Self-propagating high-temperature synthesis (SHS) and processes based on SHS are currently being developed the world over for the production of powders and near-net shape components of advanced materials. The research activities that have been and are being carried out in this field are reviewed here. Theoretical principles underlying SHS process, such as equlibrium computation and kinetics involving heat and mass transfer are described. General concepts about the SHS reaction mechanisms with a few illustrative examples are presented. Along with a detailed description of the processing techniques such as powder production,in situ consolidation and casting, a few of the novel techniques based on SHS are also elaborated.