Mangoes, Mughals, Hindu & Buddhist Traditions
byThe mango, despite being a seasonal fruit, has been a part of India’s history. It is deeply rooted not only in our taste buds but also in our culture.
Insight
Tracing The History Of The Word Loot
byHere’s the story of how the word “loot” was looted from Sanskrit and appropriated into the English language.
The Arabic Origins Of The Words “Hindu” & “India”
byThat the word ‘Hindu’ came from the early Muslim settlers is interesting, as is the long-standing camaraderie between India and the Middle East.
The Camera’s Journey: From Capturing Images To A Weapon Of Surveillance
byThe evolution of the camera–from a philosophical idea to a surveillance tool–is fascinating. Read it.
How The Harmonium Made Its Way To India
byThe harmonium, a musical instrument that has its origins in Europe, is now an integral part of Indian music.
The Mosques Of Aurangzeb In Mathura & Varanasi
byHistory has now become a powerful political weapon. Historical narratives are now used for political gains–and to engineer social change.
Indira Gandhi & The Smiling Buddha
byIndira Gandhi’s involvement proved pivotal for the Smiling Buddha.
Jahangir, The Opium Addict & Nur Jahan, The Empress
byHistory records Emperor Jahangir as one of the great Mughal Emperors while Nur Jahan is relegated to the shadows.
Bindi: A Symbol of Religious & Caste Oppression
byThe bindi, much like the Hijab, is a religious symbol. Rooted in religion, it symbolises caste oppression. Will the court ban Hindu girls from wearing the Bindi in schools?
The Eruption That Collapsed Economies & Inspired Literature
byThe wrath of Tambora has forever been immortalised in the pieces echoing the crumbling façade of human hubris.
The Curious Connection Between Russian Ruble & Indian Rupee
byThe Russian Ruble & Indian rupee have had a long history. At one point, India’s Prime Minister Desai & foreign minister Vajpayee went to Moscow to discuss currency exchange.
A Tiger, A Tribal Deity & Asia’s Largest Tribal Gathering
byThe Sammakka Saralamma Jatara is in danger of being appropriated by Hinduism. The greatest fear of tribal communities is the appropriation of a tribal celebration.
The Origins Of The Kiss
byKissing is an Indian export to the world. When Alexander The Great came to India, he saw people kissing. Fascinated, he learned the art and took it back with him.
Avagunthana, Ghoonghat, Hijab: One Practice, Many Names
byGhoonghat, Hijab, Purdah, Burkha–one costume, many names. One practice, many traditions, many interpretations; contentious, especially in the context of gender equality, liberty & freedom.
From Sukarno To Bolsonaro: The Guests Of Republic Day
byThe invitations extended to the guests of the Republic day–as much as they reflect the domestic political aspirations–are, a reflection of the geo-politics of the day.