History

Sandracottus and Purushottam

The Greeks referred to Chandragupta as Sandrokottos (or Sandracottus in Latin). Porus, on the other hand, is the Latinisation of Poros, Greek for Purushottam.

Ashoka shines and shines brightly like a bright star

Amidst the tens of thousands of names of monarchs that crowd the columns of history, their majesties and graciousnesses and serenities and royal highnesses and the like, the name of Asoka shines, and shines, almost alone, a star. From the Volga to Japan his name is still honoured. China, Tibet, and even India, though it has left his doctrine, preserve the tradition of his greatness. More living men cherish his memory to-day than have ever heard the names of Constantine or Charlemagne.

The Pandy Mutiny

Pandy or Pandee was British slang for a mutinous sepoy. The derogatory term was derived from Mangal Pandey who shot two British officers in 1857.

Robert Clive, 'Clive of India'

The British had the gall to call Robert Clive 'Clive of India' as if he belonged to the country, when all he really did was to ensure that much of the country belonged to him.

India is not a melting pot but a thali

If America is a melting pot, then to me India is a thali — a collection of sumptuous dishes in different bowls. Each may not mix with the next, but they combine on your palate to produce a satisfying repast.

India is not an underdeveloped country

India is not, as people keep calling it, an underdeveloped country, but rather, in the context of its history and cultural heritage, a highly developed one in an advanced state of decay.

India is a strange land

India is a strange land where people are loved not because they have power, but because they give up power.

Holy Cow

Until around the 20th century, the cow was considered sacred (and beef taboo) in Japan, China, and other parts of South East Asia. It was also similarly considered in Ancient Egypt.

History