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Rediscovering India’s Forgotten Legacy: The Ancient Silk Route That Rivalled the Silk Road

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The Silk Road has grabbed the imagination of the entire globe with its romanticised images of caravans travelling across faraway locations while carrying silk and spices. However, there was once a lesser-known but no less valuable trading route that rivalled the Silk Road in antiquity: the ancient Silk Route of India. This historical marvel, which has only lately been found through archaeological study and scientific digs, casts doubt on conventional wisdom and reveals India’s crucial role in East-West trade for centuries.

The history of the Silk Road is widely known, but the ancient Silk Route of India, which dates to the classical era, was a crucial route for East-West trade. This trade route, which spanned seven important Indian states—Bihar, Jammu and Kashmir, Maharashtra, Puducherry, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, and the modern-day Uttarakhand—enabled the exchange of precious commodities like silk, spices, gemstones, and other opulent goods that were highly prized in earlier times.

Renowned historian William Dalrymple challenges the notion of the Silk Road’s antiquity and contends that, historically, the principal East-West trade route involved India rather than China. During the classical period, the Red Sea served as the primary conduit for this trade, enabling India to export its fine goods to distant lands.

This claim is supported by historical evidence. Roman geographer and economist Pliny recorded the significant flow of gold to India from the Roman realm as a result of widespread Indian exports. Roman women prized Indian silk, precious stones, and other exotic commodities.

Trade imbalances heavily favoured India during ancient times. Indian wine, olive oil, and the well-known fish sauce Garum were eagerly sought after by Romans, but India also exported precious goods like ivory, spices, and jewels. Surprisingly, India has uncovered more Roman coins than any other nation except Italy.

So, why isn’t India’s ancient Silk Route as renowned as its Silk Road counterpart? Several factors have contributed to its relative obscurity, including limited comprehensive data analysis, the limited dissemination of Indian scholarly writings, and emerging evidence from recent archaeological excavations. 

Extensive research into ancient trade has been done at sites like Muziris in Kerala and Arikamedu outside of Pondicherry. Ancient trade connections were highlighted by the discovery of a Buddha’s head and early representations of Hindu gods during the excavation at the ancient Egyptian seaport of Berenike. An essential piece of proof is the historical record known as the Muziris Papyrus, which was found in Egypt. It includes information from a shipping invoice for a deal between an Egyptian ship owner and a vendor from Kerala. The document offers specifics on the contents of containers, insurance information, and legal stipulations, all of which point to a sizable amount of trade.

William Dalrymple thinks that the Muziris Papyrus and other archaeological discoveries may indicate that the ancient Silk Route of India had a greater impact on classical times than the Silk Road itself. For nearly a thousand years, from the first century BCE to the 11th and 12th centuries CE, India was able to export not just goods but also ideas and knowledge.

The introduction of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC) coincides with the rise in interest in India’s ancient Silk Route. This modern-day plan, which could compete with China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), aims to link India with the Gulf and Europe. The IMEEC, which consists of the eastern and northern trade corridors, intends to promote connectivity and trade between India, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Israel, and Europe while reviving India’s status as a global trading powerhouse.

India’s ancient Silk Route, once overshadowed by the Silk Road, is now reemerging as a crucial chapter in world history. This ancient trading network not only benefited India but also promoted cross-cultural interaction, highlighting the country’s continuing heritage as a hub for trade, ideas, and innovation. The IMEEC honours India’s ancient Silk Route, a gem that has been lost but is now again taking the front stage as it opens the way for contemporary commercial ties.

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Dua Lipa: The Global Pop Sensation Redefining Modern Music and Culture

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Dua Lipa has quickly become one of the most influential and celebrated artists of her generation. Known for her velvety voice, empowering lyrics, and bold style, she has transcended the boundaries of pop music to become a global icon. With a career that skyrocketed in just a few years, Dua Lipa continues to prove that she is not just a star but a force reshaping modern music and culture.

Her rise to fame began with her self-titled debut album, which featured hits like New Rules—a modern anthem for self-respect and independence. Dua’s ability to blend dance beats with emotional depth became her signature, solidifying her position as a pop powerhouse. Her sophomore album, Future Nostalgia, was a game-changer, earning her multiple Grammy Awards and acclaim for reviving disco and funk influences in contemporary music. Songs like Don’t Start Now and Levitating became global hits, further proving her ability to craft timeless music that resonates across generations.

