Stories written by
Blake Smith
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Hindostan was a prosperous part of Indiana in the 19th century. So why did it die suddenly?
Founded by American trader Caleb Fellowes, the town of Hindostan was a tribute to the country where he amassed his wealth.
Blake Smith
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Who was Prince Rajaram II and why is there a monument in his memory in Florence?
The prince’s sudden death during a European tour in the 19th century forced the Catholic Church and the city government of Florence to bend their rules.
Blake Smith
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Why France fell in love with an Indian female author after her death in 19th century
Resentful after a defeat in war, France found comfort in the words of a Francophile from a country far away – Toru Dutt.
Blake Smith
Trending
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We will leave India if told to break encryption: WhatsApp tells Delhi HC
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By mixing Carnatic and Hindustani, Mysore’s kings helped create a unique body of music
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View from Pakistan: Islamabad must be proactive and normalise trade relations with New Delhi
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Why is BJP wooing Bengali-origin Muslims in Assam?
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‘Be freed from what holds you back’: Poems by Buddhist women from the Murty Classical Library
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The French are weak degenerates: An Indian voyager’s account from Paris in early 19th century
While appreciative of French culture and art, Mirza Abu Taleb’s travelogue reflects his theories on empires and the concerns of the time.
Blake Smith
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How Mughal history inspired an American professor to weave a fantasy world that rivals Tolkien’s
Tekumel began as a complex role-playing game, and then turned into books.
Blake Smith
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Behind the Madras Observatory lie the imperialist designs of the East India Company
For the British, astronomy held the key to ‘the sovereignty of a rich and extensive empire’.
Blake Smith
Video
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Watch: K-Pop singer Aoora sings in Assamese as he collaborates with Nilotpal Bora in a new folk song
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Watch Anu Malik and Sonu Nigam’s impromptu performance of ‘Main Hoon Na’ at Farah Khan’s home
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Watch: Doordarshan newsreader faints on live TV in Kolkata owing to severe heat
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Watch: Spice Girls sing ‘Stop’ as bandmates reunite to celebrate Victoria Beckham’s 50th birthday
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Watch: Over 350 ballerinas come together to break the world record for standing on tip toes
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Europe’s aristocrats once celebrated (even forged) foreign ancestry
From the Roman Empire to the Renaissance, noble families across Europe insisted that they were not related to the populations they ruled.
Blake Smith
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From Mysore to Patiala, Indian royals coveted French craftsmanship in jewellery
India’s cultural heritage, scattered by invaders and colonial armies, is being reassembled for a global audience by a Qatari royal.
Blake Smith
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This Indian author wrote his stories in French. Is that why we don’t remember him?
K Madavane’s fiction in French explores the ironies of post-colonial identity.
Blake Smith
The Reel
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The story behind the ‘Kuch Kuch Hota Hai’ title track: ‘Just write very simple poetry’
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‘Juna Furniture’ review: A simplistic crusade against the neglect of senior citizens
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‘Late Night with the Devil’ review: A deft satire on the price of success
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Watch: In ‘The Big Cigar’, the Black Panther founder flees America through a fake movie
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‘Dil Dosti Dilemma’ review: A feelgood entertainer about young love and old ties
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How a translation mistake ended up making India a part of the Bible
Whether medieval Christians saw India as a symbol of evil or as the home of saints, the Subcontinent remained a source of fascination.
Blake Smith
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Writings of French Hindu who worshipped Hitler as an avatar of Vishnu are inspiring the US alt-right
Savitri Devi was born Maximiani Portaz in 1905.
Blake Smith
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Before Indiana Jones, there was another 'Orientalist-adventurer' who visited India
Abraham Hyacinthe Anquetil-Duperron’s most lasting achievement might be his particular brand of self-promotion.
Blake Smith
The Field
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ISL: Kerala Blasters FC axe Ivan Vukomanovic as head coach
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Archery, World Cup Shanghai: Jyothi Vennam and Abhishek Verma reach the mixed compound final
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Cricket: Former Pakistan captain Bismah Maroof retires from international cricket
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Athletics, Asian U20 C’ships: India wins nine medals including four gold on Day 2
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Badminton, Thomas and Uber Cup 2024: Two years on, Indian men’s team hope to defend crown jewel