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Antique Collection India, a country with rich history and traditions, which is evident not only in its buildings and books, but also in its architecture, culture, lifestyle, food and what not! But did you know that you can own a piece of its rich history?Yes! It is possible! Thanks to Peepul Tree’s Antique Collection that would not only be making you discover the treasures of India’s rich heritage, but also would make you experience the splendour of India’s rich antiquity. Handcrafted by the finest Indian artisans, our Antique Collection is the reminiscent of the rich past which has been kept alive by them. Right from the Dhokra Metal Handmade Owl to Indian National Flag, our Antique Collection bears witness to the historical phases India has underwent. Our Antique Collection makes you unearth the past in the pursuit of embracing beauty. So what are you waiting for? Explore Peepul Tree’s Antique Collection today! Historical Collections Now Discover the Treasures of India’s with the Historical Collections of Peepul Tree. Our Historical Collections enable you to unveil the majesty of Indian Antiques. Handcrafted, eco-friendly and sustainable, our Historical Collections make the patron step into the Timeless World of Indian Antiques. Varying not only in their source materials and the products, our Historical Collections offer you a wide range of historical phases, that India underwent. Visit Peepul Tree to get the finest of its Historical Collections. Antique Pieces Those were the rare days, when owning Antique Pieces were mostly far from reality. But did you know that you can now actually own Antique Pieces in just one Click? At Peepul Tree, you can now own Antique Pieces ranging from different regions of India, source materials, that belong to different historical eras too! Be it the Periplus Of The Erythraean Sea Map from the Ancient Era to the Preamble of the Indian Constituion of the Modern Era, Peepul Tree offers you the finest of the exquisite Antique Pieces that would make you own a piece of India’s rich history! Antique Collection Online Now give a new dimension to your shopping of Antique pieces. Visit Peepul Tree and explore its Antique Collection Online. With our Antique Collection Online, you can journey through centuries, through which you not only embrace elegance of Indian Antiques, but also elevate your home decor too. The products offered by Peepul Tree’s Antique Collection Online enable you to discover the soul of India, making you embark on an antique adventure, also preserving History, and celebrating Culture. So what are you waiting for? Explore the best of Antique Collection Online only at Peepul Tree! F.A.Q.’s1. What are the care instructions taken for Peepul Tree’s Antique collection?For metallic objects under Peepul Tree’s Antique collection , for maintaining the sheen, clean regularly with a soft dry cloth. Keep away from moisture and abrasive cleaning agents. These handcrafted products that may have sharp edges. For silver objects, rub with coconut oil if heavily tarnished. 2. Why Should I purchase Antique products from Peepul Tree?At Peepul Tree, one discovers the allure of owning antique products - a captivating journey through time and history awaits you. When considering the purchase of these cherished relics on our website, one is immediately drawn to the following compelling reasons:Timeless Beauty: Pur antique products boast an unparalleled beauty that transcends the ever-changing trends of modern times. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, these pieces exude a sense of elegance, sophistication, and charm, making them stand out as unique additions to any space.Rich Heritage: Each antique product carries a fascinating story, a window into the past that connects us to the generations that came before us. Owning such items allows us to become custodians of history, preserving and cherishing the cultural heritage that shaped our world.Unmatched Craftsmanship: In an age when mass production reigns supreme, antique products represent a tribute to the skilled craftsmanship of yesteryears. These items were meticulously handcrafted by skilled artisans who poured their hearts and souls into creating enduring masterpieces.Investment Value: Beyond their aesthetic appeal, Peepul Tree’s antique products are true valuable investments. As time passes, rare and sought-after pieces often appreciate in value, making them not only a source of joy but also a smart financial decision.Eco-Friendly Choice: Choosing antique products is an eco-conscious decision. By purchasing items that have stood the test of time, we reduce the demand for new manufacturing, thus minimizing the environmental impact of consumerism.Unique Character: Unlike mass-produced contemporary items, antique products possess a distinct character and soul. The slight imperfections and patina they acquire over time add to their allure, making each piece truly one-of-a-kind.Emotional Connection: Owning an antique product can evoke nostalgic feelings and create a sense of wonder. These items often carry sentimental value, having been passed down through generations or acquired during significant moments in history. Conversation Starters: Antique products are excellent conversation starters. Their history and provenance can spark engaging discussions, encouraging the sharing of stories and knowledge among friends and family.Curating a Personal Collection: Collecting antique products can become a fulfilling and passionate hobby. As you acquire pieces from Peepul Tree that resonate with you, you begin to curate a personal collection that reflects your taste, values, and interests.Support for Heritage Preservation: By purchasing antiques from Peepul Tree, you contribute to the preservation and conservation of historical artifacts. Supporting antique dealers, collectors, and museums helps ensure that these treasures remain accessible for future generations to appreciate.In conclusion, purchasing antique products from Peepul Tree is not merely a transaction; it is an enriching experience that connects us to our past, enriches our present, and leaves a lasting legacy for the future. Embrace the allure of antiquity and embark on a captivating journey through time with these treasured pieces.

