Overview

First published in 2013, Maritime Heritage of Gujarat, Kathiawad and Kutch spans over four thousand years, uncovering the region’s maritime traditions dating back to the Indus Valley Civilization. Marine archaeological excavations have revealed artifacts that highlight Gujarat’s ancient trade links with Egypt, Mesopotamia, Bahrain, and others. The state’s maritime legacy is reflected not only in archaeological findings but in literature, sculptures, memorial stones (palayas), boat-building traditions, seamen’s manuals (pothis), daily accounts (roznamas), living practices, customs, trade accounts, and others. Situated on India’s northwestern coast, Gujarat is the country’s principal maritime state, with a strategic 1600 km coastline—one-third of India’s total—offering proximity to the Middle East, Africa, Europe, and Pakistan. Today, the Gulf of Kutch and Gulf of Khambhat are emerging as industrial and energy hubs for the state and the nation. This book is ideal for maritime historians, cultural scholars, and readers interested in Gujarat’s rich coastal heritage.

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9781041223856

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Mary R. Edward The Maritime History Society (MHS), an academic initiative of the Western Naval Command of the Indian Navy was established on 12 May 1978 by the late Vice Admiral MP Awati with a vision to promote the study of India’s maritime history. MHS has grown into a leading research organisation dedicated to exploring the country’s rich maritime heritage and naval legacy. As part of its academic mission, MHS undertakes a wide range of activities including publication of scholarly books, hosting seminars, lectures, workshops and curating maritime-themed museums, exhibitions and heritage projects including the National Maritime Heritage Complex at Lothal, Gujarat. The Society also maintains a well- curated gallery with over 2,000 artefacts, a reference library and digital presence featuring blogs and display of artefacts. Its collaboration with Talyor and Francis under the Routledge Revival series further extends its educational outreach. We hope that these publications will inspire a new generation of researchers and scholars, contributing to a deeper understanding of India’s rich maritime past and naval legacy.

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