Saurashtrano Itihas - Book Summary

This book, "Saurashtrano Itihas" (The History of Saurashtra), authored by Shambhuprasad H. Desai and published by Shri Saurashtra Sanshodhan Mandal, Rajkot, aims to provide a comprehensive history of the SaurasGtra region in Gujarat, India. The book, originally published in Gujarati, covers a vast period from ancient times up to the year 1822, as indicated in the catalog link and page 2 of the provided text.

Here's a summary of the key aspects and content based on the provided text:

Scope and Purpose:

The book addresses a perceived gap in Saurashtra's history, noting that a complete history from ancient times to the 19th century was not readily available in a single volume.
It seeks to compile historical information from various sources, including inscriptions, coins, ancient texts, Persian manuscripts, and oral traditions preserved by Charans and Bhats.
The author intends to present a systematic history, detailing local histories of prominent centers like Dwarka, Prabhas, Vallabhi, Junagadh, Ghumli, Porbandar, Jamnagar, Bhavnagar, Halvad, Morbi, and Gandal.
The history goes beyond political events, aiming to include information on the administrative systems, currency, arts, architecture, literature, religion, and society of different periods.

Key Historical Periods and Dynasties Covered (as evident from the table of contents and chapter headings): The book appears to be structured chronologically, covering significant periods and ruling dynasties in Saurashtra's history:

Prachin Samay (Ancient Times): This section likely delves into the region's earliest history, mentioning Vedic times, the Harappan civilization, and references in epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata. It also touches upon the pre-historic era, mentioning sages and the significance of Saurashtra as a civilization hub. The Yadu dynasty and their settlement in Saurashtra, their rule, and the Yadava turmoil leading to Krishna's departure from Mathura to Dwarka are discussed.
Gupta Samrajya (Gupta Empire): The period of Gupta influence and administration in Saurashtra is likely covered, including details about governors and administrative divisions.
Vallabhi Samrajya (Vallabhi Empire): This appears to be a significant period, with the Vallabhi capital being a major political and cultural center. The book details the establishment of the Maitraka dynasty, their rulers, administrative practices, religious leanings (Buddhism and Brahmanism), and the eventual decline of the kingdom. The text mentions the founding of Vallabhi city and the possible connection of the Maitraka dynasty to the Gupta empire.
Vallabhi Paschat (After Vallabhi): This section likely covers the period after the fall of the Vallabhi empire, detailing the political fragmentation and the emergence of various local powers.
Rajput Samay (Rajput Era): This extensive section covers the period of Rajput rule in Saurashtra, detailing various prominent Rajput dynasties like the Chudasama, Jadeja, Chawda, Vaghela, and others. It delves into their political activities, conflicts, establishment of kingdoms, and cultural contributions. Key rulers like Chandrachud, Mulraj, Vikramji, and others are likely discussed. The book touches upon the establishment of kingdoms like Morbi, Dhrol, Halvad, and Chotila.
Gujarat Sultanate: This period marks the arrival and establishment of Muslim rule, starting with the Ghaznavid invasions, the establishment of the Delhi Sultanate's influence, and the eventual independent Gujarat Sultanate. The text mentions invasions by Mahmud of Ghazni, the destruction of Somnath, and the subsequent impact on the region. The book details the reigns of various Sultans, their administrative policies, religious persecution, and the impact on local culture and trade. Specific rulers like Muhammad Begada, Muzaffar Khan, and others are likely discussed.
Mughal Samrajya (Mughal Empire): The book traces the period when Saurashtra came under the Mughal administration. It discusses the establishment of Mughal authority, the administrative structure, revenue systems (like zabt and dahsala), the role of governors (subahdars), and the impact of Mughal policies on the region. The book mentions figures like Akbar, Jahangir, Shahjahan, Aurangzeb, and their viceroys and administrators in Gujarat and Saurashtra. It also highlights the decline of Mughal power and the rise of Maratha influence.

Key Themes and Content:

Source Material: The author emphasizes the use of diverse sources, including inscriptions, coins, ancient texts, Persian manuscripts, and oral traditions.
Local Histories: A significant focus is placed on detailing the history of various cities and regions within Saurashtra, highlighting their unique historical trajectories.
Socio-Economic Aspects: The book aims to cover administrative systems, currency, arts, literature, religion, and social structures, providing a holistic view of the past.
Religious Landscape: The text mentions the prevalence of Brahmanism, Buddhism, Jainism, and the later influence of Islam, along with the tolerance or persecution faced by different religious groups.
Interactions with Foreign Powers: The book likely discusses interactions with Greeks, Sakas, Pahlavas, Kushanas, Arabs, and later European powers like the Portuguese.
Social Fabric: The text touches upon the caste system, the influence of Brahmins, the role of Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras, as well as the emergence of new communities and the assimilation of foreign elements.
Inscriptions and Epigraphy: The importance of inscriptions, particularly the Junagadh rock inscription (likely the Girnar or Rudradaman inscription), is highlighted as a crucial source of information.
Economic Activities: Aspects like trade, currency, and agriculture are also likely discussed.

Author's Approach and Acknowledgements:

The author, Shambhuprasad H. Desai, appears to have dedicated significant effort to this work, gathering information from various places over many years.
The preface by Dolatram R. Mankad praises the book for its comprehensive nature and its focus on local history, which he considers a major achievement.
The publisher's statement indicates the book was a response to the need for a complete history of Saurashtra.
The author acknowledges the influence of his father, Harprasad Udayshankar Desai, and highlights his contributions to archaeology and scholarship.
The author also expresses a commitment to improving the book in future editions based on suggestions and guidance.

In essence, "Saurashtrano Itihas" by Shambhuprasad H. Desai is presented as a foundational work for understanding the rich and complex history of Saurashtra, drawing from a wide array of sources to offer a detailed narrative of its rulers, people, and cultural developments across millennia.