<h1>Antique Collection</h1>
India, a country with rich history and traditions, which is evident not only in its buildings and books, but also in its architecture, culture, lifestyle, food and what not! But did you know that you can own a piece of its rich history? Yes! It is possible! Thanks to Peepul Tree’s Antique Collection that would not only be making you discover the treasures of India’s rich heritage, but also would make you experience the splendour of India’s rich antiquity. Handcrafted by the finest Indian artisans, our Antique Collection is the reminiscent of the rich past which has been kept alive by them. Right from the Dhokra Metal Handmade Owl to Indian National Flag, our Antique Collection bears witness to the historical phases India has underwent. Our Antique Collection makes you unearth the past in the pursuit of embracing beauty. So what are you waiting for? Explore Peepul Tree’s Antique Collection today! 
<h2>Historical Collections</h2>
Now Discover the Treasures of India’s with the Historical Collections of Peepul Tree. Our Historical Collections enable you to unveil the majesty of Indian Antiques. Handcrafted, eco-friendly and sustainable, our Historical Collections make the patron step into the Timeless World of Indian Antiques. Varying not only in their source materials and the products, our Historical Collections offer you a wide range of historical phases, that India underwent. Visit Peepul Tree to get the finest of its Historical Collections. 
<h2>Antique Pieces</h2>
Those were the rare days, when owning Antique Pieces were mostly far from reality. But did you know that you can now actually own Antique Pieces in just one Click? At Peepul Tree, you can now own Antique Pieces ranging from different regions of India, source materials, that belong to different historical eras too! Be it the Periplus Of The Erythraean Sea Map from the Ancient Era to the Preamble of the Indian Constituion of the Modern Era, Peepul Tree offers you the finest of the exquisite Antique Pieces that would make you own a piece of India’s rich history! 
<h2>Antique Collection Online</h2>
Now give a new dimension to your shopping of Antique pieces. Visit Peepul Tree and explore its Antique Collection Online. With our Antique Collection Online, you can journey through centuries, through which you not only embrace elegance of Indian Antiques, but also elevate your home decor too. The products offered by Peepul Tree’s Antique Collection Online enable you to discover the soul of India, making you embark on an antique adventure, also preserving History, and celebrating Culture. So what are you waiting for? Explore the best of Antique Collection Online only at Peepul Tree! F.A.Q.’s 1. What are the care instructions taken for Peepul Tree’s Antique collection? For metallic objects under Peepul Tree’s Antique collection , for maintaining the sheen, clean regularly with a soft dry cloth. Keep away from moisture and abrasive cleaning agents. These handcrafted products that may have sharp edges. For silver objects, rub with coconut oil if heavily tarnished. 2. Why Should I purchase Antique products from Peepul Tree? At Peepul Tree, one discovers the allure of owning antique products - a captivating journey through time and history awaits you. When considering the purchase of these cherished relics on our website, one is immediately drawn to the following compelling reasons: Timeless Beauty: Pur antique products boast an unparalleled beauty that transcends the ever-changing trends of modern times. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, these pieces exude a sense of elegance, sophistication, and charm, making them stand out as unique additions to any space. Rich Heritage: Each antique product carries a fascinating story, a window into the past that connects us to the generations that came before us. Owning such items allows us to become custodians of history, preserving and cherishing the cultural heritage that shaped our world. Unmatched Craftsmanship: In an age when mass production reigns supreme, antique products represent a tribute to the skilled craftsmanship of yesteryears. These items were meticulously handcrafted by skilled artisans who poured their hearts and souls into creating enduring masterpieces. Investment Value: Beyond their aesthetic appeal, Peepul Tree’s antique products are true valuable investments. As time passes, rare and sought-after pieces often appreciate in value, making them not only a source of joy but also a smart financial decision. Eco-Friendly Choice: Choosing antique products is an eco-conscious decision. By purchasing items that have stood the test of time, we reduce the demand for new manufacturing, thus minimizing the environmental impact of consumerism. Unique Character: Unlike mass-produced contemporary items, antique products possess a distinct character and soul. The slight imperfections and patina they acquire over time add to their allure, making each piece truly one-of-a-kind. Emotional Connection: Owning an antique product can evoke nostalgic feelings and create a sense of wonder. These items often carry sentimental value, having been passed down through generations or acquired during significant moments in history. Conversation Starters: Antique products are excellent conversation starters. Their history and provenance can spark engaging discussions, encouraging the sharing of stories and knowledge among friends and family. Curating a Personal Collection: Collecting antique products can become a fulfilling and passionate hobby. As you acquire pieces from Peepul Tree that resonate with you, you begin to curate a personal collection that reflects your taste, values, and interests. Support for Heritage Preservation: By purchasing antiques from Peepul Tree, you contribute to the preservation and conservation of historical artifacts. Supporting antique dealers, collectors, and museums helps ensure that these treasures remain accessible for future generations to appreciate. In conclusion, purchasing antique products from Peepul Tree is not merely a transaction; it is an enriching experience that connects us to our past, enriches our present, and leaves a lasting legacy for the future. Embrace the allure of antiquity and embark on a captivating journey through time with these treasured pieces.

