A Comprehensive Study of Spatial Distribution, Typology and Functional Variation of the Megalithic Tradition of North-East India

Arpita Biswas* and Bina Gandhi Deori

Visva-Bharati Santiniketan, India; *arpitatitasbiswas@gmail.com

The megalithic traditions of North-Eastern India show evidence of continuity of practices that are still alive among some tribal communities. Over the years, many regional studies have been conducted on this subject. However, the overall coverage is still uneven and fragmentary, which makes it difficult to create a clear regional and inter-regional map. This study systematically collects and brings together existing research on megalithic types and their functions, and cultural importance across Northeast India as a whole. The main aim is to identify the similarities and differences of megaliths, found among various ethnic communities and geographical regions. This paper raises some important analytical questions: Why were these megaliths erected in particular forms and directions? Can similar functions be identified even though the types of megaliths are different? Why do some functions remain the same across different communities and geographical locations? Does this similarity indicate a shared cultural memory, cultural diffusion, or similar social and ritual needs? What specific purposes do these monuments serve within their respective social contexts? By addressing these questions, the study explores both the functional diversity and the structural uniformity. The findings highlight the region’s distinctive position in global megalithic studies. This continuity offers exceptional opportunities to understand the social organisation, ritual meanings, technological knowledge, and collective memory connected with megalithic construction.