The Splendour of Himalayan Art and Culture

Book excerpt: "The Himalayas are a source of inspiration and challenge to the researchers, intellectuals and adventurers. The lofty mountains with snow-clad peaks and lush green forests fascinate one and all. This work on the art and culture of people of the Himalayan region is fourth in sequence by the author. After Folk Art of Duggar; Ripples in the Himalayas; and Rajat Shikhron Ke Rupehle Swar, this work completes the first phase of studies of Himalayan culture. Earlier Kumaon, Garhwal, Kashmir and Ladakh Himalayas and their ranges were covered in detail. With the inclusion of Dhauladhar ranges and nearby surroundings of Kangra, Palampur, Baijnath, Mandi, Kullu, Manali, Lahaul & Spiti, Kinnaur and upper regions of Shimla in this book, it completes the studies of western Himalayas. The author has visited himself in most of these areas and collected the data so that first hand information can be provided to the readers. In a way it is a first endeavour in this field wherein the people and the land are discussed collectively for the first time. However, individual tribes of Himachal Pradesh do find their place in sociological studies done in the field, but we do not find a comparative study for which an objective effort has been made in this book for the benefit of readers and art historians alike. The book covers the art, architecture and cultural aspects of Himachal Pradesh. References have also been made to Basohli, Jammu, Manket, etc. as the Pahari art of minature paintings had its own legacy in these erstwhile kingdoms." -- Cover description.