From Ukku To Wootz: How ‘Wootz Steel’ Originated In South India & Travelled Across The Globe
byThe role of Wootz Steel in the historical development of materials in India has received little attention.
Insight
When The Romans Traded With Malabar
byMuziris was one of the most prominent and active ports trading with the Romans. Here, they exchanged pepper and other spices for gold.
How The Portuguese Crown Introduced Órfãs del Rei As A Colonisation Strategy In Goa
byÓrfãs del Rei, or ‘Orphans of the King,’ aimed at increasing the white population in Goa, postulated that orphaned Portuguese girls would be married off to merchants who sailed to India.
Chetak: A Partner in Life & Death
byOral histories of Chetak, Maharana’s brave stallion, echo through the streets of Rajasthan to this date, and his name is famous throughout the country.
Art Deco & Bombay—A Love Affair
byThe journey of Art Deco, from its beginning after the First World War to its decline after the Second, is short-lived. But it has given Mumbai some of its most revered architecture, loved and admired even today.
Bantul The Great: Narayan Debnath’s Loveable & Formidable Cartoon
byMany of Debnath’s characters spoke to his audience, but a hulk of a man with god-like superpowers, Bantul the Great, arose as a superhero for Bengalis during their time of need.
How Medieval Chroniclers Interpreted Solar Eclipses & Other Celestial Events
byThe medieval chroniclers saw wonders in the heavens as portents. It might serve us well to re-learn why, and to draw our own perspectives on the inter-connections of things.
Rooh Afza: A Symbol Of South Asia’s Shared History & Culture
byWhile carbonated drinks may have taken over, Rooh Afza will always evoke a sense of nostalgia among South Asians.
The Story Of Hosay: A Saga Of Defiance & Celebration
byThe Hosay celebrations recall not just the sacrifice of Hussein but those who were slain in 1884.
What The Buddhist Text Therigatha Teaches About Women’s Enlightenment
byContrary to other Buddhist teachings, in the Therigatha, the body is present in the enlightened experience of Uttama.
The Sikhs Had To Struggle To Wear Their Turban At Work & On Motor Bikes
byThe Sikhs had to fight hard and often go against the system to keep their turbans. Here’s a less known, fascinating story.
How Cornershop, A British-Indie Band, Rose To Fame
byCornershop’s ascent to fame was historic, as South Asians battled to establish their place in the world, particularly on the international music stage.
How Tea Trade Led To Opium Smuggling & Wars
byTea, the world’s most popular drink, has prompted international trade, drug smuggling, wars and abuse of indentured workers.
How Maharaja Ranjitsinh’s Friendship With Cartier Inspired The Statement Necklace of Ocean’s 8
byCartier & Ranjitsingh developed a friendship that resulted in a magnificent piece that inspired the Jeanne Toussaint necklace of the Ocean’s 8.
Why European Colonialists Employed Indian Artists To Document Botanical Specimens
byMany Europeans took part in documenting India’s natural history. Fine arts & scientific documentation had become synonymous, bringing about a distinct change in Indian artistry.