colonial legacies

Delhi Gymkhana was a dispensation from the state to those who ran the state. But it served a function: a place for making deals quietly. The eviction order is today’s India telling yesterday’s India, your time’s up

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor's recollection of being expelled from Mumbai's Breach Candy Club in the 1960s has resurfaced amid a controversy over the proposed government takeover of Delhi Gymkhana Club. The debate highlights lingering colonial-era elitism and exclusionary practices within India's old clubs, with the Centre seeking to reclaim the Delhi club's land for defence purposes.

The Centre has ordered the historic Delhi Gymkhana Club to vacate its 27.3-acre Lutyens' Delhi premises by June 5, citing urgent need for defence infrastructure and public security. This move, stemming from governance disputes and alleged mismanagement, has shocked members and sparked debate over elite colonial clubs on prime government land.

A new book explores Indian archaeology's post-independence journey, highlighting the decolonization challenges faced by the ASI. It emphasizes Amalananda Ghosh's impactful leadership and discusses the ongoing issues of training and employment for archaeologists. The article also touches upon the potential of AI in aiding archaeological research and data management.

Alice Walton revolutionised art philanthropy by establishing Crystal Bridges in Arkansas, bringing world-class art to everyday Americans. Her initiative, Art Bridges, now partners with over 300 institutions nationwide, subsidising loans of masterpieces to regional museums. This ensures art's accessibility, transforming cultural engagement beyond traditional coastal hubs and fostering local programming.

In a vibrant campaign that blends art and community spirit, Kolkata-based restorer Mudar Patherya has already illuminated 125 architectural gems in his city. His latest project brings him to the renowned Khalsa College in Amritsar, Punjab.

Ancient pyramids are often associated with Egypt. However, the largest pyramid ever built is in Mexico. The Great Pyramid of Cholula, known as Tlachihualtepetl, is a man-made mountain. It has a massive footprint, dwarfing the Great Pyramid of Giza in volume. This Mexican marvel is often overlooked, mistaken for a natural hill.

An ancient dugout canoe, remarkably preserved for 1,200 years in Lake Mendota, Wisconsin, has been discovered. This invaluable artifact offers a tangible link to the Ho-Chunk Nation's ancestors, showcasing their rich culture and connection to the lake. Laser scanning technology is being used to digitally preserve the vessel, revealing its intricate craftsmanship and historical significance.

There is a lot that Darjeeling could learn from Champagne when it comes to protecting its legacy. As the 87 odd estates in the Himalayan foothills gear up to educate the world about their authentic GI tagged teas, we get a whiff of what’s brewing

Theatre review: Je Janlagulor Akash Chhilo

We should not view the state through a ‘Khalistan’ prism. This is a diaspora obsession, which does complicate India’s international relations, but has little to do with improving livelihoods locally