Author: G W Forrest
Publisher: English Edition Publishers
Year: 1999
Language: English
Pages: 354
ISBN/UPC (if available): 8187285125
Description
Reading this book would be like taking a stroll down memory lane and, in the process, making several enchanting discoveries, both corporeal and aesthetic.
This quaint but informative book provides a peephole into the history of India by focussing on certain important cities of the vast subcontinent. These cities have been witness to the ebbs and flows of the tides of history and each city has a fascinating saga to unravel.
The author, Director of Records, Government of India, during the heyday of the Raj, maintained valuable records, and basing on these has attempted to recapture the spirit of the ethos of the times gone by through a riveting narrative which contains profound insights. His vision spans not only historical figures and events but also the renowned monuments associated with each city.
The author begins with Bombay and recounts various historical developments which transformed the city rapidly and decisively into a vibrant commercial center. He then moves on to Surat and Ahmedabad and describes vividly the evolution of these two cities. Next in succession follow Mount Abu, Ajmer, Jeypore, each city possessing its unique identity.
After that, the spotlight shifts to Delhi, Agra, Fatehpuri Sikri, Lucknow, Cawnpore and Benares. Each of these cities has built up a treasure trove of historical significance. The broad sweep of the narrative then covers Calcutta, Madras, Pondicherry and Cuddalore. Here again, the author's meticulous eye for detail probes each city with the diligence of a master detective.
The text is profusely illustrated so that the reader can clearly visualize the textual matter.
This book will keep the reader enthralled and stimulate curiosity and interest to delve further into the subject.
Contents
BOMBAY
Appearance from the Sea-Occupied by Humphrey Cook, 1663
SURAT
Historical Interest of Surat
AHMEDABAD
Architectural and Historical Interest
MOUNT ABU AND AJMER
Physical Geography of the District
JEYPORE
Position and importance of the City
DELHI
Antiquity and Importance
AGRA
Its Antiquity
FATTEHPUR-SIKRI
Summer Residence of Akbar
LUCKNOW
The Rise of Oude –Sadat Khan – Shujah-ud-daulah
CAWNPORE
The lessons of the Mutiny – Situation of Cawnpore
BENARES
Antiquity of the City
CALCUTTA
The Sunderbunds – Hooghly Pilots
MADRAS
Aspect from the Sea
PONDICHERRY
Approach by railway-First experience of a poussse-pousse
CUDDALORE
Fort St. David-Ride in a Jutka-Collector’s Residence