Imagine a time when India had no people—only giant rhinos, sabre-toothed cats, monster snakes, and a few brave archaic humans struggling to survive. Then, the first Homo sapiens arrived, facing ferocious beasts, rival humans, and the relentless challenges of a wild land. Ancient Indians invites young readers on a thrilling expedition across 65,000 years of history to uncover the story of how India came to be home to over a billion people today.

Adapted from the bestselling adult book Early Indians, this edition for children has been brought to life by award-winning author Devika Cariapa. With a gripping narrative, fascinating discoveries, and vivid illustrations, the book transforms history and archaeology into a high-speed adventure. Readers will explore how ancient humans survived, migrated, and shaped the genetic and cultural mosaic of modern India, all through fossils, ruins, and clues hidden in our very DNA.

Ancient Indians is more than a book—it is a detective story of the human past, where science meets storytelling. It answers the big questions: Who were India’s first inhabitants? How did they survive? And how did their extraordinary journey lead to the India we know today?

About the Authors:
Tony Joseph, a journalist and historian, has spent over a decade researching the origins of the Indian population. His first book, Early Indians, became a bestseller and continues to be celebrated for its meticulous research and engaging storytelling.

Devika Cariapa, an archaeologist-turned-author, specializes in bringing history and archaeology to life for young readers. She has received the Sahitya Akademi’s Bal Sahitya Puraskar (2019) and numerous other literary awards. Through her writing, she inspires curiosity and wonder about the ancient world.

Why This Book Matters:

• The first authoritative children’s book on ancient India, crafted to educate and enthrall.
• Makes complex history accessible, exciting, and interactive for young minds.
• Encourages exploration, curiosity, and a deeper appreciation of India’s rich human story.
• Perfect for young readers fascinated by adventure, science, and the secrets of the past.

With Ancient Indians, history is not just something to read—it’s a journey to experience, a story to live, and a mystery waiting to be uncovered.