Places

Bhimbetka Rock Shelters, Madhya Pradesh

The Bhimbetka Rock Shelters in Madhya Pradesh are among the 10 oldest prehistoric cave painting sites in the world. Some of these paintings are

Culture, History, Mythology, Places

Chausath Yogini Temple | Mitaoli

The yoginis are at once, both alluring and fearsome. They had special, circular temples built for their worship, the nature of which remained esoteric.

Culture, History, Mythology, Places, Religions

Ahobilam | Andhra Pradesh

Narasimha, the fierce half-lion, half-human form of Vishnu, is usually remembered for his wrath. But did you know there’s also a legend of him

History, Places

Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary | Kakinada

About 200 years ago, the city of Kakinada rose from the ruins of a once-thriving seaport of Coringa that was destroyed by one of

Culture, History, Places

The Discovery of Chola Murals | Brihadisvara Temple

In 1931, a history professor decided to explore a narrow corridor on the 1st floor of the Brihadisvara temple. There, under a layer of

Culture, History, Places

The Andhra town that dressed the world | Pedana

What links a quiet Andhra town to the global fashion boom of the 17th century? Kalamkari and Chintz – intricate, handcrafted textiles that

History, People, Places

Did you know that Yale University was built on donations made from ill-gotten wealth, largely from slave trade in the 17th century? Madras or present-day Chennai is where the University’s benefactor, Elihu Yale, made much of his money.

Culture, Places, Religions

The Celestial Wedding That United a Town | The Chithirai Festival, Madurai

Every year in April-May, tens of thousands of people visit Madurai to take part in the Chithirai festival. Huge, colourful chariots are drawn through the streets of Madurai in a re-enactment of the celestial wedding of Lord Sundareshwarar and Goddess Meenakshi. The festivities are centred around two ancient temples, the Kallazhagar temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and the Meenakshi temple dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi. But did you know that the festival in its current form was the creation of a king Thirumalai Nayak, who ruled over Madurai in the 17th century? What is the story behind this grand festival that connects two prominent temples and brings a whole town together?

History, People, Places

William Lambton: The Soldier Who Mapped India

The Great Trigonometrical Survey of India was the largest measurement of the Earth’s surface ever attempted. Apart from mapping the country, the project measured the height of Mount Everest, the tallest peak in the world, and even corroborated Newton’s theory about the shape of the Earth. This is the story of the man who led this massive project – Col. William Lambton.

History, People, Places

The Story of Bruce Foote: The British Scientist Who Discovered Madrasian Culture

Why is Robert Bruce Foote, an Englishman, considered to be the ‘father of Indian prehistory’? What is the significance of ‘Madrasian Culture’? Read on for the fascinating story of a man who made Madras an unforgettable name in anthropology.

History, People, Places

The ‘Mad King’ and the Mongols

The Mongols were infamous for their remarkable conquests that spanned a vast expanse of the world. Yet, they were never able to conquer Delhi, despite it being within striking distance. Why? The answer is most likely – Alauddin Khilji. The Mongols’ repeated attempts to capture Delhi were thwarted by Khilji’s resolute defence.

History, People, Places

The Loan Sharks of the Carnatic

One of the many ways in which the British East India Company gained control over various regions of India was by forging advantageous friendships with local rulers and getting involved in internal politics. And some conquests were made simply through financial wheeling and dealing…

History, Places

The Forgotten Fort of Sadras

Once a thriving Dutch colony, Sadras is an obscure town lost in the annals of history. Today, the echoes of its captivating past linger amidst the scattered ruins of Sadras Fort, where the legends of a ghostly Dutchman abound. Read on for its story.

History, People, Places

The Women Behind the Mughal Throne: The Story of Jahanara, Roshanara and Gauhar Ara

The women of the Mughal Empire were not mere ornaments in the imperial court. They were educated, artistic and commercially and politically savvy, and significantly influenced government decisions even during Aurangzeb’s dictatorial reign. Read on for the remarkable story of Aurangzeb’s sisters.

History, People, Places

Begum Samru: The Story of India’s Only Christian Queen

Begum Samru was the first (and last) Catholic queen in India. Despite being an orphan and later a widow, she defied all odds as she became the ruler of Sardhana in Uttar Pradesh during a tumultuous time in the country. With her political acumen and military prowess, she emerged victorious in several significant battles. Read on to explore her remarkable story.

History, People, Places

Rani Abbakka: A Reign of Steel and Spice

Centuries before the anti-colonial resistance in India, Rani Abbakka Chowta fought valiantly against Portuguese colonisation. As the queen of Ullal, she resisted the Portuguese navy's oppressive tactics, forged alliances, led a guerrilla army, and even eliminated their admiral. The tales of Abbakka's bravery live on in folklore and performing arts. Read on to know more about one of India's first female freedom fighters.