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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

Bastar Handmade Wrought Iron Candle Stand

Dhokra Metal Handmade Harappan Dancing Girl Replica Statue Showpiece

Silver Inlaid handcrafted Bidri Bangle

Terracotta Harappan Pashupati Seal Replica with Frame

Bastar Handmade Iron Tribal Forest Tealight Holder Showpiece

Terracotta Harappan Bull Seal Replica with Frame

Terracotta Harappan Peepul Tree Seal Replica with Frame

Dhokra Bankura Horse Figurine Showpiece

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The History Shop

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Scarlet Finely Embroidered Silk Cushion Cover

Sunflower Handmade Mud Art Wall Hanging

Bottle Green Handwoven Silk & Cotton Ikat Cushion Cover

Rust Coloured Handwoven Cushion Cover

Mustard & Black Handwoven Tribe Inspired Table Runner

White Marble Coaster Set with Red Inlay (Set of 6 with holder)

Desert Oasis Handmade Mud Art Wall Hanging

Violet Handwoven Ikat Silk Cushion Cover

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

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.

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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

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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 

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In today’s times, it is hard to see beyond the public perception of 

 or Islamic theological centres as being extremely orthodox and often hardline. Yet these Islamic schools have a layered history, going back over 1,000 years.

For those with a blinkered view of these institutions, here’s something to mull over: 

 were once inclusive, and India’s first President Dr Rajendra Prasad, social reformer Raja Ram Mohan Roy and Hindi writer Munshi Premchand began their education with 

This interesting snippet, the history of 

 and how they came to be perceived as representative of a fanatical view can be found in the recently released book, 

by Ziya Us Salam and M Aslam Parvaiz. Published by Sage Publications, the book looks at the history of 

 in India and also takes a critical look at the state they are in today.

 is an Arabic word for any type of educational institution, either religious or secular. However, over time, it has come to be associated with a place that imparts Islamic religious education. The world’s oldest 

 is situated in Fez in Morocco, and it was established in 859 CE. It still exists and has been incorporated into the University of Al Qarawiyyin.

 system was introduced to India with the establishment of the Delhi Sultanate. The earliest 

 in India is said to have been set up in Ajmer in 1192 CE, following the conquest of the region by Muhammad Ghori. The successive Sultans of the Slave, Khilji and Tughlaq dynasties patronised 

During the reign of Muhammad Bin Tughlaq (1290-1351 CE), Delhi alone was said to have boasted ‘one thousand 

’ with salaries paid from the royal treasury. While this is probably an exaggeration, it gives us an idea of how widespread and well-patronised the 

Muhammad Bin Tughlaq’s cousin and successor Firuz Shah Tughlaq (1309-1388 CE) was even keener to promote education and is said to have encouraged girls and even slaves to take up education. According to contemporary chronicler Ferishta, 180,000 slaves acquired an education in science, arts and crafts during this period. The Moroccan traveller Ibn Batuta also writes of 13 

 for girls, which were also operational in India at the time.

However, it was not as hunky-dory or egalitarian as it seems. Salam and Parvaiz, in their book, are quite honest about how the 

 (‘high-born’) or the people who migrated from Central Asia and Persia sent their children to these 

 and the children of lower castes and new converts were kept at bay. Even Sultan Ghiyasuddin Balban (r. 1266-1287) followed a strict policy of keeping out ‘low caste’ Muslims from any post in his administration.

was also extended by the Sultans of the numerous regional sultanates following the break-up of the Tughlaq Empire. One of the greatest centres of Islamic arts and learning was the city of Jaunpur, under its Sharqi Sultans. Not only did they build hundreds of 

 but encouraged scholars from around the world to settle here. Not too far behind were the Sultanates of Gujarat and Bengal.

 thrived under the Mughals as well, especially under Emperor Akbar. During his reign, there was a special emphasis on rational sciences. Iranian scholar Mir Fatehullah Shirazi, who joined his court towards the end of the 15th century, is said to have introduced books on astronomy, mathematics, medicine, natural sciences and logic. His pupils diversified to smaller 

 at the time, taking with them the new stress on rational sciences.

It was under the hardline religious scholar Shah Waliullah Dehlawi (1703-1762) that things began to take a turn for the worse. Waliullah was highly critical of rational sciences and began the move to restrict the syllabus to core religious topics. Then, the participation of a large number of clerics and 

 students in the Revolt of 1857 led to their suppression by the British.

 the Darul Uloom Deoband, was founded in 1866. Over time, the ‘Deobandi’ 

 spread across India. While they have been accused of being associated with extremists like the Taliban, the fact is that in 1919, a large group of Deobandi scholars formed a political party Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind which later opposed the partition of India.

