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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

Terracotta Harappan Pashupati Seal Replica with Frame

Bastar Handmade Iron Tribal Forest Tealight Holder Showpiece

Bastar Handcrafted Tribal Art Candle Stand

Terracotta Harappan Bull Seal Replica with Frame

Terracotta Harappan Peepul Tree Seal Replica with Frame

Dhokra Bankura Horse Figurine Showpiece

Dhokra Metal Handmade Ganesha Showpiece

The History Shop

Blue Sparkle Handmade Mud Art Wall Hanging

Rust Coloured Handwoven Cushion Cover

Mustard & Black Handwoven Tribe Inspired Table Runner

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

Desert Oasis Handmade Mud Art Wall Hanging

Hand Embroidered Mirror & Thread-Work Table Runners - Lambani Table Runners in Scarlet

Multi-purpose Wicker Basket From Kashmir

Black & White Handwoven Cotton Table Runner

Red & Black Handwoven Mirror & Thread-Work Table Runner

Lime Green Handcrafted Mirror Work Wall Decor

Handcrafted Home Decor For You

Peepul Tree Bestseller Collection

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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South Asian Masterpieces at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston

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Join us on unforgettable journeys week after week and meet those who are defining the way we look at history

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The Story of Mohenjo-daro

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Your Gateway to Exclusive History Content one Story at a Time

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Handmade Harappan Dancing Girl Replica in Dhokra Metal

MARBLE INLAY ROSELLE COASTER

Lippan White Wall Mirror

Far back in time, King Raghu, an ancestor of Lord Ram and ruler of the Ikshvaku dynasty, conquered the region of 

 (today’s Konkan) and with this, he completed his conquest of India, from Kamarupa (Assam) to India’s Western coast. The next in his sights was the conquest of ‘

But it presented a peculiar conundrum. Should he take the easy sea route from the port of ‘

 (Kalyan) or the perilous land route through the Thar Desert? After pondering this for a while, King Raghu and his army took the land route to Persia through Sindh and the Bolan Pass, before reaching Southern Persia. Here, he defeated an army of bearded Persian horsemen, and this was followed by his conquest of the land of the Hunas on the banks of the 

(Oxus) and the land of the Kambojas (Xinjiang province of China).

This fascinating snippet on the conquest of Persia, Afghanistan and Western China of Lord Ram’s ancestor is found in the epic Sanskrit poem 

 composed by celebrated Sanskrit poet Kalidasa in the 5th century CE. What makes 

 so fascinating is that apart from the exploits of Lord Ram’s ancestor, we also find very interesting snippets of information.

For example, it tells us that Persia was famous for its vine creepers (‘

). There are references to the cultivation of saffron flowers in Afghanistan ‘

which got stuck to the manes of King Raghu’s horses’ 

) in the Xinjiang region, to which King Raghu’s elephants were tied.

Amazingly, almost 1,500 years after Kalidasa, Afghanistan is still known for its saffron cultivation and Xinjiang for its walnut trees!

When we think of writers and poets of ancient India, the stereotype is that of ‘

looking’ people, who were unaware of the world around them and were prone to exaggeration. There has been a general tendency to use the accounts for foreign travellers to piece together life in contemporary India at the time. But so much can be gleaned about life in India 1,500 years ago, from food to politics, by studying the works of Mahakavi Kalidasa alone.

One of the most detailed studies on daily life in the times of Kalidasa was carried out by Banaras Hindu University historian Bhagwat Saran Upadhyaya, between 1935 and 1945, published as 

 (1947). By analysing Kalidasa’s poems and plays, Upadhyaya pieces together what daily life in India – food, politics, education and even entertainment – must have been like at the time. It is an invaluable resource for details on life under the Gupta Empire, during which time Kalidasa lived.

While we know very little of the man himself, we do know that Kalidasa was a court poet of Gupta Emperor Chandragupta II (r. 380-415 CE) and his successor Kumaragupta (r. 415-455 CE). Kalidasa’s surviving works that are available today consist of:

 – A love story of King Agnimitra and a servant girl named Mālavikā.

