Welcome back to ILF Radio! In our previous episode, we were introduced to its long-standing history, the beliefs, the lore and mysteries surrounding this temple. We are happy to continue the discourse today with Deepa Chakravarthy on the temple's religious significance, the socio-political context and the relevance of its message to our modern times.
Links to key heritage sites from today’s episode:
- Layout of the Thillai Nataraja Temple complex: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:10th_to_13th_century_Chidambaram_Nataraja_Temple_plan.svg
- Nataraja performing Ananda Tandava:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nataraja_Temple,_Chidambaram#/media/File:Nataraja01.jpg
- View of the fort from the beach showing St. Mary’s steeple (date unknown)
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Fort_St._George.jpg
- View across the temple tank
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Thillai_Nataraja_temple.jpg
- File photo of Dikshitar Brahmin
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dikshitar#/media/File:Dikshitar_Brahmin_of_Chidambaram,_Tamil_Nadu,_India_(1909).jpg
- Procession of Nataraja’s temple car through the streets of Chidambaram
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Chidambaram_festival.jpg
Follow India Lost and Found on Instagram @indialostandfound, X (formerly Twitter) @IndiaLostFound, and Facebook @IndiaLostFound for more captivating stories of heritage sites. Let's ensure that the essence of our civilizational history is preserved for generations to come. You can also visit our website at https://www.indialostandfound.com/ to explore additional content and join our mission to uncover India's lost treasures.
Intro/Outro music credit: Dhaka by Kevin McLeod
Welcome back to ILF Radio! In today’s episode, we’re on a pilgrimage to the temple town of Chidambram in Tamil Nadu where the Thillai Nataraja temple rises in celebration of Shiva, the Lord of the dance!
While the earliest mention of the temple dates back to the 6th century CE. The construction of the temple complex as we see it today began in the early Chola period around the 10th century and it further developed as it continued to receive patronage from successive empires. Every square inch of its 40 acres is packed with profound symbolism and purpose. Its construction is a testament of craftsmanship in sculpture and metallurgy. Positioned in alignment with what was once considered to be the earth’s magnetic equator or “the sacred heart of the universe”, the design of the temple is said to resonate with the cosmic rhythm and is a metaphor of Shiva’s anthropometric form. It is our pleasure at ILF to have established Mohiniyattam dancer and oral historian Deepa Chakravarthy walk us through the past and present of these sacred halls.
Links to key heritage sites from today’s episode:
- Layout of the Thillai Nataraja Temple complex: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:10th_to_13th_century_Chidambaram_Nataraja_Temple_plan.svg
- Wood engraving from the 1870’s of the sacred tank and gopuram: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nataraja_Temple,_Chidambaram#/media/File:Sacred_Tank_and_Pagoda_at_Chillambaran,_India,_c_1870.jpg
-Golden roof of the Chit Sabha:
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Thillai_Nataraja_Temple,_Chidambaram#/media/File:Golden_Roof,_Nataraja_Temple_in_Chidambaram.jpg
- Natya Shastra dance mudras at the Thillai Nataraja:
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Dance_mudra_reliefs_at_the_Thillai_Nataraja_Temple,_Chidambaram#/media/File:13th_century_collage_of_Natya_Sastra_dance_mudra_on_Chidambaram_Nataraja_temple_eastern_gopura.jpg
- Nataraja performing Ananda Tandava:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nataraja_Temple,_Chidambaram#/media/File:Nataraja01.jpg
- View of the fort from the beach showing St. Mary’s steeple (date unknown)
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Fort_St._George.jpg
Follow India Lost and Found on Instagram @indialostandfound, X (formerly Twitter) @IndiaLostFound, and Facebook @IndiaLostFound for more captivating stories of heritage sites. Let's ensure that the essence of our civilizational history is preserved for generations to come. You can also visit our website at https://www.indialostandfound.com/ to explore additional content and join our mission to uncover India's lost treasures.
Welcome back to another episode of ILF Radio, where today we journey into the timeless world of the Ajanta Caves. More than artistic marvels, these rock-cut monuments are a window into the spiritual and cultural life of ancient India. Built between the 2nd century BCE and 6th century CE, Ajanta reflects the evolving traditions of Buddhism, beginning with the simple, austere Hinayana phase and later embracing the more elaborate Mahayana imagery. The caves are celebrated for their breathtaking murals and sculptures, which vividly depict stories from the Jataka tales, daily life, and the path to enlightenment. These paintings, with their refined colors and flowing lines, capture the essence of compassion, devotion, and artistic brilliance. Yet, over time, Ajanta faced decline with the waning of Buddhism in India. In this episode, we’ll explore these layers- faith, art, and eventual obscurity.
