The State in Ancient India: A Study in the Structure and Practical Working of Political Institutions in North India in Ancient Times c21.65

c21.65

The Hindu administrative system which flourished until the 12th or 13th century A.D., and which left its influence behind to last for many generations was almost entirely free from foreign influence in historical times. The recent discoveries made by the Archæological Department at Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa reveal a pre-Âryan culture which bears a striking resemblance to that of Anon, Sura, Babylon and Crete, but the fact of borrowing on one side or the other has yet to be established. No administrative interaction of any kind is perceptible. It is impossible to form an idea of the pre-Âryan institutions of North India. It is probable that such as existed before the Âryan immigration were not obliterated but assimilated into the Âryan system. Indeed, on a *priori* grounds it may be argued that the older institutions, being the natural growth of climatic conditions and economic environment, would gradually grip the Âryans. As we have seen, there is an indication in Vedic