About the Book : The study of religion as practised by people who are at different leveis of development has been- a fascinating theme for social anthropologists. Pilgrimage centres and sacred complexes reflect facets of the civilization and culture of the communities they serve and can often be described as microcosms of civilization. Dr. Narayan's work on Deoghar and Rajgir follows in the tradition set by Professor Vidyarthi and others in their studies on Kashi and Gaya. Deoghar or Baidyanathdham is the seat of one of the twelve jyotirlingams in the Hindu pantheon. Within the same complex also lies Basukinath. Both shrines are frequented by people in fulfillment of vows and are associated with sacred rituals. Of anthropological interest is the fact that Deoghar lies within the tribal beit and its ritual activity reveals the influence of this proximity to primitive communities. The sacred complex of Rajgir includes Muslim, Sikh, Buddhist and Hindu sacred centres. Dr. Narayan's studies on these two famed regional sacred complexes should provide interesting material for social and cultural anthropologists, sociologists and the lay reader. About Author : Sachindra Narayan (b. 1947) holds M. A. and Ph. D. degrees in Anthropology from Ranchi University and has been a recipient of medals and certificates for his anthropological writings. Several of his articles have appeared in national and international journals. The SITE programme in Bihar was successfully implemented under his guidance during his tenure as Scientist at the Space Applications Centre in Ahmedabad. A life member of various professional bodies of international and national standing, Dr. Narayan writes regularly on current topics. Currently he is in the Division of Sociology and Social Anthropology, A.N. Sinha Institute of Social Studies, Patna and also teaches Sociology at Patna University.