Journal of Asiatic Society for Social Science Research
Publish open access in this journal An interdisciplinary and double peer reviewed journal that publishes original and reliable research articles, short communications, review articles in Anthropology, Archaeology, Communication Studies (Media Studies), Cultural Studies, Economics, Environmental Studies, Ethnography, Federal Studies, Finance, History, International Relations, Mathematics, Geography, Jurisprudence (Law), Linguistics, Political Science, Psychology, Public Administration, Public Policy, and Sociology.
Asiatic Society for Social Science Research
Development of Consciousness of Peasants in the Bengal Region from 11th century to 19th Century
A country filled with famines must have a lot of Dissent and this paper is searching for those narratives which reflect that interaction of resistance, non corporation, resentment and opposition. To understand it, the paper is analyzing the Folklore named Hitopadesha composed in the 12th century, mangal kavya composed between the 16th to 19th century and ballad songs composed in the 16th century. Paper is also working on the inscriptions of Bengal between 11th and 12th century. The study will focus on voicing out the voice of peasant society about their condition and relationship with the state, Society and social institution. It is also trying to trace the change in the thinking of society and how people in Medieval society reached the state of rebellion. What kind of conditions must have caused the change in thought process and how they articulated their oppression as peasants. How social consciousness developed into a resentment leading to the rebellion which was witnessed in the early half of the 19th century known as Tanka and Tebhaga peasant revolts. DOI: https://doi.org/10.46700/asssr/2025/v7/i1/128
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This article critically investigates the 19th-century abolition of Sati in colonial India, a watershed moment in social reform and British intervention. The ritual, where widows immolate themselves on their husband's funeral pyres, faced opposition from the British East India Company, culminating in the 1829 official prohibition led by Governor-General William Bentinck. While commonly portrayed as a triumph of humanitarian principles over perceived savagery, this paper aims to deconstruct an excerpt from Bentinck's discourse on the suppression of Sati (8th November 1829) to unravel the layers of the official narrative. It challenges the dominant humanitarian discourse by exploring the multifaceted motivations behind this historic decision. The abolition, often framed within the broader mission of 'modernisation' and the white man's burden to civilize is scrutinized for its contested narratives and complex motives. Even amidst critiques of colonialism acknowledging positive impacts on women's lives, the article unveils a nuanced understanding of the abolitionist's true intentions. Utilizing a systematic approach, the analysis encompasses historical context, considerations of authorship and reception, and power dynamics within the colonial source, contributing to a more comprehensive comprehension of the intricate forces shaping this transformative historical episode. DOI: https://doi.org/10.46700/asssr/2025/v7/i1/129
Kalighat painting, emerging in 19th-century Kolkata, offers a vivid artistic portrayal and critique of contemporary society. Originating in the vicinity of the Kalighat temple, these paintings were created by patuas (scroll painters) who adapted traditional scroll painting techniques to single-sheet depictions, catering to the growing urban market. Characterized by bold lines, vibrant colors, and minimal background details, Kalighat paintings evolved from religious themes to a broader social commentary, reflecting the dynamic transformations of colonial Kolkata. These artworks served as a visual medium to critique social customs, hypocrisy, and moral decadence. While initially focusing on Hindu deities and mythological tales, Kalighat painters gradually turned their attention to the emerging Bengali middle class (bhadralok), colonial administrators, and everyday urban life. They depicted satirical narratives of corruption, gender roles, and social pretensions, often portraying moneylenders, profligate babus, and courtesans in exaggerated and ironic forms. The rise of a consumer culture, fueled by colonial modernity, was also reflected in their depictions of changing attire, material aspirations, and interactions between Indians and Europeans. Beyond mere satire, Kalighat paintings encapsulated anxieties surrounding socio-economic changes, the erosion of traditional values, and the impact of Western influence. The hybridization of Indian and Western artistic techniques mirrored these cultural negotiations. Despite being dismissed as folk art in the colonial period, Kalighat paintings have gained recognition as a powerful archive of 19th-century Bengali society, bridging the gap between popular art and political critique. This paper explores how Kalighat painting functioned as both a portrait and a critique of 19th-century Kolkata society. By analyzing its themes, techniques, and socio-political context, it argues that these artworks were not merely decorative but served as visual commentaries on a rapidly transforming urban landscape, offering a grassroots perspective on colonial modernity. DOI: https://doi.org/10.46700/asssr/2025/v7/i1/133
Forgotten Women Freedom Fighters of Bihar
This paper examines the role of forgotten women freedom fighters in Bihar during the Indian independence movement from 1920 to 1947. The historical literature has ignored women's contributions to the Indian freedom struggle; therefore, the present research aims to fill this research gap and try to investigate the feminist view towards the Indian Independence movement. These women contributed to various movements of Indian independence like the Civil Disobedience Movement, Non-Cooperation Movement, and Quit India Movement. The study explores the activism of prominent figures such as Saraswati Devi, Vindhayasini Devi, Tarkeshwari Sinha, Tara rani Shrivastava, Ram Piyari Devi, and other lesser-known local Bihar women leaders who mobilised rural and urban communities. The present paper has utilised archival research and oral histories to highlight how these women defied cultural expectations, organised impactful protests, and played a key role in advancing the movement of the independence struggle at the regional level in various rural areas of present Bihar. The findings emphasize the intersection of gender, caste, and nationalism, revealing the multifaceted roles these women played in both the public and private spheres. This research contributes to the broader understanding of Bihari women's gender dynamics in colonial resistance and the reconfiguration of social identities during the independence movement. DOI: https://doi.org/10.46700/asssr/2025/v7/i1/134
