Patna: On International Women’s Day, the Directorate of Archaeology, under Bihar’s Department of Art, Culture and Youth, organised a one-day seminar at Bihar Museum, Patna, highlighting the role of women archaeologists in Indian archaeology. Scholars from across the country presented their research and shared insights into their fieldwork.
The event commenced with a ceremonial lamp-lighting, followed by a welcome address from Rachna Patil, director of archaeology, museums and culture. Congratulating the attendees on Women’s Day, she emphasised the importance of archaeology in bridging science and history, and expressed hope for enriching discussions throughout the seminar. The session was moderated by Jyoti Mishra.
Academic Discussions on Women in Archaeology
The seminar featured several distinguished speakers. Professor Vidula Jaiswal of Banaras Hindu University presented on “Early Man in Bihar: Archaeological Investigations at Paisara,” discussing the prehistoric human settlements in the region, particularly the Asulian culture. She highlighted the potential for further archaeological discoveries in Bihar.
Professor Sharada Srinivasan from the National Institute of Advanced Studies, Bangalore, explored “Women in Chola Art and Patronage,” examining archaeometallurgical studies on bronze sculptures. She noted historical instances where women were depicted wearing the sacred thread, challenging conventional gender roles.
Professor Ambika Dhaka of Sikkim University spoke on “Portrayal of Women in Ancient Indian Sculptural Art Form.” She detailed the prominence of female figures in religious art, reflecting their societal roles as dancers, musicians and devotees. However, she pointed out the lack of representation of elderly, disabled or sick women in historical depictions.
Dr Gautami Bhattacharya of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) delivered a lecture on “Reclaiming the Past,” based on her research at Kurisarai in Gaya. She discussed the identification of the site as the ancient Silabhadra monastery, mentioned in the 7th-century accounts of Chinese traveller Hiuen Tsang.
Dr Arpita Ranjan (ASI) presented on “Contributions of Women to Indian Inscriptions,” illustrating the influential role of women in historical governance. She referenced inscriptions by Queen Gautami Balashri in the Satavahana dynasty and Queen Karuvaki’s charitable contributions, as recorded on the Allahabad pillar.
Acknowledgement and Participation
The seminar concluded with a vote of thanks from Kahkashan, administrative officer of Bhartiya Nritya Kala Mandir. Senior technical assistant Dr Harsh Ranjan Kumar was acknowledged for his role in organising the event. Among the attendees were Anil Kumar Sinha, deputy secretary of the Art, Culture and Youth Department, and Vinay Kumar, regional deputy director of the Bihar Museum.
