Randi ki Masjid: The Proud Legacy of a Courtesan
Old Delhi’s Bazaar-e-Husn once attracted many men from far and near, to the kothas of the beautiful and multi-talented courtesans who graced the place. In the early 19th century, the British administrator of Delhi, David Ochterlony, fell in love with one such beauty, Mubarak Begum, whose only legacy is now enshrined in a mosque, Masjid Mubarak Begum, commonly referred to as ‘Randi ki Masjid’.
In Honour Of The Enlightened One: Buddha Purnima
For every Buddhist follower across the world, India remains the most important centre of pilgrimage. The birth of Buddhism took place in the subcontinent, and the Buddha attained both Nirvana (enlightenment) and Mahaparinirvana (death) here, as well. It should not be surprising, therefore, that Vesak, or Buddha Jayanti, or Buddha Purnima is one of the most important annual festivals of India.
Easter Celebrations With a Blend of Traditions in Goa
In India, Easter is not as popular as Christmas, which observes people from all faiths engaging in celebrations. But in Goa, this auspicious day is celebrated with full gusto, much like in the West. Let us see how the Catholic Goans combine their local traditions with the European (Portuguese) style of Easter celebration.
HOW FREDERIC TUDOR BROUGHT ICE TO INDIA
The idea of an overseas ice business before the invention of refrigeration may seem like an impossible feat. But in the early 19th century, a young American man, Frederic Tudor, thought of launching a highly daring entrepreneurial project that involved exporting ice to India.
Ram Navami: Celebrating the Birth of Ram
Ram Navami is one of the holiest days for believers of the Hindu faith. It was the day when Ram, the seventh incarnation of Vishnu and the protagonist of Valmiki 's 'Ramayana', was born.
A product of colonialism?
It is believed that nearly every aspect of modern India is a product of British colonialism. Unfortunately, it is true. The British built roads, railways, industries, and many buildings that continue to remind us that we continue to live in an India, that is undoubtedly western in its designs. Indeed, the very map of India, the one we have drawn countless times in our geography classes, is a British product. How is that possible, you might wonder? Let’s find out.
Historical Charm of Old Delhi
The name Old Dilli or Purani Dilli carries many sentiments for the people who have resided in Delhi for a long time. Be it the bazaars of Chandni Chowk or the authentic cuisines found in the busy streets of Jama Masjid, Old Dilli has certainly lived up to its hype for any explorer. The origins of Old Dilli would equally fascinate people, given its rich historical appeal. So what is the historical story of this mesmerizing place? Let’s find out.
The Whistling Village of India
Our name is one of our primary identities. It is our name that connects us to our family and roots. But why is it that when we think about a name, the only thing that comes to our mind is a set of alphabets, that can be written down or verbally uttered for everyone’s convenience? Can’t a name be, let’s say, a tune or a song? Unimaginable and quite unrealistic, isn’t it? But what if there actually exists such a community of people, who use this kind of naming system?
Charminar: The Pride of Hyderabad
Charminar, literally translated as ‘four minarets’, is one of the most important legacies of the Qutub Shahi dynasty. Built in the Indo-Islamic style, this monument holds immense historical significance and is hailed as the architectural icon of Hyderabad.
The Howrah Bridge: A Journey Through the Years
One of the most spectacular landmarks of present-day Bengal and a historical legacy of British times, the Howrah Bridge does more than carry the weight of vehicles, goods, and passengers. Standing tall over the mighty Hooghly river for the past eighty years, the Howrah Bridge bears witness to all the changing times in Bengal—the best, the worst, and everything in between.