Under the influence of British colonialism, Calcutta in nineteenth century underwent a number of changes. The interaction between the English and Bengali societies had exposed the latter to European tastes and culture. Within this ambit, European fashion was perhaps the most visible form of cultural adoption. With the dissemination of English education in the Bengali middle- and upper-class societies, Bengali men were indoctrinated in British values and tastes, which led them towards a sartorial exploration that was very different from their own. People who returned from Britain after completing their higher studies were often seen in British clothes, which was met with an ambivalent attitude. This paper intends to look at this sartorial exploration to understand till what extent was the European attire a marker for social respect in the Bengali community and how was one, who had donned such an attire, perceived in both the views of English and Indian communities. DOI: https://doi.org/10.46700/asssr/2025/v7/i1/135
Interrogation, Investigation, and Empire
This paper explores W.H. Sleeman’s depiction of Thuggee in 19th-century colonial India and its role in shaping colonial ideas of crime and control. Sleeman’s 1838 work, The Thugs and Phansigars of India: Comprising a History of the Rise and Progress of That Extraordinary Fraternity of Assassins, portrays Thuggee as an ancient and deeply rooted cultural practice in India. His accounts are marked by exaggeration, generalisation, and religious framing, which helped justify colonial intervention. The study examines Sleeman’s investigative methods, reliance on informants, and his omission of socio-economic contexts, which contributed to stereotyping and targeting specific communities. During this period, the colonial government relied on tools like education, religion, and legal systems to tighten its control over the population. Branding certain groups as “criminal tribes” based on caste and religion became a key strategy. Sleeman’s efforts to identify and eliminate Thuggee reflect this larger project of using the legal framework to suppress communities. This paper critically analyses his methods of interrogation and investigation to understand how guilt was established beyond reasonable doubt and how his narrative shaped colonial policies. It argues that Sleeman’s work not only reinforced prejudices but also institutionalised systems of discrimination that helped the colonial regime maintain its dominance. DOI: https://doi.org/10.46700/asssr/2025/v7/i1/137
The Clash of Two Cultures and Commercialization of Traditional Medicine in Colonial and Post-Colonial India
This is a historical overview of the evolution of traditional Indian medical systems in the context of the British colonial period and the postcolonial phase, through the lens of the cultural conflict between indigenous medical systems and Western medicine. It examines colonial practices that marginalized preexisting medical systems but also generated revitalization movements. These consequences include the role of commercialization that changed medicine from a unique brand of healing practice to a commercial commodity in the contemporary market stage. Based on historical evidence from multiple contexts across India, with a focus on Kerala, the paper will inform our understanding of medical pluralism in postcolonial contexts and the complex ways traditional knowledge systems adjust themselves to changing socio-economic and power structures. DOI: https://doi.org/10.46700/asssr/2025/v7/i1/138
The Rise of 'Soft Power' in Global Diplomacy
In an increasingly multipolar world, soft power—the ability to shape preferences through attraction rather than coercion—has emerged as a critical tool in global diplomacy. Coined by Joseph Nye, soft power contrasts with hard power by leveraging culture, political values, and legitimate foreign policies to influence international perceptions. This paper examines the evolving role of soft power, comparing China’s state-driven strategy with traditional Western models, particularly those of the United States and the European Union. Historically, the U.S. dominated soft power through cultural exports like Hollywood and democratic ideals, but 21st-century challenges, including geopolitical shifts and declining trust, have opened space for new actors like China. This study aims to dissect these competing approaches, assessing their philosophies, tools, and global impact. The West has long relied on organic soft power, rooted in civil society and cultural appeal. The American model harnesses Hollywood, Silicon Valley, and public diplomacy initiatives like Fulbright scholarships, while the EU projects normative power through human rights advocacy and institutions like the British Council. Yet, inconsistencies in foreign policy and waning influence in the Global South expose vulnerabilities. In contrast, China’s soft power pivot, accelerated after the 2008 Olympics and amplified under Xi Jinping, emphasizes a state-coordinated narrative of harmony and development. Tools such as Confucius Institutes, the Belt and Road Initiative, and media like CGTN target regions like Africa and Southeast Asia with infrastructure-backed cultural outreach. However, China faces criticism for propaganda and a trust deficit in liberal democracies. This comparative analysis reveals divergent philosophies: Western soft power thrives on openness and grassroots influence, while China’s model is a strategic, top-down endeavor promoting developmental authoritarianism over liberal democracy. Effectiveness varies by region—China gains traction in Asia and Africa, while the West retains cultural dominance in Europe and the Americas. Case studies, such as backlash to Confucius Institutes versus U.S. cultural debates, highlight perception gaps, with survey data like the Soft Power 30 Index offering quantitative insights. Global events, including the Ukraine war and COVID-19 diplomacy, further shape these dynamics. China’s rise signals a fragmented, multipolar soft power landscape, where digital media and AI-driven narratives may localize or polarize influence. This paper argues that while coexistence is possible, authenticity and credibility remain paramount. Soft power is no longer a Western monopoly; its future hinges on adapting to a pluralistic world where competing values vie for legitimacy. DOI: https://doi.org/10.46700/asssr/2025/v7/i1/139
