Author:

Dr. Santu Halder
Ph.D Research Schola
Department of History
Jadavpur University
Kolkata,West Bengal,India
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0005-1478-9262
Email: santuhalder2010@gmail.com

Abstract:: Hunting is arguably the oldest sport practiced within human society, transcending geographical and temporal boundaries. It is well-documented that hunting has been a part of Indian culture since ancient times; however, in its early stages, particularly during the prehistoric era, hunting served primarily as a means of procuring food for early humans. As societies evolved from food gatherers to food producers, the significance of hunting as a food source diminished. Subsequently, hunting transitioned into a form of leisure and entertainment predominantly enjoyed by elite military leaders and the ruling class. Despite shifts in the political landscape, hunting retained its popularity among the ruling elite. Hunting was popular in India, and large-scale hunts were organized among various ruling classes in Ancient India, the ruling classes of the Middle Ages, especially the Mughals and the British rulers during colonial rule. Large-scale hunts were organized under British colonial rule, and local ruling classes also participated in hunting activities from ancient times through to the modern era. While hunting became a recreational activity for the elite, it also served various imperial purposes. Historically, the ruling class utilized hunting as a means to assert their unassailable power over subordinate territories, although the imperial motives behind hunting evolved over time. For instance, while hunting primarily served military objectives in ancient and medieval periods, during colonial rule, it became associated with efforts to legitimize the authority of colonial rulers. This article aims to elucidate the significant transformations that have occurred over time regarding the purpose, nature, techniques, methods, scope, and weaponry associated with hunting as a sport in India, spanning from ancient times to the contemporary era. The research for this article draws upon contemporary historical materials from various epochs, as well as a range of analytical texts and articles authored in subsequent periods.

Key Words:: Ancient Era, Colonial, Hunting, Medieval Era, Modern Era, Mughal etc.