Studies on the megalithic remains of Manipur

Abstract

This thesis deals with the megalithic cultures found among the different tribal communities of Manipur based on the available data collected during my own fieldwork, the explora-tion of megalithic sites. The aim and object of this work is to synthesise the available data and to outline briefly the location of the megalithic sites in Manipur and its structu-ral and functional classifications along with its local tradi-tions, as far as the materials allow. The work is presented in one volume having seven chapters. The scope of the subject and its problems along with our aim and object have been outlined in the introduction. The first chapter deals with the geographical back-ground of the area. It includes a brief account of the topo-graphical features of the region, its geology, climate, flora and fauna. In the second chapter, an attempt has been made to give brief ethnographical and historical notes on different tribes, which are found in association with this megalithic culture. The third chapter contains a report on the investi-gations carried out by the author, i.e. explored megalithic sites together with a detailed study of materials collected there. This is followed by the structural analysis of the monuments along with their different local traditions. The fourth chapter deals with different megalithic aspects based on structural and functional types. The fifth chapter contains a detailed study on the social and religious significance of this culture. In the sixth chapter, an attempt has been made to trace the affinity and origin of the megalithic culture of Manipur. A chronological sequence of the culture has also been proposed and the probable dates have been discussed. The final chapter presents a summary of the investi-gation including a few tentative conclusions which we venture to draw regarding the development, affinity, origin and chro-nology of the megalithic culture of Manipur.