During the early nineteenth century, Punjab’s artisan population was diverse and formed a vital part of the region’s socio-economic structure. Artisans included weavers (julahas), carpenters (tarkhans), blacksmiths (lohars), potters (kumhars), leather workers (chamars), and others engaged in specialized crafts like embroidery, metalwork, and basketry. These artisans worked either in family based production systems or in local workshops contributing extensively to the rural and urban economy. Despite their economic importance, artisan communities occupied lower positions in the traditional caste hierarchy and often faced discrimination and exploitation by the dominant class and higher caste groups. In rural settings, zamindars exerted control over artisans by underpaying them, extracting forced labour and limiting their social mobility. Tensions between artisans and landowning elites frequently led to disputes rooted in economic inequality and caste based oppression. Some groups began to resist this marginalization by organizing themselves and aligning with social reform movements such as the Arya Samaj and Ad Dharm. These efforts aimed to challenge caste based hierarchies and seek greater dignity and rights. In urban centres, while artisans found somewhat autonomy due to the rise of commercial markets, they continued to encounter barriers in education, public participation, and social recognition. The study examines the socio-economic status of artisan communities, focusing on their varied roles in both rural and urban contexts. Despite their economic importance, occupational castes remained socially marginalized. The study briefly highlights early reform movement and marks the emergence of political awareness among marginalized artisan groups. DOI: https://doi.org/10.46700/asssr/2025/v7/i1/141
The Rise of Artificial Intelligence: Impact on Humanity, Warfare, And Societal Evolution examines AI’s transformative role across humanity, warfare, and society. It explores AI’s progression from narrow intelligence (ANI) to human-level AI (HLMI) and superintelligence, emphasizing opportunities and existential risks. The study highlights AI’s military applications, including autonomous systems, surveillance, and logistics, alongside ethical dilemmas like the "black box" problem and lack of global regulation. Case studies, such as the Russia-Ukraine conflict and Israel's Operation Guardian of the Walls provide as examples of AI's strategic value and weaknesses. Speculative risks, including AI misuse, loss of human oversight, and adversarial attacks, are explored in depth. The text also considers future innovations in robotics, synthetic biology, and cyborg technologies, emphasizing the societal and ethical implications. It advocates for international collaboration to regulate AI in warfare, mitigate risks like “Flash Wars,” and ensure meaningful human control in lethal autonomous systems, framing AI as both a revolutionary tool and a significant challenge to humanity. DOI: https://doi.org/10.46700/asssr/2025/v7/i1/142
Electoral Politics and Voting Behaviour In Post-Independence India
India after the year of Independence has adopted the significant idea of parliamentary democracy which emerged to be the best model of political system. In democracy, elections were considered as the substantial milestones which seeks to evolve a formal and informal mode of communication amidst the political actors. Elections as a paramount seeks to decide the battle of power among the elected representatives of the different political parties. At the centre point, voters are provided with an opportunity to evaluate the incumbent government in power. The electoral politics of India marks the importance of elections in two specific ways: One, to identify the factor that will gain political party’s salience in elections. Two, the tenure of election is a period of examination where the organizational strength of the political parties is assessed and tested by the electorates. And the electoral polls happen to indicate the rise of new segments important for social mobility in the political process. Accordingly, the Indian elections tend to redefine the discourse of politics at the national and state level elections. In this realm, the study will map out the transformations seen in the nature of voting behaviour of the voters at the national level elections. DOI: https://doi.org/10.46700/asssr/2025/v7/i1/146
The 1947 Partition of India, which was initially considered a diplomatic solution to religious and political tensions between Hindus and Muslims, quickly escalated into one of the most catastrophic human tragedies of the 20th century. The mass migration that followed not only led to the fragmentation of families but also the complete loss of homes and livelihoods, a trauma that left lasting scars on both nations. Unlike Punjab, the aftermath of the Partition in Bengal is still an ongoing phenomenon. The most susceptible to the catastrophe of Partition were the children and this part of history is less delved into. However, the memories of their tumultuous past are kept alive through storytelling that has been passed from one generation to another within their families. Their stories not only show different sides of the aftermath of Partition but also highlight the remarkable strength these children had in adjusting to life in a new and unfamiliar place. Through oral history methods (that is by collecting accounts of individuals who have witnessed the aftermath of Partition as children or adolescents) this paper seeks to explore how those in their formative years navigated and adapted to this profound historical upheaval while coming to terms with the newly drawn boundaries. This paper also attempts to delve into the multifaceted dimensions of Partition, exploring their complex impact on individuals and communities. DOI: https://doi.org/10.46700/asssr/2025/v7/i1/147
In Indian historiography, regional histories began with our colonial masters, who, for their advantage of exacerbating the differences among Indians, characterised Indian society based on exclusive identities of caste, region, language, ethnicity, etc., and considered it to be impossible to be held together. In response to our colonial masters, nationalist scholars stressed the idea of India as an undifferentiated one. These writings are important, given the time and background in which they were written. However, they only stressed the aspect of unity holding India together, not the plurality of the country, i.e., geographical or cultural. By the 1970s, we see a shift in the study of regions in Indian historiography—the shift from regional history to the history of the regions (Some of the important scholars associated with the approach of the ‘history of regions’ are B.P. Sahu, B.D. Chattopadhyaya and Hermann Kulke.) While the former was concerned with the uniqueness of the region, which was fuelled by regional sentiments and chauvinism, the latter was a dispassionate study of the processes contributing to the development of the regions. The present study is a study of the latter kind—the history of the regions. The region of Jejākabhukti (The region ‘Jejākabhukti’ was named after an eponymous ruler of the Candella dynasty) was held by the Candella rulers during the Early Medieval period (c.900-1300 CE). However, today, scholars have identified the region with modern Bundelkhand. The region ‘Bundelkhand’ does not exist as a political unit like other states in the Indian Union, but there has been a demand by the people of the region based on cultural distinctions. The scholars of the Bundelkhand region consider Jejākabhukti to be the region’s first distinct political unit. But, then, we come to another question—how and when was the region identified as the Bundelkhand region? How has this ‘region’ been looked at or perceived under British rule? And, further, what is the scenario and perception concerning the region today? This study will address these important questions. DOI: https://doi.org/10.46700/asssr/2025/v7/i1/148
