Ancient India: Living Traditions
Resource type
Book
Creator (person)
Jansari, Sushma
Muthukumaran, Sureshkumar
Date published
2025
Abstract
Take a deeper look into the history, art and faith of India with the Ancient India: living tradition book – the beautifully illustrated official hardback from the British Museum’s major exhibition. This accessible and engaging volume offers a fresh perspective on Jainism, Buddhism and Hinduism, and how these living traditions shaped everyday life and creativity over two thousand years ago.
Through stunning imagery and expert storytelling, the book explores how sacred art evolved between 200 BCE and 600 CE – from early nature spirits to some of the first depictions of the Buddha, Jain teachers (jinas), and Hindu deities. You'll learn how these devotional images came to include familiar symbols, animal companions and intricate details still seen in religious art today.
It also shows how spiritual ideas and artistic traditions spread far beyond India, leaving a lasting influence across Central, East and Southeast Asia through sculpture, temple design and iconography.
Whether you're interested in religion, art or ancient history, the Ancient India: living traditions hardback book makes a thoughtful gift or a valuable addition to your own collection.
Publisher
British Museum Press
Place of publication
London