Early Historic Bhon, Vidarbha, Maharashtra (Excavations 2003–07)
Editors: Dr. B.C. Deotare, Dr. Gurudas Shete, Dr. Reshma Sawant, Dr. Satish Naik
Publisher: The Mythic Society, Bengaluru
First Edition: 2025
Pages: xviii + 236 | ISBN: 978-81-954980-5-5
Design & Print: Suhaas Graphics, Bengaluru
About the Book
Early Historic Bhon, Vidarbha, Maharashtra (Excavations 2003–07) presents a landmark archaeological study that documents the results of five seasons of excavations conducted at Bhon, an early historic settlement located in the Purna Basin of Vidarbha. This volume marks the first systematic exploration of the region’s early urban development through a multidisciplinary lens, combining traditional excavation with advanced scientific and analytical methods.
The research, led by scholars from the Deccan College Post-Graduate and Research Institute, Pune, and supported by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), offers a comprehensive insight into the cultural, economic, and technological evolution of early historic Vidarbha.
The study meticulously examines aspects such as:
Stratigraphy and structural remains revealing urban planning and architectural traditions.
Pottery and material culture, including Northern Black Polished Ware, red-slipped wares, and molded artifacts.
Numismatic evidence, indicating trade and monetary systems.
Plant and animal remains, reflecting agricultural practices and subsistence strategies.
Scientific analyses, such as XRD and anthrosol chemistry, offering data on local resource utilization and environmental adaptation.
Together, these findings illuminate a sophisticated urban lifestyle at Bhon — complete with water management, sanitation, craft specialization, and religious activity — and establish the site’s importance within the broader framework of the early historic civilizations of central India.
Significance
This publication represents a major addition to the field of Indian archaeology and cultural history. It not only extends the geographical scope of early historic research beyond the better-known centers of the Deccan and Ganga basins but also integrates scientific dating, archaeobotany, and archaeozoology into regional archaeological study.
The editors — Dr. B.C. Deotare, Dr. Gurudas Shete, Dr. Reshma Sawant, and Dr. Satish Naik — bring together decades of field experience and interdisciplinary expertise. The collaboration between the Deccan College and The Mythic Society exemplifies the shared commitment to preserving and interpreting India’s archaeological heritage through scientific rigor and public dissemination.
Publisher’s Note
Founded in 1909, The Mythic Society, Bengaluru, continues to be a leading center for historical and archaeological research in India. With more than a century of scholarly contribution, including the publication of the Quarterly Journal of the Mythic Society and multiple research monographs, this book adds to its legacy of promoting knowledge in history, archaeology, and culture.
Book Details
Title: Early Historic Bhon, Vidarbha, Maharashtra (Excavations 2003–07)
Editors: Dr. B.C. Deotare, Dr. Gurudas Shete, Dr. Reshma Sawant, Dr. Satish Naik
Publisher: The Mythic Society, Bengaluru
Pages: xviii + 236
Price: ₹1500/-
ISBN: 978-81-954980-5-5
Year: 2025
Design & Print: Suhaas Graphics, Bengaluru