Authored by one of the leading scholars of German Indology, “Fortified Cities in Ancient India” offers a comparative exploration of the development of towns and cities in ancient India. Based on in-depth textual and archeological research, Professor Dieter Schlingloff’s work presents for the first time the striking outcomes of intertwining data garnered from a wide range of sources. This volume scrutinizes much of the established knowledge on urban fortifications in South Asia, advancing new conceptions based on an authoritative, far-reaching study.

India has a rich cultural past and this is reflected in its innumerable forts, palaces and other monuments, which abound not only in architectural splendour but intriguing individual histories. This book takes a splendid tour of these structures through the whole of India, from Kashmir in the north to Kerala in the south. The architectural magnificence and luxury of these royal palaces are highlighted in the full-colour pictures and detailed essays. Over 325 colour photographs revel in the buildings glorious details and special features, while vivid descriptions of each palace transport the reader back in time into a realm of truly royal experience. Encompassing the rich cultural heritage of India, these forts and palaces offer an authentic Indian experience to heritage lovers.

The Indian subcontinent offers a fascinating collection of historic forts and royal palaces waiting to be explored. Over the centuries, as kingdoms rose and fell or expanded into mighty empires, the need for protection against invaders resulted in the building of magnificent forts and fortified citadels across the country. Many of these fortresses sheltered entire cities, as well as royal palaces and pleasure gardens that were known for their splendor and luxury. "Mighty Maharajas: Forts and Palaces of India" brings together a unique architectural legacy from ancient forts mentioned in Hindu epics to strongholds built by succession of rulers, arranged geographically within a historic or aesthetic context. The narrative provides glimpses of history enlivened by stirring tales of valor and sacrifice while lavish color photographs reflect the cultural heritage of each palace and fort, bringing the royal experience to life for the reader. Praise for "Mighty Maharajas" ""Mighty Maharajas: Forts & Palaces of India" by Amita Baig is a beautiful book featuring nearly sixty, very impressive buildings throughout the country. From a design standpoint I am particularly drawn to the bold colors and the acute attention to detail. Take a look!" "Home Design with Kevin Sharkey" ""Mighty Maharajas: Forts & Palaces of India "tours more than 60 historic sites throughout India, including crumbling hillside bastions, royal quarters adorned with dizzying glass mosaics, and opulent colonial-era villas that blend local and European styles." "Elle Decor " "It's fascinating to see how the distinct Indian aesthetic has endured and evolved amid thousands of years of upheaval and outside influences. . . . Architect and photographer Joginder Singh's breathtaking images are there to satisfy those who learn by looking. . . . Singh masterfully captures the play of light and a sense of scale. . . . After coming to the last page, I find myself making all sorts of connections between Indian buildings, textiles, jewelry and fashion." "Style Court" blog "Mighty Maharajas" by Amita Baig, with opulent photographs by Joginder Singh, covers select forts and palaces across the length and breadth of the country, along with their fascinating history. The sumptuous book also offers an interesting glimpse into the lifestyle of the royalty. "An Indian Summer" blog With over 319 color illustrations showcasing ancient forts and palaces, you could lose yourself for hours. Informative narratives offering glimpses of these amazing edifices and their dramatic history as well as photographs illustrating their grandeur and opulence will keep you turning the pages. "Annechovie" blog Blending history, architecture, and photography, ["Mighty"] "Maharajas" takes readers deep into the Indian subcontinent. "Entertainment Weekly" "

A deep dive in the history, geography, culture and the trade of ancient India; this book gives you all the information you need about the forts built on the coastline of India.

This book contains information on 4088 forts in 26 States, 6 Union Territories and 521 Districts of India. Additionally, there are 1282 colored photographs and 33 maps in this book. Information on latitude, longitude and height from sea level for each fort, along with its distance and direction from district headquarters, current state of the fort, structures on the same, its brief history, as well as famous places near the fort etc. has been provided. Also, information about forts given in more than 43 ancient texts like Rigveda, Manusmriti, Purana, Ramayana, Mahabharata, Arthashastra etc. has been provided. Description of ancient forts that are symbolic of India’s glorious tradition since Harappa, Mohenjo-daro, Kalibangan, Lothal, Pataliputra has also been included. A brief geographical description of India along with its states has also been given. This book is one of its kind, where in India’s 4000 forts, palaces, fortification, remnants of ancient forts, fortified cities, travellers’ inns, small forts built for supervision of main roads and watch towers etc. have been included. Such a comprehensive list of forts and information on them had never been created so far. This 780 page book has been authored by Pramod Maruti Mande and co-authored by Mr. Aniket Ankush Yadav and Mr. Chetan Gajanan Ghadge.