Art, Defanged
In the run-up to the 2024 elections, the films that hit the big screens, the books showcased on the windowfronts, and the music crawling into our ears, has mostly sung the songs of propaganda. It’s art without dissent; art that rages for the machine. By Karan Madhok
The Decline That Wasn’t
Popular historian Sanjeev Sanyal pushed the account of India’s intellectual decline post the Islamic conquests. In his research essay, Joshua Fernandes challenges Sanyal’s stance by presenting a connected history through a survey of Sino-Tibetan literature.
Vishesh Bhriguvanshi: Arjuna on the Hardwood
Basketball star Vishesh Bhriguvanshi won the Arjuna Award this month, joining a prestigious list of sporting greats. Here’s the story of the Varanasi-born baller, and what he represents for the less-celebrated sports in India. - by Karan Madhok.
Masterpieces Under Our Feet
How a collaborative effort of designers and weavers have produced a distinct—and evolving—artistic vision on Indian-manufactured rugs - by Karan Madhok.
Going Viral
Editorial: The coronavirus pandemic is one of the gravest emergencies of our time. Karan Madhok discusses why our response as a country will define the future of social humanity.