The Early History of the Deccan (Parts I–XI) v1.c7.s7.1

v1.c7.s7.1

THE cultural history of the period is no better documented than its political history. In fact there is even less evidence here, for when we come to the study of economic and social conditions even the flickering and uncertain light of the Purāṇic texts is lacking. Inscriptions, coins, and monuments are so few and far between that they hardly serve to furnish any details regarding the various aspects of the life of the people. Where these material sources fail us, we have to deduce our information from abstract historical evidence, such as the advent of the Āryans into the Deccan, contact with Śakas, Yavanas, and Pahlavas, and commercial intercourse with Egypt and Rome.