Asia History
Manu S. Pillai: A history of the insults, expletives and slurs that shaped politics and society
From Akbar and Aurangzeb to Martin Luther and modern politicians, a look at the long history of insults, expletives and abusive language across societies
5 min read12 Sep 2026Manu S. Pillai: The hidden history of eunuchs in India’s royal courts
From royal harem guards to powerful tax farmers and kingmakers, eunuchs shaped India’s political history for centuries, navigating a world of extreme institutional dependence and personal trauma
5 min read9 May 2026Urban planning for the future? Look at the past, at Rajasthan's architecture
Jaipur's enduring architecture, built 300 years ago, exemplifies foresight in urban planning. At the sidelines of Mint's The Alt View, Rajasthan's Dy CM Diya Kumari emphasised that modern architects must integrate sustainability and cultural heritage, while inspiring imagination in their designs.
3 min read20 Apr 2026World Cup winner to prisoner: Can cricket’s ideals of dignity and rivalry reshape how Pakistan treats Imran Khan?
Imran Khan’s fall from World Cup hero to jailed former prime minister has drawn an extraordinary response—from rival cricket captains invoking the game’s moral code. Their appeal raises a larger question: can cricket’s ideals of fair play and dignity influence how power is exercised off the field?
3 min read27 Feb 2026Manu S. Pillai: A secret history of the toilet, from assassins to ‘poop suitcases’
Defecation is the one essential, unavoidable part of life that strips away social pretensions, teaching us a basic humility about our place in the world—even on the highest of thrones.
5 min read14 Feb 2026What it takes to live a consequential life: Do good, love truly and keep trying
Status, time or place do not limit the ability to lead a meaningful life. Even failed efforts, small roles and forgotten moments can carry weight, shaping others through integrity, curiosity and the pursuit of justice—without recognition, power or the certainty of success.
4 min read24 Dec 2025Who was Raja Ravi Varma’s son? The lost story of India’s forgotten artist
As auction prices for Ravi Varma go through the roof, his son Rama Varma’s art finds new appreciation, strangely mirroring the dynamic they shared while they lived
8 min read8 Nov 2025Manu S. Pillai: Facial hair as a symbol of identity and resistance in Indian history
Across centuries, Indian facial hair has meant more than masculinity—symbolising status, sparking revolt, and surviving cultural policing
5 min read11 Oct 2025Manu S. Pillai: How gossip shaped dynasties and destroyed reputations
More than just idle chatter, gossip has a powerful history as a tool of statecraft and a means to start wars and destroy reputations.
5 min read13 Sep 2025The Vietnam war made American culture bolder and more varied
The conflict, which ended 50 years ago, precipitated new styles of music and film
6 min read10 Jul 2025Wait for it…
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