Thanjavur – The Raja Gori Chatris
Raja Gori is a true hidden gem in Thanjavur. Also known as Kailasa Mahal, it is a complex of Maratha era royal funerary temples.
Read MoreCategory: History and Culture
HISTORY & CULTURE
It was the revelatory power of literature that first ignited my interest in history. Of giddying power and political intrigue. Of devastating destruction and undying romance. Of the successes and misfortunes of individuals and kingdoms long lost. Then, travel brought those stories alive in a way no school curriculum ever could, even with the most inspired of teachers.
My choice of destinations reflects my interest.
Sublime Chola Heritage – The Great Living Temples Of Thanjavur
All about the Thanjavur temple heritage sites of Brihadeeswarar (Big Temple), Gangaikondacholapuram and Airavatesvara temples that make up the “Great Living Chola Temple’ UNESCO ensemble.
Read MoreAn Amble Through A Storied Park – Lodhi Gardens
If there is one thing I envy Delhi-ites, it is the green oasis of Lodhi Gardens. Over ninety acres of unexpected tranquility to escape the gridlocked delirium of their capital city. The landscaping would be easy enough to replicate elsewhere in India (who am I kidding!). But it is the historic ambience, those omnipresent vestiges of Delhi’s storied past, that make […]
Read MoreThe Mystical Temples And Pagodas of Bagan, Myanmar
The Bagan temples and pagodas are the most enchanting part of a Myanmar itinerary. Here’s a detailed guide to help you plan your visit.
Read MoreMyanmar – The Shared Destinies Of Two Ill-fated Kings
This is a riches to rags story. Of the journey of the King of Delhi from his jewel encrusted chambers in the Red Fort to a tiny tenement in the by-lanes of Rangoon. Replicated, just twenty seven years later, by the ouster of the occupant of the exquisite Glass Palace in Mandalay and his exile to modest lodgings in […]
Read MoreChettinad – Painted Clay Horses Of Ayyanar Temples
Curious about the terracotta horses of Chettinad? Read all about the painted clay horses and the Ayyanar temples where they are traditional offerings.
Read MoreChettinad Houses – Mansions Of Merchant Princes
Curious about the traditional Chettinad houses of Karaikudi? Here’s all you need to travel to Chettinad and explore its food and architecture.
Read MoreThe Marvellous Mosaic Map Of Madaba, Jordan
The Madaba Mosaic Map in Jordan is the oldest aerial view of Palestine. Read all about the history and Biblical imagery of this ancient mosaic map.
Read MoreThe Twin Fishes Of Ayodhya
This story begins with a legend. From a 13th century Korean chronicle – Karak Sam Kuk Yusa – of the emergence of six princes from a clutch of golden eggs, descended from the heavens in a gilded casket wrapped in red silk. The princes miraculously attain adulthood within twelve days. Suro – the eldest – is crowned first king of the Kara dynasty and ruler of Geumgwan […]
Read MoreThe Mausoleum Of Akbar The Great
It is ironic that of the millions of visitors who flock to the grave of Mumtaz Mahal in Agra, few spare time to pay respects to her grand father-in-law, the third and greatest emperor of the Mughal empire in India: Jalaludin Mohammed Akbar (The Great). Akbar’s story is as remarkable as the man. Born in 1542 of Shia and […]
Read MoreGuest Challenge Symbolism: The Venetian Gondola
This post comes to you from Paula’s lovely photo blog – Lost in Translation – where I am playing hostess for her Thursday Special Challenge. The theme is ‘Symbolism’, and I have chosen to feature the visual metaphors inherent in the design of a Venetian Gondola……. Click on the link above or the image below […]
Read MoreThe Venetian Lions
Status was paramount in the ancient world. For empires as much as for ordinary citizens. The aura of power as important as the exercise of power itself. Visual imagery and symbolism went a long way in engendering that impression. And so it was that a maritime republic of the stature of Venice felt the need […]
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The Urge To Wander 