Glossary:
1. Chaitya – A Buddhist prayer hall or shrine, often housing a stupa.
2. Vihara – A Buddhist monastery or dwelling place for monks.
3. Avadanas – Legendary or moral stories illustrating Buddhist teachings.
4. Jatakas – Tales of the previous lives of the Buddha, teaching moral lessons.
5. Vinaya – The regulatory framework or code of conduct for Buddhist monks and nuns.
6. Nirgranthikas – Ascetic sects in ancient India, often associated with Jainism.
7. Ajivikas – An ancient Indian religious sect emphasizing fatalism and strict asceticism.
8. Mahasanghikas – One of the early Buddhist schools, emphasizing the transcendental nature of the Buddha.
9. Theravadins – Followers of the Theravada school, emphasizing the earliest Buddhist teachings.
10. Sravastavadins – A Buddhist sect known for its detailed Abhidharma scholasticism.
11. Māra – The demon or personification of temptation and death in Buddhism.
12. Avalokiteshvara – The Bodhisattva of compassion in Mahayana Buddhism.
13. Manjushri – The Bodhisattva representing wisdom in Mahayana Buddhism.
14. Bodhisattva – An enlightened being who delays final nirvana to help others achieve enlightenment.
Explore visuals from today's episode- https://www.p4panorama.com/360-virtual-tour/ajanta-caves/
Follow India Lost and Found on Instagram @indialostandfound, X (formerly Twitter) @IndiaLostFound, and Facebook @IndiaLostFound for more stories from India’s layered past. You can also visit our website at https://www.indialostandfound.com/ to explore more such journeys.
Welcome back to ILF Radio! Today, we’re journeying into the Ajanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled in the rugged Sahyadri hills of Maharashtra. Carved into a horseshoe-shaped gorge along the Waghora River, these rock-cut caves, dating back over two millennia, are a sanctuary of art, devotion, and storytelling. Within their stone-carved facades lie timeless murals, intricate sculptures, and monastic cells that once echoed with chants of Buddhist monks. Beyond their artistic grandeur, the caves embody a living archive of faith and imagination, where every wall still whispers the rhythm of meditation, ritual, and ancient creativity.
We are delighted to have Professor Seema Bawa, a renowned Art Historian who teaches at the University of Delhi. She has authored numerous books on Ancient Indian Art and religious art. Prof. Bawa brings to the table a wide array of experience in reading the ancient cave art and uncovering the beauty of these heritage sites. In this episode, she will guide us through the scenic landcsape of the Sahyadri hills and introduce us to the importance of this landscape for the Buddhist monks. Reading through the Pali cannon and understanding the majectic structures inside the cave, this episode will delve into the arrangement of the Buddhist monastic order which reflects in Ajanta.
Explore visuals from today's episode- https://www.p4panorama.com/360-virtual-tour/ajanta-caves/
Follow India Lost and Found on Instagram @indialostandfound, X (formerly Twitter) @IndiaLostFound, and Facebook @IndiaLostFound for more stories from India’s layered past. You can also visit our website at https://www.indialostandfound.com/ to explore more such journeys.
Welcome to a brand new episode of ILF Radio!
Today, we’re stepping into Raj Bhavan, Mumbai, the official residence of the Governor of Maharashtra. Situated at the southern tip of Malabar Hill, surrounded by the Arabian Sea and enveloped in dense greenery, this 160-year-old estate is as much a place of reflection as it is of governance. Beyond its ornate banquet halls and ceremonial rooms lies a space alive with memories, layered histories, and quiet corners that still hold the rhythm of ritual and routine.
Joining us is Mr. Umesh Kashikar, Public Relations Officer at Raj Bhavan for over 26 years. A passionate historian and former Research Officer in the Governor's Secretariat, Mr. Kashikar has guided countless visitors through this estate, offering insights not only into its architecture and legacy but also the lived-in nuances that never make it to official records.
In this episode, we talk about everything from the transformation of the British-era bunker into a museum of revolutionaries, to the understated presence of the Sri Gundi Devi temple and the challenges of balancing modern infrastructure with heritage preservation. With Mr. Kashikar as our guide, we experience Raj Bhavan not just as a political address, but as a living archive – one that blends protocol with pause, and history with heartbeat.