Dhokra Metal Handmade Owl Showpiece

Candle Stand in Bastar Wrought Iron | Handmade in India

Dhokra Metal Handmade Harappan Dancing Girl Replica Statue Showpiece

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Terracotta Harappan Peepul Tree Seal Replica with Frame

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Marble Coaster Set with Red Inlay| Set of 2/6 | Handcrafted In India

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Black & White Handwoven Cotton Table Runner

Red & Black Handwoven Mirror & Thread-Work Table Runner

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Handcrafted Home Decor For You

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Explore the ancient tradition and mythological story of Guliga and Panjurli, revered as daivas or bhutas in Tulunadu, as immortalised in the film Kantara. Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Tulunadu through this story.

Guliga and Panjurli - The Divine Deities from Kantara

The Divine Deities from Kantara

‘Ponniyin Selvan’ is a five-volume piece of historical fiction written by Kalki Krishnamurthy in the 1950s. Considered one of the greatest works of modern Tamil literature, the novel is still considered a cult classic. Catch the story here

The Real Story Behind ‘Ponniyin Selvan’

This Ramnavami, embark on a pilgrimage with us as we trace Lord Ram's journey across the Indian Subcontinent. From his birthplace in Ayodhya to the scenic Chitrakoot, where he spent time during his exile, we'll visit the many places associated with Lord Ram's life. Join us as we explore the rich cultural and religious heritage of India and celebrate the auspicious occasion of Ramnavami.

In the Footsteps of Ram 

India’s first Republic Day celebrations were far from the impressive show we see today. And guess what? There was no grand pageant on Rajpath. We bring you some stunning details that marked the day India became a republic

What India’s First Republic Day Celebrations Looked Like

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Your Gateway to Exclusive History Content one Story at a Time

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Did you know that St Xavier’s College at Park Street, Kolkata, had the first science lab for students in India? It was set up by a young Jesuit, Eugène Lafont, in the 1860s – a 28-year-old priest who wanted to make science education so exciting that he turned his classes into veritable magic shows and had people buying tickets to attend.

