Read Short Articles Featuring the Hidden Stories of India- Storytrails

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.

Culture, History, People, Religions

The Story of Karaikal Ammaiyar

The 63 Nayanmars – poet-saints devoted to Shiva – were among the earliest ambassadors of the Bhakti movement. Karaikal Ammaiyar was one of the three women who were part of the group. Once a great beauty, she is usually depicted as a ‘ghoul’, apparently a form she begged to be blessed with! This is her story.

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.

Culture, History

The Sengol, the Sceptre and Shifting Symbolism

The Sengol may or may not have a place in contemporary India, but historically it was considered as a symbol of righteousness and justice, to be wielded only by a worthy leader. Interestingly, the British Crown Jewels also include a sceptre – not untainted by controversy. Read on for the story of the Indian Sengol and the British sceptre.

History, People, Places

The Cholas as Hydraulic Engineers

The Cholas were known to be passionate patrons of art and culture - and a number of grand temples in Tamil Nadu stand testament to that. But did you know that they also invested heavily in water resource projects? Some of those waterbodies still exist today.

History, People, Places

The Ice King, the Ice Doctor, and the Ice War: The Story of Frederic Tudor

Thanks to a maverick American, Chennai was importing ice from the US even before refrigeration was invented! This is the cool story of the 'Ice King' – Frederic Tudor.

Culture, History, People

The Other Great Rajas of the Chola Dynasty

The Cholas were one of the longest reigning dynasties in Indian history. And while Rajaraja is probably the most well known, he was only one among the many great Chola kings. How well do you know the other Chola emperors and their feats? Read on to find out.

Culture, History, People

Women of the Imperial Chola Era

The women in Kalki Krishnamurthy’s magnum opus, Ponniyin Selvan, are feisty, independent and influential. But what about the real-life figures that inspired these fictional characters? What kind of lives did they lead and what was their role in the shaping of Chola history? Read on to know more.

Culture, History, Religions

Following the Lotus Around the World

Why is the lotus held sacred in Hinduism and other religions and cultures around the world? This story explores the significance of the lotus as a sacred and mystical symbol across geographies.

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