South Asia
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How Secular Is Art?: On the Politics of Art, History and Religion in South Asia
As an invitation to interrogate the secular modality of art, the book unsettles both the categories of ‘art’ and ‘secular’ in their theoretical and historical implications. It questions the temporal, spatial and cultural binaries between the ‘sacred’ and the ‘secular’ that have shaped art historical scholarship as well as artistic practice. All the essays here are anchored in a conception of a region, whether we call it South Asia or the Indian subcontinent – one, fissured by histories of partition, state formations and religious nationalisms, but still offering a collective site from which to speak to the disciplines of art and the knowledge worlds in which they are embedded. The book asks: How do we complicate the religious designations of pre-modern art and architecture and the new forms of their resurgence in contemporary iconographies and monuments? How do we re-conceptualize the public and the political, as fiery contestations and new curatorial practices reconfigure the meaning of art in the proliferating spaces of museums, galleries, biennales and festivals? How do we understand South Asian art’s deep entanglements with the politics of the present?Read more
£28.50 -
The History of Sri Lanka: From Sigiriya to Serendipity
Discover the amazing story of Sri Lanka, an island nation renowned for its vibrant culture, rich heritage, and breathtaking natural beauty. In “The History of Sri Lanka,” embark on a captivating journey through the ages, exploring the ancient civilizations, colonial encounters, and the country’s path towards modernity.
Delve into the enchanting origins of Sri Lanka, unearthing the myths, legends, and ancient settlements that shaped its early history. Experience the majesty of Sigiriya, the rock fortress of King Kasyapa, and marvel at the architectural wonders of Anuradhapura, the glorious capital of the Sinhalese kingdom.
Uncover the transformative influence of Emperor Ashoka and the arrival of Buddhism, which left an indelible mark on Sri Lankan society and culture. Witness the rise and fall of powerful kingdoms, the encounters with European colonizers, and the struggle for independence that shaped the country’s destiny.
Explore the diverse facets of Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage, from the golden age of Sinhalese literature to the revitalization of traditional arts and crafts. Immerse yourself in the country’s culinary delights, a fusion of flavors that tantalize the taste buds and reflect the cultural diversity of the island.
Uncover the economic development and global integration that have propelled Sri Lanka into the modern era. From trade and tourism to infrastructure development and technological innovation, witness the country’s journey towards prosperity and its growing role on the global stage.
Whether you are a history enthusiast, a traveler seeking to deepen your understanding of Sri Lanka, this book is a must-read. It will transport you to a world of ancient wonders, colonial encounters, and modern aspirations, leaving you with a profound appreciation for the beauty and complexities of Sri Lanka.
Indulge in the pages of “The History of Sri Lanka” and embark on a journey that will captivate your imagination, broaden your horizons, and deepen your appreciation for this remarkable island nation.Read more
£5.30 -
The House of Jaipur
The Jaipurs were India’s mid-century golden couple; its answer to the Kennedys, or Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip. Jai and Ayesha, as they were known to friends like Frank Sinatra, Truman Capote and ‘Dickie’ Mountbatten, entertained lavishly at their magnificent palaces and hunting lodges in Rajasthan—and in the nightclubs of London, Paris and New York. But as the Raj gave way to the new India, Jaipur—the most glamorous and romantic of the princely states—had to find its place.
The House of Jaipur charts a dynasty’s determination to remain relevant in a democracy set on crushing its privileges. Against the odds, they secured their place at the height of Indian society; but Ayesha would pay for her criticism of Indira Gandhi during the Emergency.
From the polo field and politics to imprisonment and personal tragedy, the Jaipurs’ extraordinary journey of transformation mirrors the story of a rapidly changing country.
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£13.80The House of Jaipur
£13.80