History of Buddhism in Assam (c. 300 B.C.–1200 A.D.)

The book is organized into five main parts. It begins with the ancient names and geographical features of Assam, then presents a survey of early Buddhism, including Buddhist doctrine, sects, and Aśokan expansion. The central chapters discuss the introduction of Buddhism into Assam, the role of Kāmarūpa, the account of Hiuen Tsang, and surviving Buddhist remains. The later sections examine the continuing existence and influence of Buddhism in Assam through art, culture, immigrant Tai groups, Tibetan Buddhist communities, and local religious practices. The conclusion synthesizes the evidence and argues for Buddhism’s historical significance in Assam despite the fragmentary nature of available records.