Explore visuals from today’s episode:
Raj Bhavan aerial view: https://us.images.westend61.de/0001985783pw/aerial-view-of-rajbhavan-back-bay-malabar-point-mumbai-india-AAEF30827.jpg
Official site: https://rajbhavan-maharashtra.gov.in
Follow India Lost and Found on Instagram @indialostandfound, X (formerly Twitter) @IndiaLostFound, and Facebook @IndiaLostFound for more stories from India’s layered past. You can also visit our website at https://www.indialostandfound.com/ to explore more such journeys.
Welcome back to ILF Radio! Every once in a while, at ILF, we would like to turn our attention from the famed monumental, religious and political legacies to the common citizen’s vernacular heritage. Today we visit the singular, stunning streets of Sidhpur in Gujarat lined with the Vohrawads of the Dawoodi Bohra community. The architecture of these mansions is a truly masterful blend of various European styles adapted to the traditional Bohra lifestyle through the hands of Gujarati craftsmen. A style which in every way is the best of everything West of the subcontinent, which makes Sidhpur a place beyond belief! ILF is delighted to have architect Zoyab Alihussain Kadi, here to deliver us the story from the horse’s mouth. Born a Dawoodi Bohra, trained as an architect who also turned academician, he has been instrumental in documenting the neighbourhoods of Sidhpur and has written three books dedicated to the cause of the conservation of these vohrawads. His prolific writing and talks continue to stir interest in the region’s fading heritage. He has also received a UNESCO Sahapedia fellowship to document the cultural and architectural heritage of Sidhpur. Along with three other concerned architects, he has set up the “SIDHPUR HERITAGE COLLECTIVE”; an initiative with an ambitious and diverse agenda to stir interest in the region’s fading heritage. Links to key heritage sites from today’s episode:
- Sidhpur from the lens of ILF founder Amit Pasricha: https://www.instagram.com/p/CwZkPq7v9Ae/?igsh=bmxrcHBxcmRocXdy
https://www.instagram.com/p/CwabLUjvUqI/?igsh=bTF0ZXh5NG1oNWVr
https://www.instagram.com/p/CwaE2QjPeAi/?igsh=cWJ4MjVwNWNpZWNi
- From the Sidhpur Heritage Collective:
https://www.instagram.com/p/C6PKSKqSfFz/
https://www.instagram.com/p/C6PKsN8SLpR/
https://www.instagram.com/p/C6gQIs2Sptt/
https://www.instagram.com/p/C6gQTZ4yy8o/
https://www.instagram.com/p/C-2q2pryw50/?img_index=1
- Information of the Sidhpur Heritage collective’s upcoming heritage walk
https://www.instagram.com/p/DAnzVOhSzTe/?img_index=1
Welcome back to ILF Radio! In today’s episode, we set sail to “the gateway of South India”, to the shores of Madras, presently known as Chennai, where in 1639, a small strip of land on the Coromandel coast was given to the British East India company to set up a warehouse for traded goods. On this unremarkable strip of land was eventually established Fort St. George – the seat of British colonial power in South India!
The establishment of Fort St. George was the cornerstone that laid the foundation for the city of Madras which grew into one of India’s very first metropolitan cities. The story of its development from an obscure fishing hamlet into the first British Presidency in India is quite puzzling yet most remarkable. We’re most delighted to have with us Ashmitha Athreya, operations head and lead story teller at Madras Inherited to walk us through this opening chapter of the history of Madras!
Links to key heritage sites from today’s episode:
- Plan of Fort St. George: https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/0/08/FortStGeorgePophamColonyJohnHuntMap.gif
- Artistic representations of the early fort on the Coromandel Coast: https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/f3/South_East_View_of_Fort_St_George%2C_Madras_-_British_Library_P942.jpg
-Tamil Nadu Legislative assembly building
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/b/b0/Fort_St._George%2C_Chennai_2.jpg
- Clive House
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/f7/Clive_House.jpg
- St Mary’s Church
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/7/72/St._Mary%27s_Church%2C_Chennai_%281%29.jpg
- View of the fort from the beach showing St. Mary’s steeple (date unknown)
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Fort_St._George.jpg Follow India Lost and Found on Instagram @indialostandfound, X (formerly Twitter) @IndiaLostFound, and Facebook @IndiaLostFound for more captivating stories of heritage sites. Let's ensure that the essence of our civilizational history is preserved for generations to come. You can also visit our website at https://www.indialostandfound.com/ to explore additional content and join our mission to uncover India's lost treasures.
Welcome back to ILF Radio! In this episode we explore the many mysteries of Akbar’s forgotten city – Fatehpur Sikri!