Meanwhile, in the absence of primary education systems in India’s villages, many non-Muslims like Raja Ram Mohan Roy, Dr Rajendra Prasad and Munshi Premchand began their early schooling in village 

. Sadly, the authors point out, many of the 

We spoke to authors Ziya Us Salam (ZS), an Associate Editor with 

 as well as M Aslam Parvaiz (AP), Vice-Chancellor of Mulana Azad National Urdu University in Hyderabad. The authors shared with us their idea behind the book and their perspectives on 

What was the idea behind writing this book?

 appear to be functioning in a time vacuum as their syllabus and teaching methodology seems to be caught in a time warp. I visited a few 

 in Delhi and Uttar Pradesh and felt sad for the students there, who despite their best efforts could not hope to move up in life. Then we have our media, which appears fond of criticising 

 without visiting them. People know little or nothing about the working of our 

 and their functioning are not properly understood, and misconceptions are spreading due to the 'otherness' syndrome created by a section of polity and the press. It is the need of the hour to open them up to public scrutiny and make people realise the challenges they face.

 have gained a kind of ‘notoriety’. Why do you think they are portrayed negatively in the media?

 It stems from a society that is happy with easy demarcations of “we” and “they”. The media is happy to reproduce unfounded allegations of politicians as facts, which does a grave disservice to 

 It is to put Muslims in poor light and to alienate the common man from them. An exercise in exclusion.

Much has been said and written about the ‘Wahhabi’ influence on Indian 

 since the 1980s. What are your thoughts on this?

 The term ‘Wahhabi’ is a misnomer. What people probably mean is ‘Saudi’ influence, which is clearly evident in most places. One even sees some 

 (senior Muslim religious leader) dressed in Saudi cloaks as if it is part of Islam!

 I can't comment on a Wahhabi influence but the Saudi influence is clearly visible. In my childhood, I would see people wearing different types of caps, including the Nehru cap worn by both Hindus and Muslims, and the Lucknowi cap was adored by all in summer. It has been replaced by skull cap, giving a (pseudo) identity to Muslims. There are many other elements, such as an emphasis on rituals, religious orders, and an exclusive tendency.

 have been able to keep pace with the changing times?

, as I said earlier, are caught in a time warp. They have come too far from their heyday, when 

 produced some world-class physicians and mathematicians. In India too, we had a golden period when luminaries like Dr Rajendra Prasad, Raja Ram Mohan Roy and even Premchand studied there. Today, they are neither contemporary nor living up to their history.

 No, they are far, far from almost anything contemporary. This is the biggest challenge to be addressed by all of us.

 and the freedom movement. Can you tell us something about this?

 played a pivotal role in our freedom struggle. One must go back to the time immediately after the First War of Independence was foiled by the British. Soon after, Muslim luminaries realised that the struggle must go on. And for that, they had to be suitably prepared.

Thus the Deoband school came about in 1866. Here, in the 20th century, we had Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind. The Jamiat acted as a counter-magnet to the divisive agenda of both the Muslim League and the Hindu Mahasabha. It brought Muslims into the mainstream of the freedom struggle with the Khilafat agitation. Also, we had a number of 

 where our freedom fighters would gather to chalk out their strategy against the British. The 

 were anti-British. Most of them abided by the Deoband decision, which automatically ruled out any support for a separate Muslim state.

, their students and their teachers have played a very crucial part in the freedom movement right from the 19th century. This is a well-documented part of Indian history.

could play in creating modern, enlightened Muslims in India today?

 go a long way in creating literate Indians. Boys hailing from extremely poor families who cannot afford regular schooling often go to 

, and come out as scholars of Islam. Unfortunately, there is a clear division between worldly and this ‘other worldly’ education in 

. It hampers the professional growth of students. For years, they are told in their classrooms that they would be leaders of the world. Once they step out, they realise they are not equipped with the tools of modern-day living. The division between religious and secular education hurts them.

 They have the potential to be leaders because the people trained in 

' to lead prayers and address huge gatherings every Friday. But unless they are exposed to contemporary education and challenges, how can we expect them to guide the Muslim masses towards 'modernity' or enlightenment? This is what needs to be done to make this centuries-old system effective and relevant.

Join us on our journey through India & its history, on LHI's YouTube Channel. Please 

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

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

 Madrasas are generally perceived as schools of religious orthodoxy and sometimes even centres of extremist teaching. A new book titled ‘Madrasas In The Age of Islamophobia’  puts these religious institutions in perspective, reveals their former inclusive nature, and explains why they are trapped in a time warp