Kings Gods and People: Essays on the Cultural History of Medieval Andhradesa

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 generalisations 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. Contents: Section I: Folklore and Psychohistory: Psychohistorical Approach to Popular Child Rearing Practices in Andhra/ Beliefs, Attitudes and Values in Medieval Andhra: Gleanings through Epigraphs/ Riddles and Proverbs as Sources of the Social History of Andhradesa/ Psychohistorical Analysis of Curses and Folklore Traditions of Medieval Andhradesa/ Psychoanalytical and Iconographical Perceptions of Mother and Child, Section II: Tantrism-Tantra in Art, Architecture and Culture: Iconography of the Tantric Goddess Chinnamasta and Human Sacrifices/ Tantric Temples of Sakti Deities in Modern Times/ Fresh Light on Certain Obscure Tantric Practices in Daily Life/ Section III: Art and Iconography: Panchanana Ganesa From British Museum: An Iconographical Study/ An Image of Adi Varaha in the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford/ Some Aspects of Inscribed Jaina Images, Section IV: Royalty, Women and Society : Diving Kings and the Concept of Kingship in Medieval South India/ Kings, Temples and Famines in Medieval Andhra: Some Historical Insights/ Alcoholic Drinks in Medieval Andhra: Gleanings Through Literature/ Historical Insights into Vegetation and Wild Life: Reconstruction Through inscriptions and Literature (17th & 18th Centuries A D).