Tag: India

India is a vibrant country with a blend of tradition and modernity, rich in history and cultural diversity, making it a fascinating and complex nation to explore and understand.

Map showing illuminated flight routes between Middle Eastern cities and Indian cities at night

Shadows on the Tigris, Ripples on the Ganga: A Tale of Oil, Empires, & the Price of War

On By Indrajit Roy ChoudhuryIn Muse & Musings10 Comments

In Erbil, mornings have shifted from the tense drone activity to a calmer atmosphere following a ceasefire. Despite this pause in violence, geopolitical tensions between the US and Iran persist, influencing global markets, especially India's oil-dependent economy. India's historical, cultural, and energy ties underscore its careful diplomatic balancing act between Washington and Tehran. Meanwhile, ordinary citizens strive to maintain stability in their daily lives amid ongoing uncertainty. This situation reflects the complex interplay of conflict, diplomacy, and economic reliance shaping regional and global dynamics.

The Calculus of Betrayal: Radhanath Sikdar & the True Story of Mount Everest

On By Indrajit Roy ChoudhuryIn Heritage & History10 Comments

In 1852, Radhanath Sikdar, a Bengali mathematician, discovered that Peak XV was the world's highest mountain, later named Mount Everest. His groundbreaking calculations were overshadowed by British imperial bias, as the peak was named after a British official. Sikdar's contributions to the Great Trigonometrical Survey were largely ignored, encapsulating the colonial erasure of non-Western intellectual achievements.

Saltpetre: The Quiet Crystal That Shaped Empires

On By Indrajit Roy ChoudhuryIn Heritage & History14 Comments

Beneath Bengal’s quiet soil once lay the mineral that shaped world empires—saltpetre. This unassuming white crystal powered Europe’s guns, fueled its navies, and altered global history, even as the people who produced it remained unaware of its immense value. In a tragic twist, Bengal’s own natural wealth became the lever that enabled its colonization.

Palaces of Mewar — The Splendor of Udaipur’s City Palace

On By Judhajit RoychoudhuryIn Journeys & Mindscapes9 Comments

We see the City Palace in Udaipur, initiated by Maharana Udai Singh II in 1559, as a monumental display of Mewar's history, combining Rajput, Mughal, and European architectural styles. We witness valorous artifacts, artistic frescoes, and the royal family's ongoing legacy, culminating in a rich cultural experience and unique souvenirs symbolizing the region's heritage.

The Journey to Udaipur — From Ranchi Skies to Lake City Nights

On By Judhajit RoychoudhuryIn Journeys & Mindscapes6 Comments

The trip from Ranchi to Udaipur started with a feeling of anticipation. At Delhi’s busy airport, we stopped to enjoy a good meal before catching my connecting flight. Arriving in Udaipur felt like entering a peaceful place after the hustle—the airport was calm and almost tranquil. After a brief drive, we checked into our hotel and began planning the next day’s activities. The plan was straightforward but exciting: a motorbike tour through Udaipur’s charm, exploring its winding streets and hidden spots waiting to be uncovered.