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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.

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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.

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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.

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How do ancient sites and historic monuments suddenly go missing, among them archaeological wonders such as the Telia Nala Buddhist site in Varanasi , the Kos Minars along the Grand Trunk road in Haryana and Cannons of Sher Shah Suri in Tinsukia, Assam have in common ? The mystery resurfaced on 8th August 2022, when Union Culture Minister G Kishan Reddy in a written response to a question in the Lok Sabha told Parliament that 24 monuments and sites in India are “untraceable”.

How do monuments listed by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) just vanish?

Almost every year since 2013, stories of ‘missing monuments’ have been making headlines. Oddly, even though Parliament has been informed of missing monuments in 2013, 2016, 2017, 2020 and now in 2022, nothing seems to stop them from vanishing.

What is equally surprising is that we don’t know what exactly ‘missing’ or ‘untraceable’ means. For the last nine years, neither the Ministry of Culture nor the ASI has defined ‘missing’ or ‘untraceable’. Have they been encroached upon or demolished? Or was it an erroneous listing that was later deleted? Or is it just that there has been no physical verification? All that the Lok Sabha has been told is that efforts are being made to ‘trace’ these monuments using old records and satellite technology.

The issue of missing monuments first came to light when the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) published a report in 2013 titled 

Performance Audit of Preservation and Conservation of Monuments and Antiquities of Union Government, Ministry of Culture

. It raised alarming statistics - 92 ASI listed historic monuments were reported missing.

In April 2016 and then again in August 2017, the Ministry of Culture, in two separate replies to the Lok Sabha, informed Parliament that of the 92 missing monuments, 24 remained “untraceable”; 14 were affected due to rapid urbanisation; and 12 had been submerged under reservoirs created by dams.

In August 2022, nine years after its original report (2013) on the workings of the ASI, the CAG released a fresh report titled Follow-Up on the 

Performance Audit of Preservation and Conservation of Monuments and Antiques

The latest report too speaks of the missing monuments, and their fate has still not been identified.

Of the 24 missing monuments, 11 are in Uttar Pradesh, two each in Delhi, Haryana , Maharashtra and Rajasthan. These missing monuments include the Telia Nala Buddhist site in Varanasi, ruins of three Shiva temples in Mirzapur dating to 1000 CE, a 12th century CE temple in Rajasthan, and several tombs and cemeteries in Lucknow. Also, in the missing list are two ‘Kos Minars’ in Haryana, Sher Shah Suri’s cannons in Tinsukia, Assam, and an European tomb in Pune, among others.

India suffers from a ‘problem of plenty’. In 2007, the Ministry of Culture launched the National Mission on Monuments and Antiquities to prepare a national database of all monuments and antiquities in the country in five years. Its period was extended by another five years (2012-17) and later merged with the ASI.

The mission was to document 4 lakh heritage structures and 58 lakh antiquities across India, but according to the 2022 CAG report, only 1.84 lakh monuments and 16.83 lakh antiquities have been documented so far.

With around 4 lakh local, state and national monuments across the country, 24 ‘missing monuments’ does not look too bad, but these numbers do not really add up.

To understand the issue of the ‘missing monuments’, we spoke to Archaeologist K K Muhammad, who worked for 24 years with the ASI before retiring in 2012 as its Regional Director (North). For one, the listing of most of these monuments was done in the pre-1947 period, and it was only the 2013 CAG report that revealed that they were ‘missing’. But, again, what does this really mean? These ‘missing’ monuments can be divided into five broad categories, with different reasons affecting them.

The first category includes monuments in places like Delhi and Lucknow. Dr Muhammad explained that when lakhs of refugees poured into these cities from Pakistan during Partition in 1947, they took shelter in a large number of ASI buildings and sites including the Purana Qila and Humayun’s Tomb. Over time, while the refugees were resettled from the important monuments, many continued to occupy the lesser-known structures like tombs, baradaris and other buildings. Over time, these structures disappeared and houses were built in their place.

Kos Minars are medieval Indian milestones that once dotted the Grand Trunk Road from Lahore in Punjab to Mandu in Madhya Pradesh. Each one marked a distance of one Kos or 3.2 km. Dr Muhammad explains that as roads shifted over centuries, a number of these pillars became enclosed in the fields of local villagers, who simply demolished them and used them as building material. In many cases, they were destroyed during road widening for highways.

On the list of 24 missing monuments, two are Kos Minars in Haryana, lost probably due to apathy.