Abhijñānaśākuntalam – the love story of King Duṣyanta and a sage’s adopted daughter Shakunta.

Vikramōrvaśīyam – the love story of King Pururavas and a celestial nymph Ūrvaśī.

 – On the birth of Parvati and her life with Lord Shiva

 – Chronicle of the Kings of the Raghu dynasty

 – Description of the six seasons through the experiences of lovers

 – Story of a Yakṣa trying to send a message to his lover through a cloud

Each of these works, despite dealing with varied topics, is encyclopaedic in its own way. For example, 

 has unbelievably detailed information on the flora, fauna and the weather conditions of regions stretching from Ramtek in Vidarbha to the Manasarovar Lake in Tibet. Through the exploits of King Raghu, 

 describes the geography of India like never before. 

Abhijñānaśākuntalam provide details of food, culture, furniture, the education system, politics and beliefs of those times. For example, in 

, we find references to ‘Kheera’ or ‘Payascharu’ (Kheer/Payasam), while there are references to a sweetmeat called ‘

 (Modak) in all Kalidasa’s plays. In fact, in 

, Kalidasa gets really poetic and compares the parts of the 

Another food that finds frequent mention is ‘

) , prepared from curd mixed with spices like cardamoms, cloves, camphor and other fragrant ingredients cooked in milk and sugar. 

 states that the spices – cardamom, cloves and pepper – grew naturally in the ‘Malaya’ mountains of the South (Yela Mala mountain range of Kerala).

Kalidasa also makes numerous references to fruit trees, with the mango tree being mentioned most frequently. Apart from cereals and rice, Kalidasa also mentions meat and fish being eaten regularly. Most notable is the ‘

fish found in the Gangetic plains. A line in 

tells us that there were slaughterhouses and meat shops where meat could be purchased.

We also have references in Kalidasa’s works to the drinking of wine, both by men and women. Kalidasa refers particularly to three kinds of preparation of wine, 

 – extracted from flowers. The flowers of mango and red 

, we have references to the drinking peg (

) states that the entire army of King Raghu got drunk from wine extracted from coconuts! On a lighter note, there is even a cure given for hangovers, from overconsumption of wine.

, an unrefined cane sugar juice concentrate, being used by ayurvedic practitioners to cure hangovers.

Clothing is one of the least-studied areas of ancient Indian history. So it might surprise you to learn that, just like today, people dressed according to the occasion, 1,500 years ago too. Different works by Kalidasa mention hunting dresses, wedding dresses, special dresses worn by ‘repentant’ and ’ love-sick’ people as well as by those observing a vow. And these were quite practical. For example, Kalidasa, in 

a colour matching with leaves, so that the beasts might be easily deceived’ – 

Also, each region had its own style of clothing, including wedding dresses. For example, in 

the wedding dress which prevailed in the Vidarbha country’

. The men generally wore a turban, a scarf (‘vestana’) and a 

, while the wealthier ones decorated their turbans with gems. The clothes were in various colours such as white, red, blue, saffron and black and the fabric varied in hot and cold weather. There are references to both silk (

which says that that the finest form of silk was called

an allusion to the silk imported from China.

Kalidasa also refers to different kinds of ornaments in his works. The most popular form of necklaces worn at the time was called ‘

, made by stringing together coins called ‘

 – an earring set with a single precious stone. Several types of rings too find a mention, especially those in the shape of a serpent, with the name of the owner written on it.

Hair-styling and hair-dressing was considered a mark of class and culture and had evolved into a form of high art. Women scented their hair with incense from Agarwood or Sandalwood and then parted and knit it in long tresses. Flowers and strings of pearls were then set into the hair. There are numerous references to men and women decorating themselves with flower garlands on special occasions such as festivals.

we also learn about the cosmetics that people used in those times. Before bathing, people would apply what we call today ‘body masks’ made of various pastes called 

 These were made of sandalwood paste mixed with ayurvedic plants. After a bath, they perfumed themselves with musk.

there is even a reference to the ‘make-up’ that women wore. A special white paste was made, and it was used to paint their faces in various foliage patterns.

