The Fourth Session of the Indian History Congress, Lahore, 1940

Summary

The Fourth Session of the Indian History Congress was held in Lahore from 16–18 December 1940, attracting delegates from Indian universities, government archaeological departments, and learned bodies. Dr. S. Krishnaswami Aiyangar of Madras was elected General President, and proceedings from the previous Calcutta Session were presented. Six sectional meetings were chaired by notable scholars, including Ghulam Yazdani (Archaeology), R. K. Mukerji (Early India), and Sir Jogindar Singh (Sikh History). Discussions highlighted debates over archaeological interpretations, such as the authenticity of Nasik cave inscriptions and the identification of historical figures like Vikramaditya. The Local Reception Committee faced criticism for printing only paper titles without summaries, making it difficult for delegates to assess content. Sectional meetings were held concurrently, causing logistical challenges. Notable papers included those by Prof. V. V. Mirashi on the Vatsagulma grant and Dr. Altekar’s discovery of a Later Gupta-era record. Disagreements arose over textual emendations and historical claims, particularly in discussions about Malwa’s relationship with Harsha’s empire. The concluding session passed resolutions for electing office-bearers, though some delegates expressed dissatisfaction with the process. Prof. H. K. Sherwani invited the next session to Hyderabad, accepted by the Congress. A historical exhibition featuring Junior Roerich’s paintings and rare manuscripts was opened by the Chief Justice of Lahore High Court. The Numismatic Society also held its annual meeting alongside the Congress, with entertainment including a garden party by the Punjab University Historical Society. The session emphasized scholarly exchange but highlighted organizational challenges, such as the lack of paper summaries and concurrent