This article explores the role of Begum Hazrat Mahal during and after the Revolt of 1857, highlighting her leadership, political agency, and enduring legacy. Although she ruled in the name of her son, Birjis Qadr, the real authority rested with her, as she commanded the loyalty of the talluqdars and zamindars, who fought under her. The widespread phrase “Khalq Khuda ka, Mulk Badshah ka, aur Hukm Rani ka” captures her de facto sovereignty during this turbulent period. Even during the encampment, while fighting the Company government in 1857-58, Begum Hazrat Mahal used other tools of resistance. Her rebuttal to Queen Victoria’s proclamation reveals the contradictions and deceptions within colonial rhetoric. This paper situates the rebuttal within the larger discourse of anti-colonial resistance, examining its intent and impact. Begum Hazrat Mahal’s voice, through her response, foregrounds the agency of a woman. It challenges the patriarchal narratives that often marginalize women’s voices in histories of rebellion. The significance of her reply and the document lies in understanding both the Revolt of 1857 and the early intellectual resistance to British rule. The paper underscores the enduring relevance of Hazrat Mahal’s challenge to colonial authority and the legacy of her defiance in shaping anti-colonial thought. DOI: https://doi.org/10.46700/asssr/2025/v7/i1/149
Horses and Statecraft in Kautilya's Arthasāśtra
The article explores the role of horses as an important military asset in the Mauryan period. It begins with tracing the presence and significance of horses across earlier historical periods such as the Harappan, Vedic and Buddhist era. Drawing on Kautilya’s Arthasāśtra, it examines not only the strategic use of horses in war but also explores the detailed guidelines regarding stable maintenance, animal health care, dietary habits, horse breeding, training and ethical treatment of horses during the Mauryan period. The article by linking ancient political theory with practices of animal domestication, offers a holistic perspective on the significance of horses in ancient Indian warfare. DOI: https://doi.org/10.46700/asssr/2025/v7/i1/150
Understanding the Concept of Spiritualism as a Keynote of Indian Nationalism under the Lens of Sri Aurobindo
Sri Aurobindo, a dynamic visionary of the twentieth century mostly known as a ‘Spiritual Yogi’ and a philosopher has also been the proponent of ‘Spiritual Nationalism’ during his active political career of 1906-1910. His brief tenure of political days remains as one of the most influential in the Indian history of Resistance Movement. The idea of nationalism he propounded is very unique in the Indian history, where he identified the nation as his own ‘Mother.’ Sri Aurobindo drew his inspiration from Rishi Bankim Chandra Chatterjee in regarding the nation as ‘Mother.’ He considered the nation as a ‘living Goddess.’ During his revolutionary days, he wrote a pamphlet ‘Bhawani Mandir’ which was published in the journal ‘Bande Mataram’ under his own editorship. Bhawani Mandir is the blueprint of the concept of spirituality as a bedrock of the Indian Nationalism propagated by Sri Aurobindo. In the study of his ‘Spiritual Nationalism’ we also come across the ‘Nation-soul’ theory in which, India as a nation has been emphasized by Sri Aurobindo as a living being, the mighty ‘Shakti’- the power or consciousness of the evolving spirit. The concept of ‘Shakti’ has been the base of his ‘Spiritual Nationalism’ and all the political measures he undertook in order to free his nation from the clutches of the British rule. The present paper thus aims to highlight the spiritualism as a keynote of the Indian Nationalism as propounded by Sri Aurobindo. DOI: https://doi.org/10.46700/asssr/2025/v7/i1/152
This study examines the English language skills of native Bengali speakers from West Bengal with a focus on the difference between those educated in Bengali-medium institutions and those in English-medium ones. This research aims to assess these groups' English proficiency, consider how schooling language affects grammar and vocabulary usage, and spot any distinctions in group talk. The investigation dives into the intricate connection between educational medium and English language proficiency, approaching it longitudinally to examine generational shifts in terminologies and grammar. The study links institutional language to a better comprehension of English. The study employs an extensive participatory approach to achieve its goals. The participants are native Bengali speakers born in West Bengal, divided into two groups based on previous instruction: Bengali medium and English medium. The methodology is constructed to scrutinize each element, from vocabulary to compliance. The longitudinal study regulates age factors by selecting participants of various ages. The research will use meticulous data gathering and assessment methods. This study provides a comprehensive picture of English skills among native Bengali speakers, intending to shed light on the connection between educational medium and language development. Ultimately, this research may inform educational practices and legislative frameworks to instill native Bengali speakers with an extensive knowledge of English. DOI: https://doi.org/10.46700/asssr/2025/v7/i1/153
This article explores the historical evolution of pottery, tracing its development from the early Neolithic period to modern times. It examines pottery not merely as a utilitarian craft but as a crucial marker of technological innovation, economic systems, social organization, and cultural symbolism. The discussion highlights the invention of the potter’s wheel, the rise of Northern Black Polished Ware (NBPW) in ancient India, and the transition towards metallurgy. It also analyzes how pottery facilitated the growth of trade networks and served significant roles in religious and ritual contexts. Even in the modern era, pottery remains relevant through industrial ceramics and traditional craftsmanship. By investigating pottery’s material, technological, and symbolic dimensions, this article demonstrates that pottery is not just about objects — it is a profound narrative of human creativity, adaptation, and cultural continuity across millennia. DOI: https://doi.org/10.46700/asssr/2025/v7/i1/155
Climate Change Impacts and Its Sustainable Measures of the Indian Aqua-Culture Communities
The impact of climate change on the human population is continuously draw attention and alarming the future climatic disasters. The Aquaculture is confronted with substantial vulnerabilities due to the climate change. It poses a serious threat to life of the marine species, including coral reefs, fisheries, and impacts on the marine ecosystems. Besides that, majority of the population has lost their livelihood. Especially, who are most depends on aquaculture, at the end it is pressurizing the state economies. Moreover, Sustainable Development Goals-(SDGs) number 12-14, and 17 are discussing about the importance of the marine life. The primary objective of the study is, to understand the climate change and its impacts. Another objective of the paper is, to discuss the development of the aqua culture in India. Final aim of the present study is, to examine the climate change impacts on the socio-economic life of the fishermen communities. The methodology of the present study is, descriptive analysis. DOI: https://doi.org/10.46700/asssr/2025/v7/i1/157
