra University. She is a "Visiting Professor" of Armstrong Atlantic State University, Savannah (US). She has participated in more than 100 seminars, conferences and international workshops and presented several papers. She is a prolific writer,a good researcher, has authored eight books and edited two volumes related to the history the culture of the Andhras.
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