Fatehpur Sikri, despite being pristinely preserved poses a great puzzle to historians. There is much speculation and fantasy churned out of this city that survived only 10 years as the capital of one of the grandest empires of the sub-continent. While at first sight its architecture is unmistakably Mughal in its essence, there is nothing about it that is cliché. It appears to display a controlled sense of eclecticism reflecting a melting pot of cultures and philosophy, giving us a peak into the very heart of the emperor Akbar. But the enigma of Fatehpur Sikri lies within everything we don’t know about it, like secrets hidden in plain sight. ILF is delighted to be joined by Amita Baig, one of India’s foremost experts in cultural heritage conservation and management to take us through this most enchanting complex, and what makes it a place like no other!
Links to key heritage sites from today’s episode:
-Hathi Pol
https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1569879753195310&set=a.653506534832641
- Buland Darwaza: https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=890299481153344&set=a.653506534832641
- Jami Masjid:
https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1826156247567658&set=a.861961803987112
-Tomb of Salim Chishti
https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=10155652089914220&set=p.10155652089914220
https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=997244732038121&set=a.700475418381722
- Diwan-i-Khas
https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=860788824104410&set=a.653506534832641
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Diwan-i-khas,_Fatehpur_Sikri,_India_2.jpg
- Panch Mahal
https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1779262372257046&set=a.861961803987112
https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1779731692210114&set=a.861961803987112
- Anup Talao
https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=1023941927789098&set=a.653506534832641
- Rani ki Mahal
https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=874783132704979&set=a.653506534832641
Follow India Lost and Found on Instagram @indialostandfound, X (formerly Twitter) @IndiaLostFound, and Facebook @IndiaLostFound for more captivating stories of heritage sites. Let's ensure that the essence of our civilizational history is preserved for generations to come. You can also visit our website at https://www.indialostandfound.com/ to explore additional content and join our mission to uncover India's lost treasures.
Welcome back to Part 2 of our special Independence Day episode at ILF Radio! Today we continue to trace the course of the Revolt of 1857. Yesterday, we had seen how the flames were ignited at Barrackpore to relay a revolution cry across the northern and central parts of the subcontinent. The Siege of Delhi was a crucial leg politically, but in terms of tragedy, military strategy and bravery, the events at Cawnpur, Lucknow and Jhansi were on a league of their own. Akash Chattopadhyaya continues taking us through this gripping chapter in our history, how it ended and how the events of the aftermath laid the foundation for a future united and independent India! Translation from Urdu of Bahadur Shah Zafar’s couplet mentioned at 35:08: kitnā hai bad-nasīb 'zafar' dafn ke liye do gaz zamīn bhī na milī kū-e-yār meñ
How ill-fated is ‘Zafar’ (the poet), even in burial denied, A mere two yards of earth in his beloved’s haven. Glossary: Do gaz zameen – Two yards of earth. Links to key heritage sites from today’s episode: - Map of the Revolt: https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/5c/Indian_Rebellion_of_1857.jpg - Kanpur Memorial Church https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Kanpur_Memorial_Church.jpg - Sati Chaura Ghat or the Massacre Ghat, Kanpur https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/e/e6/Massacre_Ghat_or_Sati_Chaura_Ghat%2C_Kanpur_in_the_1880s_%281%29.JPGhttps://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Khooni_darwaza.jpg - Memorial well at Bibighar https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Memorial_Well_at_the_Bibi-Ghar_-_The_Indian_Mutiny_1857-1859_Q80542.jpg - Jhansi fort around 1857 https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:1857_jhansi_fort2.jpg - Gwalior fort https://www.instagram.com/p/CybMdQGSlhE/?next=%2Fenvywoo%2Ffeed%2F&hl=fr - Last days of Bahadur Shah Zafar https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Bahadur_Shah_Zafar.jpg Follow India Lost and Found on Instagram @indialostandfound, X (formerly Twitter) @IndiaLostFound, and Facebook @IndiaLostFound for more captivating stories of heritage sites. Let's ensure that the essence of our civilizational history is preserved for generations to come. You can also visit our website at https://www.indialostandfound.com/ to explore additional content and join our mission to uncover India's lost treasures.