Tripura’s religious landscape exemplifies how a small North‑East Indian state forged an enduring “composite culture” from layered waves of tribal traditions, Buddhism and diversified Brahmanism. Drawing on epigraphic evidence (copper‑plate grants, temple inscriptions, coin legends), court chronicles such as Rajmala, and recent ethnographic work among Tipra, Chakma, Reang and Bengali communities, the article traces three intertwined processes: (1) early Sanskritisation under the Manikya dynasty (7th–15th Centuries) that re‑inscribed indigenous deities (e.g., Chaturdasa Devata) into a Brahmanical frame while preserving autonomous tribal priesthoods; (2) recurrent immigration—from Mithila Brahmins to 20th Century Bengali refugees—that re‑seeded Hindu sects but also catalysed ritual hybridity, visible in Kharchi, Ker and Garia festivals where Vedic, Tantric and animist elements co‑habit; and (3) the parallel persistence of Buddhism (Pilak, Devtamura) and the negotiated incorporation of symbols within local cults. The study argues that Tripura’s polity deliberately institutionalised pluralism—as temple endowments, royal patronage and caste‑bending ritual roles (e.g., Tolua sacrificers at Tripura Sundari)—to stabilise frontier rule, producing a religio‑cultural palimpsest rather than a linear “conversion” narrative. By mapping how sacred geography, demographic shifts and statecraft interacted, the article contributes a nuanced case to South Asian debates on syncretism, acculturation and the politics of identity, demonstrating that composite religiosity can persist despite modern ethno‑political fissures. DOI: https://doi.org/10.46700/asssr/2025/v7/i1/159
Across Himachal Pradesh, the current systems for the collection, transportation and processing waste are entangled in chaos. Waste is primarily perceived as an urban problem. But the data and governance gap on rural waste management complicates the scale of this challenge in Himachal Pradesh. With 89.97 per cent population residing in rural areas, the issue of Solid waste management (SWM) is equally challenging in rural areas of H.P. The dumpsites in the state are small and scattered across various settlements, depending upon the population of the area. The Urban Local Bodies do have an established system for collection, transportation and disposal but the traditional governance approach is rendering ineffective in tackling the issue. The unreliable information about the nature of waste, lack of civic participation, inappropriate technology to process waste, unaccountability of private stakeholders running waste to energy plants, increased tourism activities and lack of formal waste management system in rural areas are some of the key issues of SWM in the sub-Himalayan state of India. Even, though Himachal Pradesh has accorded high priority to deal with plastic waste menace by enacting H.P. Non-Biodegradable Garbage Control Act, 1995. But the ill-equipped ULBs and Panchayati Raj Institutions are unable to manage waste effectively. Improper management of solid waste in the North-west Himalayan state poses risk not only to public-health but the entire Himalayan ecosystem, rivers and the community dependent on natural resources. This paper analyzes the state of solid waste management in Himachal Pradesh, India, highlighting the case studies of best practices of decentralised SWM in the state. It also recommends construction of more contexts specific SWM infrastructure, including Material Recovery Facilities, a wider and grass- root level dissemination of information, education and implementation; regarding SWM rules, existing policies and practices to resolve the multitude of SWM challenges. DOI: https://doi.org/10.46700/asssr/2025/v7/i1/160
This paper explores the complexities of causation in history, challenging the traditional, linear narratives often presented in historical scholarship. By engaging with David Graeber and David Wengrow’s The Dawn of Everything, the paper questions the tendency of modern history to impose rigid causal explanations on past events. The analysis extends to philosophical critiques of causality by figures like Nassim Nicholas Taleb and Friedrich Nietzsche, who argue that human reasoning often oversimplifies complex realities. The paper also considers the Mahābhārata as a case study, showcasing how ancient Indian traditions approach causation in a polycentric, multi-layered manner, contrasting with the reductionist views of modern history. Ultimately, the paper argues for integrating the philosophical ‘why’ with the scientific ‘why’ in historical inquiry, acknowledging that while human actions are part of nature, they cannot be fully explained by scientific reasoning alone. In this broader framework, understanding human history requires a nuanced approach that transcends narrow scientific causality while embracing the philosophical and ethical dimensions of human existence. DOI: https://doi.org/10.46700/asssr/2025/v7/i1/161
Rabindranath Tagore, the famous Nobel Laureate literature from India is mainly known for his creation in art, literature and music. However, since, his childhood he had deep curiosity and regard for science. His initiation to astronomy by his father Debendranath Tagore and later on his interest in life-science enabled him to pursue his search for the origin of the Universe. Rabindranath’s deep-rooted belief in integrating human consciousness with nature manifested through his perception of environment in many ways during his days in Santiniketan. His close association with famous physicist and biologist, Jagadish Chandra Bose and later on his five meetings with great mathematician Albert Einstein took him different levels of understanding science. His disagreement with Einstein on the question of existence reality independent of human beings was rooted in Oriental philosophical tradition. It also echoed the basic understanding of quantum mechanics. Tagore was always enthusiastic about popularisation of science and his last seminal work in the realm of science, Visva-Parichay (Introduction to the Universe), was a major addition to that trend. DOI: https://doi.org/10.46700/asssr/2025/v7/i1/166
The Inheritance Rights of Widows in Early Bengal
