Prof. Sheila Mishra

Professor Sheila Mishra is a distinguished Indian archaeologist specializing in prehistoric archaeology and geoarchaeology. She retired as Professor and Head of the Department of Archaeology at Deccan College in September 2015, having served in the department since May 1986. She earned her Ph.D. in 1985 under the supervision of Professor S.N. Rajaguru, focusing on Early Man and Environments in Western Madhya Pradesh. Her academic journey began with a B.A. in Archaeology from Simon Fraser University, Canada, in 1976.

Research Contributions

Prof. Mishra has significantly contributed to the study of prehistoric archaeology in South Asia. Her key research highlights include: Excavation of the 50,000-year-old site of Mehtakheri, Narmada river, provides the earliest evidence for modern humans in India. Investigations at Acheulian sites such as Bori and Morgaon in Pune District, particularly their association with volcanic tephra deposits. A pioneering re-evaluation of Indian Acheulian technology, highlighting its distinctiveness from European Acheulian traditions and arguing for its indigenous origins in India. Insights into the impact of geological processes on archaeological sites.Prof. Mishra has an extensive academic output, with around 80 research papers published and participation in 78 conferences worldwide. She has presented her Research at major international conferences in France, Canada, Korea, China, Malaysia, Thailand, Japan, and Russia. Her work has played a crucial role in shaping the study of prehistoric archaeology in India, particularly in understanding early human occupations and technological adaptations in the subcontinent.