There are a large number of Neolithic sites and Menhirs that have disappeared in the last few decades, mainly in Maharashtra and the southern states. Most of these sites were located in remote areas and grasslands. The local administration was probably unaware of the importance of these sites and monuments. So when local District Collectors would distribute lands to landless labourers , the latter would destroy these Neolithic stone mounds to build their houses.

A number of sites in the ‘missing’ list are British cemeteries and European tombs in remote areas. Until 1947, these cemeteries and tombs were maintained by the local British community and by the Church. But after the British left India, these tombs, especially in remote areas, were abandoned and encroached upon.

Another broad category in the missing list are the remains of temples, forts, historic mounds and random sculptures found in remote areas. Due to the absence of supervision by the local administration, they have been pillaged for their material by local villagers and have disappeared over time. While the 2013 CAG report speaks of the destruction of an ancient mound in Sejakpur in Gujarat, the 2022 report marks the disappearance of the Telia Nala Buddhist site in Varanasi. In both cases, people have built houses on top of them.

The root cause of these ‘missing’ monuments are the issues that its custodian faces, in terms of policy, resources and manpower. In the 2022 CAG report, there is a damning indictment of the Archaeological Survey of India. The report states:

“ASI had no strategy or road-map (long term/medium term) to fulfil its mandate.” (Para 4.1)

The report also lists a large number of issues that the ASI faces. For example, the Central Advisory Board on Archaeology (CABA) , conceptualised as apex body to advise the ASI on matters relating to archaeology, has been inactive since March 2018. As a result, according to the CAG, 

“the conservation activities were being undertaken by ASI on ad-hoc/annual basis”.

For example, the biggest issue is that of encroachment, which is the first step to these monuments going ‘missing’. The CAG report states (Para 4.1):

“Despite recommendation of the PAC (Public Accounts Committee), no coordination and monitoring mechanism was established at Central or Circle levels to check the incidents of encroachment.”

Encroachment of historic sites is not a problem peculiar to remote areas; monuments in most cities have been yielding to the pressures of urbanization and growth. Thus, a National Monument Authority was constituted as a statutory body in 2011, to provide no-objection certificates to undertake construction activities in the prohibited/regulated areas of these monuments. The basic objective was to prepare Heritage Bye-Laws and Site-Plans for each monument. However, according to the CAG report, 

of the 3,693 Centrally Protected Monuments, Heritage Bye-Laws for only 31 monuments were notified till date, while those for 210 others were in a process of ‘consultation’.

Perhaps biggest challenge concerning the missing monuments and encroachments is the manpower shortage at the ASI. Overall, vacancies across departments is between 27 and 41 percent!

For example, the CAG notes how in the ASI Delhi Circle upto 24 monuments were looked after by a single Junior Conservation Assistant (Kashmiri Gate Sub-Circle). While in Aihole and Badami in Karnataka, 70 and 31 monuments respectively were being looked after by a single Conservation Assistant.

It is very difficult for a single official to manage such a large number of monuments spread over a large area. The 2022 CAG report mentions that the shortage of staff has had an adverse effect on the performance of the ASI, and also led to instances of misuse of monuments and encroachment at these sites.

So why the large number of vacancies in the ASI? Dr Muhammad says it is not just the ASI. The large number of vacancies here are a part of the broader trend in the Central Government, of not filling job vacancies in government jobs due to cost saving. For example, in July 2022, the Central Government informed the Lok Sabha that there were 9.79 lakh job vacancies in Central ministries and departments.

The annual reports of the Department of Expenditure (DoE) show that vacancies in Central Government jobs have grown from 17.8 percent in 2018, to 22.7 percent in 2019, to 21.7 per cent in 2020, and to 24.2 per cent in 2021. Looking at the broad trends, it seems unlikely that the vacancies in ASI will be filled.

The CAG report has made a number of recommendations for the improvement of the ASI’s functioning. It has suggested the use of technology to document, map and monitor monuments, which would help prevent encroachments.

Nine years have passed between the two audits of the CAG in 2013 and 2022, and yet, as the report shows, little has changed or improved. If things don’t change on the ground, this discussion will be restricted to the Question and Answer hours of the Lok Sabha.

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#DidYouKnow that every so often, an archaeological site or #monument in #India goes ‘missing’, and that some are even ‘untraceable’? Solve the mystery of the country’s lost #heritage even as the ASI looks on helplessly.