This paper provides a critical examination of widows’ inheritance rights in early Bengal, with a focus on Jīmūtavāhana’s Sanskrit treatise Dāyabhāga (12th century CE). This paper delves into the historical, legal, and social fabrics that have shaped and reshaped the property rights of widows in early Bengal. It examines distinctions in the inheritance rights of maidens, wives, and widows, as well as the conditions under which widows could claim their husband’s property. Furthermore, this paper examines the Dāyabhāga’s provisions for widows’ inheritance and why Jīmūtavāhana empowered widows in Bengal with property inheritance rights. By closely analyzing Jīmūtavāhana’s normative text, the paper illuminates the intricate and sometimes contradictory nature of women’s rights in early Bengal, offering insights into the broader status of women in early Indian society. Finally, my analysis highlights the changing social, religious, and economic circumstances in early Bengal that acted as catalysts for recognizing widows’ legal property rights. DOI: https://doi.org/10.46700/asssr/2025/v7/i1/168
A Study of the Inter Relationship of Indian Arts through the Lens of Siva Natesa Imagery
The paper explores the deep interconnection among various Indian art forms through the lens of Śiva Natesa (Natarāja) imagery, a powerful symbol of cosmic rhythm, aesthetics, and metaphysical philosophy. Drawing upon classical texts such as the Nāṭyaśāstra, Vāyu Purāṇa, and Liṅgamahāpurāṇa, as well as modern scholarship by Coomaraswamy, Vatsyayan, and Kramrisch, the study examines Śiva’s dual role as Natesa, the cosmic dancer, and Vinādhara, the master of music. By analyzing sculptural representations from the Maitraka, Chola, Gupta, and Bhanja dynasties, the work demonstrates how music, dance, drama, and architecture were conceived not as isolated practices, but as unified expressions of rasa and spiritual transcendence. The article situates Indian aesthetics within a multi-sensory framework of drishya (visual), śravya (aural), and drishya-śravya (integrated) and interprets Śiva's dance as a metaphor for creation, dissolution, and liberation. Ultimately, it argues that Śiva Natesa imagery not only synthesizes diverse artistic streams but also embodies the philosophical and emotional depth of Indic aesthetic experience. DOI: https://doi.org/10.46700/asssr/2025/v7/i1/170
The cultural landscape of temple towns represents a unique intersection of architecture, religion, tradition, and community life, forming a living heritage that continues to shape the socio-cultural fabric of India. This article explores the evolution and characteristics of temple towns, emphasizing their development around major religious centers and sacred geography. Temple towns not only serve as pilgrimage destinations but also act as hubs of economic activity, artistic expression, and cultural preservation. Their spatial organization often reflects cosmological beliefs, with temples situated at the core and civic life radiating around them. The article delves into the architectural typologies, urban morphology, and symbolic elements that define these spaces. Furthermore, it highlights the dynamic relationship between the tangible elements such as temples, water tanks, and streets and the intangible aspects, including rituals, festivals, and oral traditions. Case studies of notable temple towns like Varanasi, Madurai, and Puri are examined to illustrate how these centers maintain a continuous cultural narrative through centuries of socio-political change. The article also addresses the challenges of modern development pressures, tourism, and urbanization that threaten the integrity of these landscapes. It argues for a balanced approach that integrates heritage conservation with sustainable development. Ultimately, the article underscores the significance of temple towns as cultural landscapes that embody the spiritual, historical, and communal identity of Indian civilization. DOI: https://doi.org/10.46700/asssr/2025/v7/i1/172
When Pune emerged as a center of modern education under colonial rule, the city witnessed the foundation of several educational institutions established by both colonial authorities and native leaders. The values they sought to nurture, however, differed significantly. While colonial institutions aimed to instill colonial values, native institutions endeavored to provide national education. As these attempts by natives were curtailed by the colonial government, it is essential to examine the methods appropriated by the institutions that managed to sustain themselves. This study explores how a native institution like New Poona College adapted its educational approaches to align with both national aspirations and colonial constraints, reflecting the dynamic interplay between educational and political contexts in Pune. It traces the academic background of the Pune city in 18th century and examines an account of New Poona College through various phases of the freedom struggle, presenting it as a case of realpolitik in the context of the Independence movement. DOI: https://doi.org/10.46700/asssr/2025/v7/i1/174
Mythological stories in Brāhṃanical religious literature are not merely transcendental allegory but are often lodged with deeper ecclesiastical, political and sectarian assertions. The dynamic rivalry among the sects most notably Śaivism, Vaiṣṇavism and Śāktism, and artistic tradition reflecting worldview where the nature and the sanctified are impeccably interlaced. Here this paper focuses on their legends or iconology, artistic expression or iconography, and arcane symbolism. Nsiṃha, a composite half lion – human deity , considered as fourth incarnation or Avatāra of lord Viṣṇu. He is an personification of animal bestiality and human intelligence. Śarva another composite figure of lion-bird-human , vanquishes Nṛsiṃha to asseverate lord Śiva’s supremacy. Mahā-Pratyāṅgirā , the lion headed goddess from Tantric Traditions, Her iconography bolster–up her role as a destroyer of malign forces and protector of secret insight. Composite figure here, referring to the mythological, religious and artistic representation of some features of animals and human when combined together to form one sole often holding symbolic and religious meaning. The paper also focusses on the important fact that how mythological transformations subtly showcases how religious power struggles not only confined in theological debates and temple patronage but as well in woven into the structures of mythic lore.Stating their provenance with the help of literary sources such as Atharva Veda, Mārkaṇdeya Purāṇa, Śiva Purāṇa, Brahṃāṇḍa Purāṇa, Devī bhāgavata Purāṇa, Śākta Upapurāṇas, Two Orissan leaf manuscripts, and Āgamas such as Kamika Āgamas, Mālinī-Vijaya Tantra, inscriptions and etc. DOI: https://doi.org/10.46700/asssr/2025/v7/i1/176
