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Synopsis The present multi-volume series Encyclopaedia Indica is a pioneering attempt by the reputed authors to bring together not only the whole aspects of Indian history and culture, but also provides a lavishly illustrated details of the science, philosophy, religion, architecture, rural wonders, urban glories, social, economic and political history since early times starting from Indus valley civilization till the present days in a logical sequence and in chronological order. This encyclopaedia is broadly classified in four periods like ancient (3000 BC-1000 A.D.), medieval 1001 AD-1756 AD), pre-modern ((1757 AD-1947 AD) and post-modern (1947 to present day). The ancient period deals with social, political, economical, philosophical and cultural aspects of Indus civilization, Vedic age, Epic age, Shramana age, Magadh dynasty, Mauryan dynasty and other minor but important kingdom. The medieval period is important for the advent of Islam in India and its impact on various aspects of Indian life. The pre-modern period is important for generating national awakening among Indians against British exploitation. The study brings into limelight the rise of spirit of renaissance as generated by the great vigorous social and political leaders of India, but stopped halfway due to a retrogressive approach and separatist thinking resulting the partition of India and Pakistan in August, 1947. In the post-independence era, the war between India and Pakistan in 1971 caused the emergence of Bangladesh as a new independent nation in the world history. This multi-volume work covering all Indian States and Union Territories presents the contemporary India and its culture in the light of modern knowledge in its pristine vigour. Thus, it has become both a vertical and a horizontal study and is a unique contribution to the study of the ancient, medieval and contemporary modern India. Volumes 11-20 are devoted to Vedic language and literature, Rgveda, Samaveda, Yajurveda, Atharvaveda, Philosophy of Upanisads. Wisdom of Upanisads, Brahmanas, Aranyakas and Dharmasastras.