As we discuss the new National Education Policy and our vision of our children’s future, it is important to remember that the education system in India was not framed entirely by the British. In fact, while that colonial government’s main objective was to create a class of efficient English-speaking clerks and junior officials, it was non-British educationists like Lafont who made sure that, at least in pockets, Indian students had access to the latest information from around the world in fields like science and industry.

Western scientific ideas and instruments arrived on Indian shores courtesy these non-British Jesuits from France, Portugal, Spain, Belgium and Scotland. They had been building a strong base in India ever since St Francis Xavier first landed in Goa in 1542 CE. The Jesuit institutes were committed to imparting a religious, spiritual as well as a scientific education, and set up schools and colleges in cities across the country.

Among the pioneering and most prestigious institutions of the time is St Xavier’s College established at Park Street in Calcutta in 1860. This institute stated from its inception that its mission was to impart the best European education to Catholic settlers and to natives, and its first prospectus stated, “The course of studies is similar to that pursued in the great colleges of Europe.”

Among the greatest minds at St Xavier’s School and St Xavier’s College were Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore and physicist Jagadish Chandra Bose, remembered for his discovery of Millimetre waves and contribution to Botany and Biophysics. Bose graduated from St Xavier’s College in 1879 under the tutelage of Father Lafont, an educator who ignited his true passion for experimental science.

Lafont joined the institution in 1865, and apart from mentoring students, went on to become a catalyst in developing a blueprint for science education in Calcutta, in collaboration with Dr Mahendralal Sircar, a social reformer and doctor who championed the cause of cultivating a scientific temperament. Together, they laid the foundation of the Indian Institute of Cultivation of Science, the first scientific research institute built and managed by Indians and which influenced great Indian minds in Bengal and beyond.

Who was this young Jesuit who gave up his life in Belgium to dedicate himself to laying the foundation of science education in a faraway land?

Eugène Lafont was born on 26th March 1837 in Belgium. He completed his secondary studies at the Jesuit College de Sainte-Barbe and joined the Society of Jesus, a prominent religious order of the Catholic Church. He taught in Jesuit schools in Belgium and had a natural flair for the experimental sciences.

When, in 1859, the Society of Jesus decided to open a college for native Catholics in Bengal, Lafont was assigned to the newly founded St Xavier’s Institution (later St Xavier’s College) in 1865, as a science teacher. Being inclined towards experimentation, Lafont, then 28 years old, immediately prioritised setting up a laboratory on the college rooftop. It was the first of its kind in India and shot into the limelight soon after, in 1867, when he used it to make an accurate prediction about an impending cyclone.

The local authorities of the British government had missed it, and thanks to Lafont, immediate measures were taken and lives were saved. The incident made Lafont a weather forecaster for the 

, a weekly newspaper published in Calcutta.

Lafont realised that the way to lure students towards the natural sciences was to fascinate them with experiments. Being aware of The Royal Institution of England and its tradition of science lectures and demonstrations, he started organising weekly science lectures for the public, in which he demonstrated some scientific experiments. One of his first science lectures was on the magic lantern and it may well have been the first instance of a projection technique being used in a lecture in India. The magic lantern is an early type of image projector that used pictures—paintings, prints, or photographs—on transparent plates (usually made of glass), one or more lenses, and a light source. Lafont projected the magic lantern slides on a screen12 feet away.

Lafont started raising funds for his laboratory through these lectures (the lectures were advertised, and one had to buy tickets). He often travelled to Paris to attend science exhibitions and buy new equipment. His hands-on demonstrations and lecture technique ignited a passion for science in students such as Jagadish Chandra Bose, chemist Prafulla Chandra Ray and geologist Pramatha Nath Bose. When Dr Sircar decided to build the Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science (IACS) in 1876, one of its founding members was Lafont.

When a team of astronomers led by Pietro Tacchini from Italy arrived in Bengal to observe the transit of Venus across the sun on 6th December 1874, the Italian Consul in Calcutta entrusted Lafont with organising things for the visit. The latter suggested Madhupur (Muddapur, probably in Midnapore now) as the ideal spot for the viewing. The team carried out visual observations through a telescope and spectroscopic observations of the sun through a spectroscope.

