1. Early Indians: The Story of Our Ancestors and Where We Came From by Tony Joseph
Tony Joseph, has coupled the old and the new, and written an account of how our ancestors had a lot to do with who we are today in more ways than we can imagine.
2. Aśoka and the Decline of the Mauryas by Romila Thapar
In the book, Romila Thapar reveals many a lore surrounding the dynasty like how its name came to be called ‘Moriyas’ because their ancestors settled in places where there was an abundance of peacocks.
3. The Ocean of Churn: How the Indian Ocean Shaped Human History by Sanjeev Sanyal
While historical books usually tend to focus on the culture they are speaking of, this one focuses on the instrument that has been responsible for shaping the cultures — the Indian Ocean.
4. Time Pieces: A Whistle-Stop Tour of Ancient India by Nayanjot Lahiri
The book sheds light on how ancient society was different from the present day, in that our ancestors spent a great deal of time focusing on personal growth.
5. The Penguin History of Early India by Romila Thapar
In this book, one can find accounts of how the subcontinent has been transformed by invasions and different dynasties, and how every ruling power has left a legacy behind.
6. The Wonder That Was India by A L Basham
Author Arthur Llewellyn Basham’s accounts in the book have been influenced by the first-hand accounts of his father, who served in the Indian Army.
7. A History of South India by Sastri K A Nilakanta
For anyone wishing to gain an in-depth insight into the dynasties, kingdoms and rulers of South India, this book is a treasure trove of information.
8. Ancient Cities of the Indus Valley Civilization by Jonathan Mark Kenoyer
What makes this book a fascinating read is that Kenoyer himself has led excavations at Harappa in Punjab, Pakistan for over a decade.
9. Coromandel: A Personal History of South India by Charles Allen
The book is a deep dive into the coast of Coromandel, a Southeastern coastal region of India called Cholamandalam, meaning the land of the Chola Dynasty.
10. A History of Ancient and Early Medieval India by Upinder Singh
The book lays focus on the writings of the European scholars who were known as the Orientalists, and how translation, textual study, epigraphy, etc, became common.