Welcome to our special Independence Day episode at ILF Radio! Today, in the spirit of commemorating our 77th year of independence, we journey back to the landmark Revolt of 1857, back to the first seeds of revolution that eventually propagated our fight for freedom. In this two-part episode, we bring to you a detailed account of the status of India under company rule, the facts and rumours that sparked one of the most significant resistance movements in South Asian history. We are delighted to welcome back passionate historian and friend of the Podcast, Akash Chattopadhyaya, who takes us through a very thorough and nuanced exploration of events from Barrackpore to Delhi. In the first part of the episode we touch upon the status quo in the subcontinent around 1857 and are introduced to the Sepoys of the Bengal Presidency who spearheaded the revolt, its beginnings at Barrackpore and the events during the Siege of Delhi. Do tune in with us tomorrow, the 16th of August 2024 to catch Part-2 and the conclusion of the revolt. Links to key heritage sites from today’s episode: - Map of the Revolt: https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/5c/Indian_Rebellion_of_1857.jpg - North 24 Parganas district in Barrackpore, West Bengal where the Revolt started. https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:36_Middle_Road_-_Barrackpore_Cantonment_-_North_24_Parganas_2012-10-21_1028.JPG - Kashmir Gate C.1857 https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:1857_cashmeri_gate_delhi.jpg - Kashmir Gate today https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Kashmiri_Gate%28_front_view%29.JPG - Skinner Church, Delhi https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/St._James%27_Church,_Delhi#/media/File:St._James_Church_9.jpg https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Massacre_of_officers_by_insurgent_cavalry_at_Delhi,.jpg - Kabuli Gate or Khooni darwaza https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Khooni_darwaza.jpg - Delhi before the Seige https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/8/8c/Delhi_1857.jpg Follow India Lost and Found on Instagram @indialostandfound, X (formerly Twitter) @IndiaLostFound, and Facebook @IndiaLostFound for more captivating stories of heritage sites. Let's ensure that the essence of our civilizational history is preserved for generations to come. You can also visit our website at https://www.indialostandfound.com/ to explore additional content and join our mission to uncover India's lost treasures.
Welcome back to ILF Radio! In this episode we walk down the historical streets of Mandawa from the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan where every stone has a story, and every story is a journey through time!
Mandawa reveals itself as a tapestry of history, culture, and architectural splendor. This quaint town, established in the mid-18th century, was once a bustling trading outpost renowned for its grand havelis, each adorned with intricate frescoes that narrate tales of a bygone era.
We are happy to hear these stories from Mandawa narrated to us by Thakur Durga Singh, who hails from the aristocratic family of Mandawa. He has converted his family home in Mandawa into a heritage hotel called Dera Mandawa and plays a prominent role in the tourism of the region.
For our non-Marwari/ Hindi listeners:
Glossary:
Chowk (ek, do, teen) - Open court/ courtyard (one, two, three)
Karigar - Artist/ Artisan
Bhootha – Haunted
Lota : Round water pot, usually made from brass for ablution/ sanitary use
Angrez - Britisher, Englishmen
Saab & Memsaab - Sir and Ma’am
Gulaal - Coloured powders used for some Hindu rituals like Holi
Rishtedaar - Relatives
Translation for Marwari/ Hindi dialogues:
13:56 – “He’s just an ordinary rohida flower, he’s said to have no grey matter and is just handsome.”
15:46 – You had permission to be the walking buddy of Thakur Sahab or the billionaire Seth Sahab (Sahab meaning Sir) without any hesitation. You would greet them with a namaste, exchange pleasantries, and walk along with them. Groups of women, wealthy women, Brahmins, and people of other castes went into the sunset.
16:31 – “ Setha (a wealthy merchant) who is that?” “He is my friend! (walking buddy)”
17:12 – because old havelis and forts did not have any particular space left where you could fit in a toilet.
17:27 – “So, this is the story behind the Bhailas”
17:50 – Those of us who live in the desert become so happy when it rains, we say “let’s go have a picnic!”
18:01 – They employ the service of a chef. And they refer to the confectioners as “artists”.
18:13: How much ghee (clarified butter) should be used in the preparation of Churma (a popular Rajasthani dish).
18:16 – Brother, some people want to spend, some people want to save so how to ask the Seth openly how much ghee to add?
18:45 – If you add a small amount of ghee the churma is sad (crying), if you add a generous amount, the churma is happy (laughing). Essentially to clarify how rich to make the preparation.
19:18 – Brother it will be laughing only, why cry? Make it laugh, but be judicious with the amount of ghee. “And they say why does the god have tears in his eyes, only when the ox eats hay?” So when should you add clarified butter?” – (A Marwari regional expression)
20:25 – In every Marwari family there was an unwritten rule. A rule that had been conducted for century after century after century!
20:39 – They indulge in leisure and ease after their hard work.
