Dear Narendra,
I think, academic discussions are fruitful if we do engage and get engaged in arguments. Expressions like ‘untenable’ or ‘Jats were not Aryans’ smack of magisterial approach which could not lead to a productive debate. We all have our limitations of access to latest information on a given topic. I too have mine. And I am sure you could not have got the impression of my ploughing my lonely furrow in the matter of the ‘ late and Arab origins’ of the term ‘Jat’ had you had access to the very extensive researches conducted by the German Westphal couple and published in their two books which are listed on Jatland Wiki library. The bigger Volume in German language is as good as inaccessible to many of us. I also refer you to the statement in the ‘Majmaultwareekh’ ( I wish I could give the exact reference!) that ‘ the Arabs call the hinus ‘Jat’.
When a limited reference is made to the error of judgment in the writing of the western writers it should not be taken as a whole condemnation of their efforts. But if one makes a comprehensive study of the background of several commissioned authors in a strictly political context one can not fail to notice the motives which, in several cases, have not been found to be purely research for objective history. I would like to draw a line between well informed indigenous authors marshalling arguments on the basis of hitherto unexplored information or new facts on the one side, and on the other side the self appointed saviours of our ancient civilization, churning out a fanciful account of our past to receive standing ovation from the gullible ones among us. If you have not happened to go through Maculay’s writings and in this regard it may be helpful to appreciate the point made about colonial approach.And as I have pointed out earlier were not some of the distinguished British writers part of the 'Great Game' being played on Central Asia during the 18/19 th centurie?
At the same time I am deeply touched by the regard you have expressed towards me personally in your reponses.
Also I am flattered when I find you agreeing with me on my views regarding j’ata jhata anghate’ in the dhatupatha of Panini. But there many who do not agree. I respect their views also. However, I would like to continue to argue with them, with freh insights if possible.
Thanks.
s.s.rana
A people is known by the kind of history it writes, or forgets to write one/