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

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Red & Black Handwoven Mirror & Thread-Work Table Runner

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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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Immortalized in the 1960 classic Mughal-i-Azam, with actors Dilip Kumar and Madhubala in the lead, the tragic love story of Mughal Prince Salim (Jahangir) & the court dancer Anarkali is well known. But is there any historic truth to it? Was there really a lady called Anarkali, condemned to death because of her affair with the Mughal heir apparent ? The Answer will surprise you.

The search for the truth, amidst layers of local folk lore and immortalized productions, must begin in the city of Lahore. Over here in heart of the city, you will find a simple Mughal era tomb, popularly known as 

in an area also called Anarkali bazaar. The person buried in the tomb is said to have died in 1599 CE and the tomb to have been constructed around 1615 CE. Inside, is an exquisitely carved marble sarcophagus with a couplet in Persian -

Ah! If I could behold the face of my beloved once more

I would thank my god until the day of resurrection’

Below that is the name of the composer, written as ‘

This is the only lead and the fact is that no one knows who is buried in the tomb. Historians also have different views. For centuries, locals in Lahore have believed that a beautiful dancer named Nadira Begum or Shari-un-Nissa, whose court name was ‘

 (literally translated - Pomegranate blossom), fell in love with the Mughal prince Salim (Later Emperor Jahangir). Most of us are familiar with how the story goes. The great Emperor Akbar, who disapproved of this relationship, is said to have had Anarkali buried alive in the walls of the Lahore Fort. A heartbroken Prince Salim, on becoming Emperor, had a tomb constructed on his lost beloved’s grave.

But many historians dispute this theory. While it is true that around 1599 relations between Akbar and Jahangir were at their lowest, with Jahangir even staging a rebellion against his father in 1600 CE, there is no contemporary account or reference to any lady called Anarkali - even in Jahangir’s autobiography, ‘

 which covers his life from 1605 to 1622. In it, he is extremely candid about his feelings and gives a fairly accurate account of his life and happenings. He pens his thoughts on various subjects from the exotic Turkey bird he had specially imported from South America to several rants against the Siddi General of Deccan – Malik Ambar ( who he calls ‘

). Yet, there is no reference to Anarkali, or how deeply affected he was by her death, or the fact that he built a tomb in her honour.

Anarkali, finds no mention in any other account of the period either. There is no mention about her in the works of Akbar’s friend and biographer Abul Fazl who wrote the 

An alternative explanation to the tomb was also propounded by 18th century Lahore historians such as Abdullah Chagati and Muhammad Baqir, the author of 

 . They claimed that the area, where the tomb is, was originally a site of a pomegranate garden named 

Bagh Anarkali (The Garden of Pomegranate blossom)

, in which there was an unnamed tomb . Over centuries, local people, based on hearsay, created a elaborate story around it.

The French historian Alain Desoulires, an expert on the history of Urdu literature, in his research paper ‘

Historical Fiction and Style: The Case of Anarkali’

 has traced the origin of Anarkali’s story to the accounts of different 17th century English travelers to Lahore such as William Finch, Edward Terry and Bishop Herbert. These travelers wrote of a supposed incident, which they had heard from the locals, where Akbar, had his favorite wife, also the mother of his third son, Prince Daniyal buried alive for having an affair with her stepson Prince Salim (Jahangir). Historically, this is untrue, as the mother of Prince Daniyal died in 1596 CE, three years before the person in the sarcophagus.

However, Desoulires believes the Anarkali myth based on the construct of an ‘

Oriental despot putting a fair maiden to death’

, which became popular and was especially promoted by the Victorians, after the revolt of 1857. It fit in well with the British imperial ideology, which sought to highlight the ‘

 rule of the Mughals in contrast to the ‘

But what took a local Lahore city tale based on hearsay to nationwide fame, was the release of a 1922 drama named 

, written by a local playwright named Imtiaz Ali Taj. This play was written in the style of the great Urdu romances, popular at the time such as 

 (1904). These romances had a common theme in which a beautiful heroine from a humble background falls in love with a man from a wealthy background, and the romance ends in a tragedy. Imtiaz Ali, who had grown up in Lahore and had heard the local legend, thought it was a great subject for a historical play. However, the first edition of the play, published in 1922, carried a very clear disclaimer that it was a work of fiction.

The play was a great success and Imtiaz Ali was very keen on getting a film made on it and approached several film studios. Finally, in 1928, a silent movie was produced in Bombay (Mumbai) called ‘

 by a Bengali duo named Prafulla Roy and Charu Roy. Following this, in the second edition, Imtiaz Ali Taj took the help of two local Lahore historians named Ghulam Abbad and Chirag Hassan, to add some embellishments and soon the lines between historical fact and fiction began to get blurred. Imtiaz Ali, to give a face to his legendary heroine Anarkali, also requested his close friend and noted painted AR Chugtai, to paint a portrait of Anarkali, which was also printed in the 1931 edition as a cover image.

From then on, the story of Anarkali took a life of its own. Movies on Anarkali were produced in 1935, 1953 and the finally, the most famous of them all, K. Asif’s 1960 movie ‘Mughal-e-Azam’ starring Madhubala and Dilip Kumar. This went on to become one of the most iconic movies ever produced in India and is now an inseparable part of the popular culture.

Interestingly, the original ending was also changed in this‘

 to show a less tragic end. In the movie, Anarkali escapes via a secret trapdoor in the wall, because Akbar lives up to his reputation of being a ‘benevolent’ ruler . The success of Mughal-e-Azam, spawned a whole series of regional language version of this classic.

It is amazing how a local tale from Lahore has now became etched in people’s minds, blurring the lines between fact, fiction and folk-lore.

Live History India is a first of its kind digital platform aimed at helping you Rediscover the many facets and layers of India’s great history and cultural legacy. Our aim is to bring alive the many stories that make India and get our readers access to the best research and work being done on the subject. If you have any comments or suggestions or you want to reach out to us and be part of our journey across time and geography, do write to us at Contactus@livehistoryindia.com

Did Anarkali really exist and is the famous story of her tragic affair with Prince Salim really true? Catch the real story...

The Story of Anarkali - Fact or Fiction?

Immortalized in the 1960 classic Mughal-i-Azam, with actors Dilip Kumar and Madhubala in the lead, the tragic love story of Mughal Prince Salim (Jahangir)  & the court dancer Anarkali is well known. But is there any historic truth to it? Was there really a lady called Anarkali, condemned to death because of her affair with the Mughal heir apparent ? The Answer will surprise you.

The search for the truth, amidst layers of local folk lore and immortalized productions, must begin in the city of Lahore. Over here in heart of the city, you will find a simple Mughal era tomb, popularly known as Anarkali’s tomb in an area also called Anarkali bazaar. The person buried in the tomb is said to have died in 1599 CE and the tomb to have been constructed around 1615 CE. Inside, is an exquisitely carved marble sarcophagus with a couplet in Persian –

‘Ah! If I could behold the face of my beloved once more
I would thank my god until the day of resurrection’