21:51 – (taken over by) either the family astrologer or accountant…
27:26 – Today, in this climate, how much area will I be able to cover and I will prepare only that amount of wet surface.
27:58 – It’s written below - the flying ship (Literal translation)
28:22 – Small children, even right from the age of seven or eight would start learning how to create frescoes from experts
36:06 – Nowadays nobody sings folk songs anymore. And why does nobody sing anymore? Earlier the whole village used to bustle with the sounds of folklore at a stretch of 15 days. Now they go to school and there has been a cultural erosion where girls that go to school now consider singing folk songs on Gangaur festival as backwards.
40:06 – “What kind of a bride is she? I raised you with love and care, and look at what has become of you! Yet you don't feel like crying when you leave.”
44:54 - They were relatives, they were in-laws. (The Hindi word "samdhi" refers to the relationship between the parents of a married couple)
For visual references and further information on Madawa:
1. Official website of Dera Mandawa: https://www.deramandawa.com/
2. Instagram videos of Durga Singh Ji : https://www.instagram.com/reel/C8CkXphPV7Q/?igsh=bGR6ZDZkazRzdDJz
3. Painted walls of Shekhawati by Shri Aman Nath and Francis
4. The painted towns of Shekhawati by Ilay Cooper
5. Shekhawati : Havelis of merchant princes Edited by Abha Narain lambah
Follow India Lost and Found on Instagram @indialostandfound, X (formerly Twitter) @IndiaLostFound, and Facebook @IndiaLostFound for more captivating stories of heritage sites. Let's ensure that the essence of our civilizational history is preserved for generations to come. You can also visit our website at https://www.indialostandfound.com/ to explore additional content and join our mission to uncover India's lost treasures.
Welcome back to ILF Radio! Today we visit the Nahargarh fort in Jaipur, built in 1734 by Maharaj Sawai Jai Singh II when he established this new capital of the Rajput Kingdom.
Built on the ridge of the Aravalli hills looking upon the walled city of Jaipur, The Nahargarh fort was initially built as a place of retreat connecting Jaipur to the old capital of Amber. Symbolically enough, today Nahargarh still creates a link between the old and the new, where the modern inhabitants of Jaipur continue to enjoy strong ties with their heritage.
We explore this relationship between this impressive fortress and its people, past and present with Dr. Chandni Chowdhary. She is a passionate conservation architect with a PhD in Heritage based development strategies and is also the co-founder of Jaipur Uncharted, an organization that aims to promote the preservation and appreciation of Jaipur. As a proud Jaipurite, her experience with the famed city is one that's not just scholarly but a deeply personal one.
Follow India Lost and Found on Instagram @indialostandfound, X (formerly Twitter) @IndiaLostFound, and Facebook @IndiaLostFound for more captivating stories of heritage sites. Let's ensure that the essence of our civilizational history is preserved for generations to come.
You can also visit our website at https://www.indialostandfound.com/ to explore additional content and join our mission to uncover India's lost treasures.
Welcome back to ILF Radio! Join us as we journey to the great Mughal city of Allahabad, now known as Prayagraj. Today we explore a darker side of history buried within the burial complex at the paradisical garden of Khusrau Bagh.
The mighty Mughal empire enjoyed a grand time marked with tales of heroism, splendour and romance, notwithstanding a fair share of controversy and drama! Like many other Mughal heritage sites, Khusrau Bagh is home to a number of tombs - the final resting place of Emperor Jahangir's wife, eldest son and daughter. While the sandstone mausoleums bear all the splendour of typical Mughal craftsmanship, therein also lies a sordid story of succession, suspicion and sacrifice.
We are excited to hear these dramatic details presented to us by acclaimed writer, scholar and translator Rana Safvi (@ranasafvi). Rana completed her masters in medieval history from the prestigious Centre for Advanced Studies at Aligarh Muslim University. As a passionate believer in the "Ganga-Jamuni Tehzeeb", she archives her knowledge of India's rich cultural heritage through her books, blogs, articles and videos. Most notably her blog Hazrat-e-Dilli is a passionate account of the glorious history of our capital. You can also read more about the legends of Khusrau Bagh in her book "A saint, a folk-tale and other stories: Lesser known monuments of India."
