In India when we think of British colonial architecture, we generally picture the “capital” architecture of Calcutta and Delhi, or then hill stations like Shimla, which the British escaped to for large parts of the year to escape the heat of Indian plains, which apparently they just couldn’t stand! However throughout India in cities and towns large and small, there exist rich troves of colonial architectural heritage Continue reading
The idgah at Agra, a 17th c (probably) Mughal structure, is a better architectural specimen than most idgahs in India, which are usually nothing more than a tall, long qibla wall with arched niches. This one is more like a large Mughal-style mosque with prayer hall, and is set at the end of a large walled garden. Continue reading
We all know the story of the Taj Mahal, how the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan built it as the tomb for his second and favorite wife Mumtaz Mahal, and that it is one of the greatest and most expensive testaments to romantic love in all of human history blah blah blah. However, also in Agra lies (or lay) the tomb of his first wife, Kandahari Begum. And what a difference between the two tombs! Continue reading
Agra desi deco
Idgah, Agra
From a colonial-era building along MG Road, Agra
Serving a late breakfast and getting the tandoor fired up for the day, Raja ki Mandi, Agra
Got a chance to view the Taj at night, and though the monument wasn’t as “luminous” as I’d hoped, it was still quite ethereal. Here’s what I could capture with my camera.
During my walk around Agra’s old city came across this Desi Deco cinema hall (named Roxy of course)! I’m sure there will be more such examples in the old city! Continue reading
Some photos of my walk around (a small) part of Agra’s old city. I walked the area immediately north-west of the Jama Masjid. The area has a similar feel to Old Delhi, with most old buildings dating back to the late-19th/early-20th c. on an urban layout that is older still, with it’s roots in the 17th c. but much altered since then. Continue reading
Sarson ke Khet 