Acknowledgement

Before talking anything about my Ph.D research journey, I would like to give my heartiest thanks to my Supervisor Dr. Nirja Sharma, under her supervision and guidance, I have not only successfully completed this thesis but know the real meaning of life. Dr. Nirja Sharma is not only one of the strengthening major pillar of my life but as the source of energy like the sun through which I enlightened my previous life and started loving to the study of Kaushambi. My special gratitude to the Department of Buddhist Studies which, throughout my 10 years long association, not only provided an intellectual stimulating milieu but has shaped me fundamentally. A sincere thanks to Prof. Subhra Barua Pavagadhi, the Head of the Department for supporting me like a parent and mentor.

Prof. I.N. Singh constant guidance has helped me enormously. He has always been a source of inspiration, both as a teacher and also as a person. His provocative styles of queries constantly invigorate me to strive for the better. He always stands with me in my adverse situation. Prof. R.K. Rana took special interest in my topic and his incisive incites have helped me to explore the issue more profoundly. I am grateful to Prof. H.P. Gang Negi for his interest in my work. I am also thankful t our very respective and friendly teacher Dr. K.N. Tiwari, Dr. Sushmita and Dr. Galden Negi.

My heartfelt thanks and honor to Prof. K.T.S. Sarao, he always took interest in my research work and guided me about my field work and provided many resources.

My heartiest thanks to my dearest colleague Ms. Shashi Bala Archana, Ms. Prem Lata, Department of Buddhist Studies, University of Delhi, Dr. H.K. Baluja I have no word for her unconditional support and advice. He always supported me in my critical and adverse situations and enlightened me with her practical and productive knowledge.

I am also grateful to all my well wishers, My Husband (Vaibhav Hans), My Daughter Pihu & University colleagues, whose love and best wishes is and remain with me that will give me strength to work in an adverse situations.

I would like to thank the almighty and my parents who have always supported me and stood with me in my ups and downs of life. They are my pillar of strength.

Sapna