Follow these links for a glimpse of Khusrau Bagh's stunning architecture captured by ILF founder Amit Pasricha: https://www.facebook.com/100052578100181/posts/1844926992357250/, https://www.facebook.com/IndiaLostFound/photos/a.653506534832641/1512592768924009/?type=3&mibextid=rS40aB7S9Ucbxw6v, https://www.facebook.com/IndiaLostFound/photos/a.653506534832641/1145289248987698/?type=3&mibextid=rS40aB7S9Ucbxw6v, https://www.facebook.com/IndiaLostFound/photos/a.653506534832641/1146910218825601/?type=3&mibextid=rS40aB7S9Ucbxw6v, https://www.facebook.com/100052578100181/posts/2050192721830675/, https://www.facebook.com/IndiaLostFound/photos/a.653506534832641/1146643938852229/?type=3&mibextid=rS40aB7S9Ucbxw6v.
Follow India Lost and Found on Instagram @indialostandfound, X (formerly Twitter) @IndiaLostFound, and Facebook @IndiaLostFound for more captivating stories of heritage sites. Let's ensure that the essence of our civilizational history is preserved for generations to come.
You can also visit our website at https://www.indialostandfound.com/ to explore additional content and join our mission to uncover India's lost treasures.
Welcome back to ILF Radio! Today we will be traveling back to the proto historic period, to the Harappan civilization, within the region of Kutch, where we find a small archaeological expedition that aims to unearth secrets at Kotada Bhadli. A small but significant excavation that may have foretold Gujarat's legacy as the "Dairy Capital" of India.
Today we have the privilege of hearing the story behind this settlement, delivered to us from the horse's mouth - Dr. Prabodh Shirvalkar, the archaeologist who has been working on Kotada Bhadli since 2009. Prabodh not only briefs us on the archaeological significance of this quaint discovery but also, explains how recent scientific advancements help us break down the chemistry between man and cattle from four millenniums ago!
Follow India Lost and Found on Instagram @indialostandfound, X (formerly Twitter) @IndiaLostFound, and Facebook @IndiaLostFound for more captivating stories of heritage sites. Let's ensure that the essence of our civilizational history is preserved for generations to come.
You can also visit our website at https://www.indialostandfound.com/ to explore additional content and join our mission to uncover India's lost treasures.
Welcome back to ILF Radio! Today we take you to the very heart of the garden city of Bengaluru, through its greenest haven in the midst of this bustling silicon capital - Cubbon Park.
We are joined by the delightful Dr. Meera Iyer as she takes us through a leisurely stroll through this 300 acre lung space. She is the convener of the Bengaluru Chapter of the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) and has authored two books: “Discovering Bengaluru- History. Neighborhood. Walks.” and "A Gardener and a Gentleman: Rao Bahadur HC Javaraya".
Through the famous “Parichay “walks of INTACH Bangalore, she has been sharing her passion for the history, culture and heritage of Bengaluru with the general public.
Cubbon Park, officially known as Sri Chamarajendra Park, speaks of a rather unique history, reflected not only through its many colonial edifices, but also amidst a treasure trove of priceless botanical assets which makes it one of the most recognisable and beloved symbols of this city that every Bangalorean calls home.
Follow India Lost and Found on Instagram @indialostandfound, X (formerly Twitter) @IndiaLostFound, and Facebook @IndiaLostFound for more captivating stories of heritage sites. Let's ensure that the essence of our civilizational history is preserved for generations to come.
You can also visit our website at https://www.indialostandfound.com/ to explore additional content and join our mission to uncover India's lost treasures.
Welcome back to ILF Radio! After a brief hiatus we are excited to bring to you a truly monumental piece of history from the Deccan! In this episode, we dive into the long lost legacy of the Vijaynagar empire, unearthed from the ruins of its illustrious capital, Hampi - one of the largest and most prosperous cities of the medieval world. Join us as we piece together a tremendous recollection of the “Golden age” of South India and its pertinence to both politics and religion today. We are happy to have with us again Dr. Pradeep Chakravarthy (@chakravarthypradeep_dr) to lead us on this immersive exploration. As an author with a PhD in the history of the role of temples in the socio-economic and political life of medieval Tamil Nadu, he is on a mission to help people use history as a critical tool to understand the gravity of present and future human behaviour. His immense knowledge on the history of South Indian kingdoms has been invaluable in assessing the triumphs and failings of the last great Hindu Kingdom.
Follow these links for a peek at ILF founder Amit Pasricha's experience at Hampi. https://www.facebook.com/662984219/posts/10151929172844220/?mibextid=rS40aB7S9Ucbxw6v,
https://www.facebook.com/662984219/posts/10160444783024220/?mibextid=rS40aB7S9Ucbxw6v.
