With coverage not only of India, but also of Nepal, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, this book surveys nearly 5000 years, from the early settlers of pre-history to the Tamil Tiger conflicts and the overseas migration of modern South Asians. Particularemphasis is placed on the last 200 years, while the key theme of shifting regional identities underpins the author’s insights into the social, economic and spiritual past of this region. This is an account of the colonial influences, political intrigues and religious differences that constitute the history of India and South Asia.