This paper explores how early British travel writing in India, particularly in the form of travelogues, contributed to the consolidation of colonial power through seemingly neutral acts of observation and documentation. Focusing on Captain Thomas Hardwicke’s 1796 journey to Sirinagar, Uttarakhand—published in Volume 6 of Asiatic Researches—the study examines how descriptions of landscape, flora, fauna, and Indigenous communities were deployed to construct a narrative of India as exotic, sublime, and uncivilized. This rhetoric of aesthetic wonder and scientific curiosity, while appearing benign, functioned as a tool of colonial control, enabling what may retrospectively be understood as "cartographies of control." The early British administrators, often labelled as ‘Indologists,’ demonstrated an eagerness to learn Indian languages, religions, and customs. Their intellectual pursuits, including the creation of antiquarian collections and detailed travelogues, were framed as disinterested scholarship. However, drawing on Bernard Cohn’s critique of colonial knowledge production, this paper argues that these efforts were far from neutral. Instead, they laid the epistemological groundwork for the colonial state, shaping the ideological apparatus that would support imperial governance well into the twentieth century. Rather than engaging broadly with the entire field of colonial knowledge production, this paper focuses specifically on the travelogue as a literary genre. It argues that beneath its descriptive prose lies a subtle but potent framework of authority, classification, and control. Through close reading of Hardwicke’s account, the paper demonstrates how the natural world and its inhabitants were rendered as both objects of fascination and subjects of imperial order. Ultimately, the study highlights how travel writing served not merely as a record of exploration, but as a quiet yet powerful agent in the imperial project. DOI: https://doi.org/10.46700/asssr/2025/v7/i1/177
Perceptions of Urbanity and Town Life in Medieval and Early Modern India
In the bustling streets of medieval North India, where trade, faith, and everyday life intertwined, the true essence of urbanity was shaped not by emperors but by ordinary people. Ardhakathanak (1641), the autobiographical account of Banarsidas, a Jain merchant, offers an intimate glimpse into this vibrant world. Written in a candid and reflective voice, the text offers rare insights into how towns such as Jaunpur, Agra, Banaras, and Allahabad were inhabited, imagined, and negotiated by non-elite actors. Moving beyond official chronicles and imperial records, Ardhakathanak presents a dynamic view of cities as lived spaces shaped by trade, mobility, religious diversity, ethical concerns, and the everyday presence of the Mughal state. Through Banarsidas’s experiences, we gain access to a world in motion—where markets flourish, identities are tested, and urban life is both vibrant and fragile. This paper argues that Ardhakathanak allows us to rethink the nature of urbanity and urbanization in Mughal India from below, recovering a vernacular, deeply personal perspective on city life often absent in traditional historical narratives. DOI: https://doi.org/10.46700/asssr/2025/v7/i1/181
Revolutionary Activism in undivided Northern Bengal
In course of the British rule in India especially from the time of 1900s, the revolutionary struggle played a vital role in gaining freedom from the British. In Bengal, organisations such as Calcutta Anushilan Samiti, Atmannati Samiti and Chhattra Bhandar Mess that came in existence prior to the partition gave head start to the revolutionary work in Bengal and the country. Cases such as Alipore Case, Howrah case, Khulna Jessore case, Dacca Conspiracy case etc. were some of the precedent revolutionary activities that were carried on as the call against 1905-partition. And this continued throughout swadeshi movement and then on to the non-cooperation and civil disobedience movement despite the later following the method of ‘non-violence’. The growing sense of nationalism led people across the line including students join hands with voluntary groups to carry out revolutionary activism throughout Bengal during this phase. The theme of the topic builds on this particular aspect and tries to project the happenings in particular to undivided northern Bengal that mostly goes unchecked. Revolutionary work has been thoroughly worked out by historians and scholars, however, mostly are related to the happenings in Calcutta or Dacca or Chittagong. So, the particular paper presents on the happenings concerning northern Bengal and to form an overall picture of spread and impact of revolutionary work in the marked region. DOI: https://doi.org/10.46700/asssr/2025/v7/i1/182
Eco-Discharge Printing with Acid Cellulase Enzyme on Natural Dyed Cotton
The global fashion industry is under increasing scrutiny for its environmental footprint, particularly due to the toxic chemicals and waste generated during textile processing. Discharge printing, widely employed for intricate textile designs, often involves hazardous chemicals like formaldehyde sulfoxylate, which pose significant environmental and health risks. The study objective is to develop an environmentally friendly enzyme discharge printing process and assess its environmental impact that aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals. Specifically, the study explores the use of acid cellulase enzymes for discharge printing on natural dyed fabrics, minimizing harmful chemical use while maintaining design quality and aesthetic appeal. The methodology integrates experimental trials of enzyme formulations varying pH, time, temperature, and enzyme concentration on natural dyed cotton fabric. Technical evaluation of this enzyme-assisted discharge printing method was done by spectrophotometer analysis, tensile strength testing, and Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) in wastewater, demonstrating its effectiveness in achieving desired aesthetic effects, preserving fabric integrity, and supporting eco-friendly textile production compared to conventional discharge printing methods. Results indicate that enzyme-assisted processes achieve effective colour removal with a tone-on-tone effect on natural dyes, except indigo, while reducing chemical usage, demonstrating compatibility with natural dyes and enhanced biodegradability. This approach not only reduces environmental hazards but also supports circular fashion practices by promoting safer, sustainable alternatives. The study concludes that enzyme discharge printing has the potential to revolutionize sustainable textile production, offering a viable pathway for businesses to adopt commerce with conscience. It advocates for the integration of such innovations into fashion supply chains, fostering a balance between profitability and environmental stewardship. DOI: https://doi.org/10.46700/asssr/2025/v7/i1/183
Power, Chaos & New Age of Global Diplomacy
It is truly global in its consequences: such an attack by Russia. Radical changes after the full-scale invasion of Ukraine by Russia in February 2022 opened huge opportunities to close many perception gaps that existed between the EU and Ukraine after the accession of Crimea, but it also creates challenges for EU Diplomacy. This article suggests that significant shifts in attitudes, context, and policy have taken place in response to the major incidents. In this research exercise, a modest attempt is made to discuss the basis of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, the perspective of studying an aspect of Europe's development: growth in EU public diplomacy. The geostrategic impacts and implications of this conflict for Europe prove that the EU's public diplomacy must be seriously rethought and developed. DOI: https://doi.org/10.46700/asssr/2025/v7/i1/184
