About the Book: Land of the Eastern Light by Nabaarun Barooah is a compelling history of ancient Assam, exploring the region from mythic antiquity to the eve of the Ahom kingdom. Blending history, mythology, politics, warfare, and culture, the book brings to life figures such as Naraka, Bhagadatta, Bhaskaravarman, and Prithu. It explores the ancient kingdoms of Pragjyotisha and Kamarupa, the origins of Kamakhya, tantric traditions, and resistance to foreign invasions. Richly researched and vividly written, this fascinating account restores pre-Ahom Assam to the historical narrative and offers new insight into one of India’s least explored ancient civilizations.