3 Review(s)

The study of religion as practiced by people who are at different levels of development has been a fascinating theme for social anthropologists. Pilgrimage centres and sacred complexes reflect facets of the civilization and culture of the communities they serve and can often be described as microcosms of civilization. Dr. Narayan’s work on Deoghar and Rajgir follows in the tradition set by Professor Vidyarthi and others in their studies on Kashi and Gaya. Deoghar or Baidyanathdham is the seat of one of the twele jyotirlingams in the Hindu pantheon. Within the same complex also lies Basukinath. Both shrines are frequented by people in fulfillment of vows and are associated with sacred rituals. Of anthropological interest is the fact that Deoghar lies within the tribal belt and its ritual activity reveals the influence of this proximity to primitive communities. The sacred complex of Rajgir includes Muslim, Sikh, Buddhist and Hindu sacred centres. Dr. Narayan’s studies on these two famed regional complexes should provide interesting material for social and cultural anthropologists, sociologists and the lay reader.