As a form of ancient Indian lip gloss or lipstick, women applied lac-dye to their lips, and then smeared over it a powder of 

We find numerous references to household furniture in the works of Kalidasa. We also read of beautiful seats made of ivory covered with white cloth called 

 was furniture made of cane. There is also mention of several varieties of beds, depending on their size. The most poetic is the description of 

), which was a set of bedcover, bed and bedstead, furnished in white ‘

 were an important item of furniture and were used as wardrobes to store clothes, toiletries and ornaments. We find a description of different types of lamps, household utensils and highly polished metal plates, which were used as mirrors. They were prized items.

One of the most important parts of the household was the garden, which supplied flowers for decoration and toiletries. As a result, the art of horticulture and gardening was highly valued. The gardens appear as a setting in most of Kalidasa’s works, and trees and flowers play an important role in their plots.

 are deeply attached to their trees and plants. Apart from private gardens, there were public gardens maintained by the government for the benefit of all citizens. Special gardeners called ‘

 were appointed to look after these public gardens and were paid by the state.

In today’s times, when there seem to be too many options for entertainment, it is hard to imagine a time when the swing was the most popular and accessible form of entertainment, for kings and commoners alike, in India. There were swings not just in private and public gardens, but even in the homes of the rich.

speaks of grown men and women enjoying the pleasures of the swing (

unmindful of the dangers being thrown away’

. In fact, in the same play, Queen Iravati requests her husband, King Agnimitra, saying, ‘

I wish to enjoy the pleasure of sitting in the swing in company with your lordship’

Theatre and drama was another popular pastime of common folk, even 1,500 years ago. Dramas were staged on festival days and also for private celebrations like birthdays and weddings. In fact, Kalidasa’ play 

was specially composed so that it could be staged on the festival of the Equinox.

Amazingly, just like today’s movie critics, there were special officers known as ‘

, whose duty it was to witness new releases (of plays) and report them to the king. A positive review boosted a play’s popularity and won it awards (from the King). There is a distinct reference to these 

Since music and dance too were very popular, there were ‘

 where professional training in music and dance was given to men and women. These schools were run by the state and the teachers received regular salaries (‘

). But, very strangely, while Kalidasa is detailed in his description of song and dance, there is no mention to 

Painting too was very popular. There are many references to the art of paintings and forms like frescos, portraits and landscapes in Kalidasa’s works. We read of walls of palaces and houses covered with frescoes, which were damaged by rain. But it is the portrait (

) that plays an important role in Kalidasa’s works. For example, Yaksha in 

 draws a portrait of his wife on a boulder on a mountain.

 In many ways, life in the 5th century CE was not very different from what it is today, down to fashion trends and antidotes for hangovers. Read on for some fascinating insights into ancient India, from the works of Kalidasa, one of the greatest Indian poets of all time. 

India Through Kalidasa’s Eyes (5th CE)

Far back in time, King Raghu, an ancestor of Lord Ram and ruler of the Ikshvaku dynasty, conquered the region of Aparanta (today’s Konkan) and with this, he completed his conquest of India, from Kamarupa (Assam) to India’s Western coast. The next in his sights was the conquest of ‘the Land of Parasikas’ or Persia. 


But it presented a peculiar conundrum. Should he take the easy sea route from the port of ‘Kalyana’ (Kalyan) or the perilous land route through the Thar Desert? After pondering this for a while, King Raghu and his army took the land route to Persia through Sindh and the Bolan Pass, before reaching Southern Persia. Here, he defeated an army of bearded Persian horsemen, and this was followed by his conquest of the land of the Hunas on the banks of the VankshuRiver (Oxus) and the land of the Kambojas (Xinjiang province of China). 



