In its current form, this book was published for the first time in 1976. I happened to read its 11th Edition of May 2010, which was published by LokWangmaya Griha, Mumbai. The preface to this book is written by Shripad Amrut Dange, a noted communist leader from India. The preface itself is an excellent reading before we come to the book proper. It is written in Marathi language, which is currently in use by approximately 100 mn people of India.The Marathi used in the book is of 1920's vintage (more Sanskrut bias), which may appear difficult to the present day readers.

In this book Etihasacharya V K Rajwade takes a very objective look on the evolution of marriage system from the Vedic/Pre-Vedic times to its present form. In support of his argument he has amply quoted from Rig Veda, Yajur Veda,Taiteriya Samhita etc. Rather than believing in anything divine, he has postulated the logical development of human beings from its ape ancestors. Also postulated is the crystallisation of various norms and traditions dictating the present Hindu marriage system.

This book not only contains the comments on history of marriage institution but also touches upon development of Sanskrit language, various art forms and variety of other topics.

This book was reasearched and written between 1915 to 1930. However, due to the controvercies surrounding this so called blasphemous writing (as per standards then) no publisher was ready to take the risk of publishing the book and face the excommunication. Comrade S A Dange wanted to use the reasearch done by Mr Rajwade, in substantiating communist theories/ ideology. Thus, he agreed to publish the book in the form of series of articles in his magzine. However, this book could not be completed due to unaviodable circumstances like jail term for Mr Dange (by British Govt for his trade union activities) and untimely death of Mr Rajwade. Notwithstanding all these, this book is higly recommended for reading to every serious student of history, sociology and anthropology.

Someone should seriously consider translating this book in English so as to make it available to large number of readers.

Shailesh Raikar, India ssraikar1009@gmail.com