Ever wondered what life was like in India’s ancient and medieval cities? How did they stack up against the grand cities of the world? Indian Cities: Ancient and Medieval by Raghavan Srinivasan isn’t just another history book—it’s a captivating journey through time. If you love uncovering lost worlds, fascinating urban stories, and the legacies left behind, this book is right up your alley.
From the Indus Valley Civilization to medieval times, this book explores the rise and fall of Indian cities—their architecture, economy, culture, and political significance. Did you know that by 1500 CE, Hampi was the second-largest city in the world, after Beijing? Or that Akbar’s empire had a higher urban population than all of Europe combined? Srinivasan uncovers these jaw-dropping facts in a way that makes history feel alive. He doesn’t just pile on information—he connects the dots, offering comparisons that help you truly understand how these cities flourished.
Forget about dull history textbooks! Srinivasan’s writing is crisp, engaging, and incredibly easy to follow. He makes you feel like you’re walking through the streets of these ancient cities yourself. The book includes fact-check modules, quick revision takeaways, and descriptions from contemporary writers of the time—ensuring that you’re not just reading but actively engaging with the past.
This book is about more than just city planning and old buildings—it’s about the people, cultures, and legacies that shaped India’s urban past. It also sheds light on how our colonial education system has sidelined much of this history. The author even dives into fascinating controversies—like whether the Harappans knew about horses or used iron—giving the book an investigative feel that keeps you hooked.
At just 180 pages, this book delivers a knowledge-packed, enjoyable experience without overwhelming you, making history accessible and engaging. Interactive elements like fact-check modules and revision takeaways keep the learning process dynamic, while Srinivasan’s balanced storytelling ensures well-researched history is presented without over-romanticizing or oversimplifying it.
The book does a fantastic job covering India's ancient and medieval cities, but a deeper dive into Northeast India’s urban history would have added more depth. Additionally, while the writing is accessible, some technical bits may require a basic understanding of Indian history to fully appreciate the nuances.
Reading this book made me realize how much of India’s history remains hidden from mainstream education. It’s frustrating to see such a rich urban past take a backseat. But books like this reignite the curiosity to rediscover these lost cities and the stories they hold.
I absolutely loved this book! It’s rare to find a history book that’s both deeply informative and thoroughly enjoyable. Srinivasan’s enthusiasm for the subject is infectious. If you love history, urban planning, or just enjoy learning about how civilizations functioned, this is a must-read.
Indian Cities: Ancient and Medieval is a brilliantly researched book that breathes life into India’s urban past. While it could have expanded on some regions, its strengths far outweigh its minor drawbacks. If you’re looking for a book that makes history exciting and relevant, this is it. Highly recommended!
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