But Dua Lipa is more than just a chart-topping singer. She has become a style icon, known for her daring and eclectic fashion sense that effortlessly blends haute couture with streetwear. Her appearances on red carpets and collaborations with luxury brands like Versace have cemented her as a trendsetter.

In addition to her music and fashion influence, Dua has used her platform to advocate for causes she believes in. As a second-generation immigrant from Kosovo, she has been vocal about her heritage and has supported initiatives to uplift her community. In 2020, she co-founded Sunny Hill Foundation to help those in need in Kosovo, showcasing her commitment to philanthropy.

Dua’s versatility extends to the business world as well, with ventures such as her podcast At Your Service, where she connects with influential figures to discuss creativity and culture. Her ability to engage with her audience on multiple levels makes her a modern icon who continues to inspire and innovate.

Whether dominating the charts, turning heads with her fashion, or making a difference through her advocacy, Dua Lipa represents the perfect blend of artistry and authenticity. She is not just shaping the future of pop music but also empowering a new generation to embrace individuality and fearlessness.

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Andie MacDowell Opens Up About Rejecting Hollywood’s Unrealistic Standards

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Andie MacDowell is embracing comfort and self-acceptance, especially when it comes to Hollywood’s beauty standards.

During L’Oréal Paris’ Women of Worth Celebration on Nov. 21, the 66-year-old actress reflected on a recent experience that made her reevaluate the pressures she has faced.

“I did a fitting, and the dress was really tight around my waist. It looked so good, but I woke up knowing it wasn’t the right thing for me,” she shared. “Of course, I immediately shamed myself for not being able to fit into this dress. But that’s Hollywood — this expectation to be something you can no longer be. I’m too old to starve myself for 5 pounds nonstop. I just can’t do it anymore.”

MacDowell noted that societal and industry expectations often push unattainable ideals, a reality she sees reflected in her work and personal life. “I used to live in Montana. When I’m at home, I feel skinny. It’s only when I come out here that I feel like the bar is raised so high, and the expectations are beyond anything anybody can accomplish unless you’re completely devoted to being skinny.”

She expressed a newfound perspective on her priorities: “I want to learn about birds, walk on the beach, be smart, and read books. I’d rather have the 5 pounds on me and wear something that fits than starve myself just to fit into clothes.”

The Way Home star also touched on the broader impact of these societal pressures, recounting a personal story about her grandniece, who struggled with anorexia at the age of 12. “It’s all from expectations she sees on social media and in the world. It was a really hard battle for her. She’s doing fantastic now, but we can’t keep pushing these expectations on people.”

MacDowell’s candid reflections are a reminder of the importance of self-love and rejecting unattainable standards.

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Meghan Markle Reflects on Holiday Traditions and Building Community with Prince Harry and Their Kids

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The holiday season is a time for family, tradition, and gratitude—something Meghan Markle says she cherishes more with each passing year.

In a recent interview with Marie Claire, the Duchess of Sussex shared insights about celebrating holidays with Prince Harry and their children, Prince Archie, 5, and Princess Lilibet, 3. “Every year it gets better,” Meghan revealed, emphasizing how the magic of traditions evolves as her kids grow.

“At first, you’re just enjoying having them there, even if they don’t fully grasp what’s happening,” Meghan explained. “Now, I can’t wait to see it through their eyes every year.”

For Thanksgiving, Meghan described their approach as “low-key” but deeply meaningful, often sharing their table with friends, including her mother, Doria Ragland, and even icons like Gloria Steinem, who joined the family last year.

For Christmas, the family adds whimsical touches, like leaving “carrots for the reindeer.” Meghan hopes to instill lasting memories in her children through recipes and traditions they can carry into adulthood.

Beyond family celebrations, Meghan is also focused on giving back. Through the Archewell Foundation’s Welcome Project, the Duchess recently hosted a dinner for Afghan women rebuilding their lives in the U.S. Speaking at the event, she highlighted the emotional challenges of displacement and the importance of fostering a sense of belonging.

“These moments of togetherness remind people their life isn’t ending—it’s a new chapter,” Meghan said, reflecting on the resilience of the women involved.

As for helping others feel welcome during the holidays, Meghan kept it simple: “Just think about how you’d want someone to treat you.”

From personal traditions to acts of service, Meghan Markle continues to champion family, community, and the power of connection this holiday season.

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