Tacchini was very impressed with the arrangements and convinced Lafont to build a solar observatory to carry forward the observation of the sun, sunspots and peripheral observations both through the telescope and the spectroscope so that data could be compared with teams working in Italian observatories. This prospect of collaboration led to the announcement of the building of an astronomical solar observatory, the first to use a spectroscope, on the rooftop of the St Xavier’s Institution. Lafont began collaborating and raising funds for state-of-the-art instruments for the observatory.

But the collaboration was shortlived, as Lafont fell ill, apparently due to over-exposure to the sun. He passed on the observatory responsibilities to Father De Penaranda Alphonse, a physics teacher and his colleague.

At the end of 1878, Lafont returned to Europe briefly to convalesce, but with a promise to send more scientific instruments to his college and to the IACS. To everyone’s delight, he returned soon at the end of 1879, to continue his public lectures, demonstrating new discoveries like the phonograph, electric light, sewing machine and X-ray. His lectures became hugely popular and attracted lay people and intellectuals alike. His audience now often included viceroys and other dignitaries. In 1880, he received a generous donation from Maharaja of Alwar to buy more instruments.

A special hall had by now been designed at St Xavier’s College for these lectures and demonstrations. And Lafont’s talks seeded a popular science movement. Science lectures and demonstrations began to be held even in the Asiatic Society and Town Hall. Later, in 1894, in the Town Hall, in the presence of the then Governor of Bengal, a lecture-demonstration was arranged by Lafont to ensure that Prof Bose got due recognition as a pioneer of wireless communication.

It is strange to think that one man could do it, but with his passion, his unique approach to education, and his extraordinary communication skills, Lafont bridged the science education gap between East and West. He was often asked how he reconciled that other great rift – the supposed one between Religion and Science. He replied with candour that there was no contradiction between the two truths of life because he never pitted one against the other.

In 1904, at the age of 67, Lafont renounced his rectorship of St Xavier’s College but continued to take regular Physics classes till 1906. He was now slowing down, and doing fewer of his public lectures. Coincidentally, the last meeting he presided over at the IACS, in 1907, was the meeting where C V Raman, who would go on to become a world-renowned physicist, was introduced as a new member.

After a brief spell of illness in April 1908, Lafont went to Darjeeling on medical advice. He died there on 10th May 1908. He is buried at North Point Cemetery, not far from the town’s St Joseph’s College where, just four days before he died, he had enthralled students with a lecture-demonstration on the gramophone.

The institution Lafont helped build – now the prestigious St Xavier’s College in Kolkata – still carries forward his legacy, and indeed the legacy of the Jesuit educationists. Most instruments of his laboratory have been donated to different museums and since the college has grown and renovated multiple times with new addition of new labs, it is difficult to trace Father Lafont’s original laboratory. But Lafont’s rooftop solar observatory was most recently renovated and restored in 2014 and has been renamed in his honour. The IACS also conducts ‘Father Lafont Memorial Lecture’ annually in his honour. There, and elsewhere, the flame lit by his magic lantern continues to illuminate young minds.

Madhuri Katti is a Kolkata based physics teacher, heritage enthusiast and an aspiring writer.

 In the 19th century, a young Belgian priest in Calcutta turned science into magic and even predicted a cyclone from his rooftop laboratory. Catch the story of Father Eugène Lafont and how he laid the foundation for science education in India

Father Eugène Lafont: A Priest, a Magician, a Teacher

Did you know that St Xavier’s College at Park Street, Kolkata, had the first science lab for students in India? It was set up by a young Jesuit, Eugène Lafont, in the 1860s – a 28-year-old priest who wanted to make science education so exciting that he turned his classes into veritable magic shows and had people buying tickets to attend.

As we discuss the new National Education Policy and our vision of our children’s future, it is important to remember that the education system in India was not framed entirely by the British. In fact, while that colonial government’s main objective was to create a class of efficient English-speaking clerks and junior officials, it was non-British educationists like Lafont who made sure that, at least in pockets, Indian students had access to the latest information from around the world in fields like science and industry.