The present work substantially represents my thesis for which I was awarded the degree of Doctor of Philosophy by Ranchi University in July 1985. An attempt has been made in the following pages to portray briefly the salient features of the social life of medieval Mithila mainly as depicted in the contemporary literatures.

Mithila under the Oinvaras and early Khandavala rulers became prominent in the history of India for its socio-cultural achievements. Its speciality in food habits, dress, games, sports and festivals, its marvallous achievement in the field of education and learning, her respectful but conservative outlook towards women and some of the unique social institutions such as 'Panji Prabandh' encouraged me to do this work. Written in five chapters, the book is expected to be of use for the students and general readers interested in the social life of Mithila. All pains have been taken to verify every item of this thesis. Lapses and mistakes, however, cannot be ruled out in a work of this kind. I alone am responsible for mistakes if any, as well as for the opinions and the interpretations presented in this thesis.