This paper explores the dynamic interplay between cultural heritage and tourism, with a particular focus on India as a civilizational cradle of diverse tangible and intangible heritage forms. Tracing the historical foundations of heritage travel in India—from Vedic-era pilgrimages to modern global tourism—the study highlights the multifaceted value of cultural heritage as a medium of identity, continuity, and economic growth. It examines the evolution of heritage management practices, government-led initiatives, and technological interventions such as the use of digital platforms and 3D documentation. Drawing on global best practices from countries like Italy, Japan, and France, the paper underscores the need for sustainable, community-led, and inclusive models of heritage tourism. It also addresses persistent challenges such as overtourism, funding deficits, policy fragmentation, and threats to intangible heritage. Looking forward, the study advocates for a future built on digital innovation, environmental responsibility, youth engagement, and cross-sector partnerships. By balancing conservation with development, and tradition with innovation, India can position itself as a global leader in heritage-led sustainable tourism. The paper contributes to the ongoing discourse on heritage as a living and transformative resource in an increasingly interconnected world. DOI: https://doi.org/10.46700/asssr/2025/v7/i1/185
Elimination of Violence Against Women with Disabilities
The purpose of writing this article is to present the violence and erasure that occurs against women with disabilities as expressed in society. As a result of increasing social awareness from the middle of the 20th century, the voices for rights for women, children, farmers, minority communities and disabled people started getting louder. On the one hand, physical, economic, social and cultural changes are gradually taking place in developed and developing societies. On the other hand, increasing epidemics and discriminatory politics are pushing women, children, farmers, minority communities and disabled people to the margins in the same societies. Still, if there was any class that was at the most disadvantage, it was the disabled community, which was always kept at the lowest level despite the increasing social awareness in society. Not only did the issue of disability remain at the lowest level, but this class also remained significantly behind in the modern era, and it is constantly trying to improve its position on the ladder of development. Any disabled person must face many obstacles in continuing his life and fighting for equality in society. Of course, men and women with disabilities are discriminated against because of their disabilities. Still, women with disabilities face double discrimination due to the combined discrimination and violence based on gender and disability. They are pushed to the lowest level of mainstream society and are more likely to be institutionalized than others. Hence, this article will discuss in detail issues relating to the elimination of violence against women with disabilities by elaborating on the various types of violence faced by these women, such as discriminatory access to housing, health, vocational training, education, employment, and gender-based exploitation., etc. DOI: https://doi.org/10.46700/asssr/2025/v7/i1/187
Given the often deep-rooted connection between tribes and nature, they are regarded as harbingers of environmental conservation in today's day and age. While this is true for the most part, many of their contemporary practices are misaligned with the values they behold or beheld historically. The Mishmi, descendants of a mongoloid stock occupying the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh, have recently protested the creation of the Dibang Tiger Reserve which has brought tribal paradox to the forefront. This paper examines Mishmi’s nature resource consumption and conservation from the late 19th century up to contemporary times and attempts to highlight the other side of the story. The sources used are colonial travelogues, articles, government websites and IUCN lists with qualitative assessment done in most cases. Besides, vlogs are also used to understand contemporary conditions in the absence of field visits. The findings of this paper raise the question if tribes like Mishmi actually exploit nature or is it our “civilised” environmental ethics that compel us to make such remarks. It also reveals the urgency for a community-led conservation strategy which harnesses tribal myths and hunting taboos—an approach which can only be successful if diversification and stability in means of income are introduced. DOI: https://doi.org/10.46700/asssr/2025/v7/i1/158
An Iconographical and Philosophical Study of Sculptures in Bhagalpur Museum
Art and iconography have been an integral part of India from ancient times to till date. Anga and Magadha was the richest region for art and architecture. Sculptures reflecting art and iconography in Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain are sufficient in their representation. This paper attempts to describe sculptures displayed in the Bhagalpur museum and its interpretation of forms. The origin of these sculptures can be traced back to early Vedic literature. According to the textual references, deities during Kuṣāṇa to Pālā era and their cult became precisely developed. After the presentation of textual sources about the elaboration of these series following their common order in the depicted series. We are presenting the main philosophical and Iconographical aspects of the sculptures following their common order in the depicted series. This museum shows a variety of sculptures with specific materials, postures, forms, and dimensions. Other than sculptures there is a separate gallery for paintings. We emphasize the need to create a documentation platform, which enables convergence of information between museum collections with the help of historical and iconographical insights. The study is on the selected sculptures in the Bhagalpur Museum. Bhagalpur Museum exhibits anthropomorphic and theomorphic iconography by way of human forms, and animal forms with objects and symbols respectively. Certain sculptures are specially designed for meditative purposes only. Each form has a physical description and a spiritual interpretation. In building spiritual iconography artist incorporates different postures, gestures, directions, forms, and traits. It is imperative to have a visualization of sculptures personally by visiting the Bhagalpur Museum. This paper attempts to bring out the descriptive and interpretative aspects of sculptures displayed in the Bhagalpur Museum. The information available through these diverse sometimes validates the data and sometimes questions it. The paper explores the merit of comprehensive digitization for museum collections. It also focused on the need to create a platform within a museum that encourages scholarly participation between diverse disciplines. DOI: https://doi.org/10.46700/asssr/2025/v7/i1/165