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Proof that oral tradition started 2000 years before it was written?

Probably more like 1000–1500. There is an extensive academic literature on the topic.

I have been reading a LOT on the topic. The date ranges usually from 1700-1200, mostly skewing towards 1700-1500. Mostly they date it based on stylistic reasons and things mentioned in them, that seem to correlate with those timeframes.

1700–1500 BCE, for the original composition?

Any recommendations for an overview of the field?

There is a good book by Romila Thapar, “Early History of India” , for the general overview of early history. You probably want her latest edition, they changed a lot over the years.

A bit more classical but thorough is a History of India by Herman Kulke and Dietmar Rothermund.

And the best one to go into detail is “The Rigveda : a guide” by Joel P Brereton & Stephanie W Jameson.

Thank you very much!

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