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EDITORIAL
The history of the region where the city of Bhopal is located traces back to prehistoric times, characterized by a cultural landscape adorned with scattered archaeological remains, prehistoric structures, monuments, settlements, and towns. Significant sites such as the Bhimbetka caves, the precinct of Sanchi, and the city of Vidisha among others bear testimony to the ancient heritage of the area. The narrative of Bhopal’s journey began in the 11th century when it was founded amidst hills. Over time, the city has undergone various stages of development, fostering values of sustainable and inclusive growth. Notably, during the 18th to 19th centuries, the century-long rule of Begums played a pivotal role in promoting ideas of secularism and modernity, shaping the city’s ethos. In the post-independence era, Bhopal’s leadership has shown a commitment to environmental awareness, reflecting an informed approach to urban development. Additionally, the city has prioritized the promotion of its cultural character, with institutions like Bharat Bhavan, MP Tribal Museum, and Indira Gandhi Manav Sanghralaya emerging as bastions of cultural preservation and enrichment. These institutions are creative manifestations of eminent architects and designers inspired by the city and region’s unique cultural and natural context.
Balancing tradition and modernity, Bhopal stands out as a capital city uniquely poised to tackle the challenges of the new age while preserving its distinct identity and natural assets. The city’s cultural richness, coupled with its commitment to conservation, underscores the need to navigate the rapid and wide-scale developments.
The special issue on the Lake City aims to highlight some of its salient features and celebrate its natural and cultural heritage while advocating for their preservation amidst the relentless pace of 21st-century development, the view shared by many personalities here.
We are thankful to Savita Raje, Saurabh Popli, Pradip Nandi, and Gunraagh Talwar for referring some wonderful works and ideas of professionals, academicians, and activists based in the city, which have been featured in this issue.
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IN THE LAP OF NATURE
Suhas Kumar |
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THE CITY
P. K. Biswas |
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IS WISE USE OF BHOJ WETLAND,
A RAMSAR SITE, A DREAM?
Pradip Nandi |
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THE LOST HISTORIC GARDENS
A GLANCE
Meera Ishwar Dass |
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‘A LIVABLE CAMPUS’
INDIAN INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE EDUCATION
AND RESEARCH IISER
Ujan Ghosh |
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WITH VERNACULAR
Nipun Prabhakar | Dhammada Collective |
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