Abstract

This review explores William Dalrymple’s “The Golden Road: How Ancient India Transformed the World,” emphasizing India’s pivotal role in shaping global cultural, intellectual, and economic landscapes during antiquity. The narrative highlights historical trade routes, the dissemination of religious philosophies, and advancements in mathematics and science, alongside the interconnectivity between diverse regions, including Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. Central to this discourse is the concept of the “Indosphere,” which illustrates India’s influence on cultures beyond its borders, fostering a rich exchange of ideas and practices. This review critiques the inclusivity and depth of Dalrymple’s argument, addressing regional diversities and the nuanced transmission of knowledge, while advocating for a recognition of India’s historical contributions as foundational to modern global frameworks.