History of Technology in India, Vol. I: From Antiquity to c. 1200 A.D. v1.c30.s3.44

v1.c30.s3.44

Ironically it is this period which has received little attention from archaeologists. The surveys carried out by Cunningham in the last century supply whatever reliable information that we have. Occasional excavations at a number of places, which were more a matter of unavoidable effort as the excavators wanted to reach lower levels, supply additional information which at best is sketchy. The paucity of firm data has obscured the picture. To add to the confusion is the fact that many of the forts like Citorgarh or Kalanjar originally erected in the period under reference have been reused, renovated, remodelled, and alterations carried out by the succeeding Islamic rulers of the post-12th century period. This has in most cases obliterated the original fortifications, except perhaps the locations and the general plan, thereby limiting our ability to isolate and understand the art of fortification of the pre-11th century period. However, the picture is not as bleak once we turn to the Deccan and South India. Here the earlier traditions seem to continue, with a difference whereas north Indian townships continue to have earthen ramparts around them, those in the former area have started using stone.