Follow India Lost and Found on Instagram @indialostandfound, X (formerly Twitter) @IndiaLostFound, and Facebook @IndiaLostFound for more captivating stories of heritage sites. Let's ensure that the essence of our civilizational history is preserved for generations to come. You can also visit our website at https://www.indialostandfound.com/ to explore additional content and join our mission to uncover India's lost treasures.
Welcome to ILF Radio! In our latest episode, we embark on an enthralling journey through the hidden treasures of Agra, beyond the iconic Taj Mahal. Agra offers a rich tapestry of history and architectural marvels, but it is a city at crossroads between the old and the new.
Join us as we uncover the lesser-known gems and untold stories of this historic city with our insightful guide, Shantanu Jadaun (@heritage.hindustan). A passionate history enthusiast and storyteller, Shantanu takes us on a captivating journey through the labyrinthine alleys and hidden corners of the city, revealing its secrets and treasures.
Follow India Lost and Found on Instagram @indialostandfound, X (formerly Twitter) @IndiaLostFound, and Facebook @IndiaLostFound for more captivating stories of heritage sites. Let's ensure that the essence of our civilizational history is preserved for generations to come.
You can also visit our website at https://www.indialostandfound.com/ to explore additional content and join our mission to uncover India's lost treasures.
Welcome back to ILF Radio! We deeply appreciate your patience and understanding during our brief hiatus.
In our latest episode, we embark on an illuminating journey through the ancient streets of Varanasi, the spiritual heart of India. Join us as we unravel the layers of history and tradition woven into the fabric of this timeless city. From the sacred waters of the Ganges to the Lal Khan's Tomb, Varanasi has been a melting pot of cultures and traditions, drawing seekers, scholars, and sages from across the world. Our guide for this captivating exploration is Shagufta Siddhi ( @shaguftasiddhi ), an educator, art historian, and founder of the Ganga Jamuni Foundation. With her expertise, we delve into the rich tapestry of Varanasi, also known as Banaras or Kashi, where over 3000 years of continuous habitation have shaped its vibrant culture and spiritual significance. Through Shagufta's insightful commentary, we uncover the myths, legends, and timeless wisdom that have infused every corner of this mystical city. Follow India Lost and Found on Instagram @indialostandfound, X (formerly Twitter) @IndiaLostFound, and Facebook @IndiaLostFound for more captivating stories of heritage sites. Let's ensure that the essence of our civilizational history is preserved for generations to come. You can also visit our website at https://www.indialostandfound.com/ to explore additional content and join our mission to uncover India's lost treasures.
Welcome back to ILF Radio! In our latest episode, we embark on an enlightening journey into the world of temple architecture with renowned photographer, curator, and the founder of India Lost and Found, Amit Pasricha (@panoramist). Join us as we explore the fascinating exhibition titled "Sthapatya: Antifragile Algorithm," showcased at the Indian Art, Architecture and Design Biennale 2023. Amit Pasricha, one of India's leading photographers, takes us on a visual voyage through the diverse styles of temple architecture found across India. Through his lens, Pasricha portrays temples as more than just structures; they are the heart and soul of Indian civilization, embodying culture, religion, and way of life. Join us as we delve into the the timeless legacy of temples as storehouses of culture and repositories of faith. Don't miss this opportunity to uncover the hidden treasures of India's architectural heritage with Amit Pasricha's captivating narrative. Follow India Lost and Found on Instagram @indialostandfound, X (formerly Twitter) @IndiaLostFound, and Facebook @IndiaLostFound for more captivating stories of heritage sites. Let's ensure that the essence of our civilizational history is preserved for generations to come. You can also visit our website at https://www.indialostandfound.com/ to explore additional content and join our mission to uncover India's lost treasures.
Welcome to episode 12 of ILF Radio! In our latest episode, we shift our focus to the vibrant streets of Old Delhi to explore the majestic Shri Digamber Jain Naya Mandir. Constructed in 1807 CE by Raja Harsukh Rai, an imperial treasurer in the Mughal court, this ornate Jain temple stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the city. Join our guest, Abhishek Jain, a passionate advocate for heritage preservation, as he takes us on a journey through the history and architectural marvels of this iconic temple. Discover the unique blend of Mughal and Jain architectural styles that adorn the temple's intricate facade, reflecting the cultural diversity of Old Delhi. Follow India Lost and Found on Instagram @indialostandfound, X (formerly Twitter) @IndiaLostFound, and Facebook @IndiaLostFound for more captivating stories of heritage sites. Together, let's ensure that the essence of our civilizational history is preserved for future generations. You can also visit our website at https://www.indialostandfound.com/ to explore additional content and join our mission to uncover India's lost treasures.
