Bengal Basin in the Midst of the Bay of Bengal and the Indian Ocean Littoral: A Study of the Earliest Trading Centre and the Nautical Network of Inland and Oceanic Trade originating from Ancient Bengal

This study explores the pivotal role of the Bengal Basin in shaping ancient maritime and inland trade networks in South Asia. Centered on the region’s complex deltaic system and strategic coastal position, the research investigates how natural features such as the expansive Gangetic delta and extensive river networks fostered both local commerce and long-distance trade across the Indian Ocean. The aim is to integrate archaeological findings, numismatic data, and epigraphic sources to reconstruct the dynamic trade routes and navigational practices that underpinned ancient Bengal’s economic and cultural development. Key objectives include delineating the inland waterway systems that facilitated regional connectivity and demonstrating how climatic factors—particularly the predictable monsoon winds—enabled maritime voyages linking Bengal with Southeast Asia, China, and beyond. Analysis of copper-plate inscriptions, diverse coinage spanning several historical periods, and literary sources reveals that these natural and cultural networks not only stimulated economic integration but also promoted significant religious and artistic exchanges. Findings indicate that Bengal’s inland waterways served as vital arteries for the movement of goods and ideas, laying the foundation for broader overseas trade networks. Moreover, the evidence highlights that despite a gradual decline in direct long-distance maritime trade by the tenth century CE, the legacy of these networks persisted in the form of enduring cultural and economic influences throughout the Indian Ocean realm. In conclusion, the study demonstrates that the Bengal Basin was integral to the development of early trade systems, combining environmental advantages with advanced navigational expertise. The findings advocate for a dynamic, interdisciplinary approach in reconstructing ancient trade networks, emphasizing that a deeper understanding of Bengal’s maritime heritage is essential to appreciating its lasting impact on South Asian historical geography and cultural evolution.