Forgotten Nexus

The Anglo-Mysore Wars were a defining series of battles in 18th-century India, where Indian resistance clashed directly with the growing power of the British East India Company. Spanning four major wars between 1767 and 1799, these conflicts highlighted the bravery, strategy, and vision of the Kingdom of Mysore under Hyder Ali and later his son, Tipu Sultan. Often called the “Tiger of Mysore,” Tipu Sultan became one of the fiercest challengers of British colonial rule. Through advanced military tactics, strong alliances, and bold reforms, Tipu turned Mysore into a symbol of Indian resistance. This article explores the background, key battles, and lasting impact of the Anglo-Mysore Wars, emphasizing Tipu Sultan’s extraordinary efforts to protect Indian sovereignty. Historical Background: The Rise of Mysore The Kingdom of Mysore, located in present-day Karnataka, rose to power under Hyder Ali—an ambitious military commander who became ruler of Mysore. He built a powerful army, adopte...

In the rich and diverse history of ancient India, few foreign groups had as deep and lasting an influence as the Sakas , also known as the Indo-Scythians . These warrior tribes came from the Central Asian steppes—regions now part of Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and southern Russia. Originally fierce nomadic horsemen, the Sakas migrated into the Indian subcontinent around the 2nd century BCE , driven by shifting power dynamics in Central Asia. Their arrival marked the decline of Indo-Greek rule and the beginning of a new era in Indian politics, economy, culture, and trade. Over time, the Sakas not only established powerful kingdoms in northwestern, western, and central India , but also integrated into Indian society. They promoted Sanskrit , supported Hinduism and Buddhism , and strengthened India’s connections with the Silk Road trade routes . This article explores the origins, migrations, dynasties, cultural contributions , and lasting legacy of the Saka rulers who played a crucial role...

Despite being separated by vast oceans and continents, India and Mexico share a deeply connected colonial past —marked by foreign domination, economic exploitation, cultural suppression, and resilient freedom movements. Colonized by two of Europe’s most powerful empires— Britain in India and Spain in Mexico —both nations witnessed the rise and fall of native civilizations under imperial rule. This article explores their parallel colonial journeys , from pre-colonial greatness to the lasting impacts of colonization. It offers a closer look at how two distant nations experienced similar patterns of conquest, control, resistance, and ultimately, independence.  Pre-Colonial Civilizations: Advanced Societies Before Colonization India: A Mosaic of Empires Before the British arrived, India was home to powerful kingdoms and empires , including the Mughals , Marathas , Rajputs , and southern dynasties like Vijayanagara . These states contributed to a flourishing society with achieveme...

In an age where the world faces increasing moral confusion, ecological decline, mental health crises, and leadership failures, the need for a universal guiding principle is more urgent than ever. One of the most powerful and enduring contributions of ancient Indian civilization is Dharma —a central idea from Vedic philosophy that offers not just spiritual insight but a practical framework for ethical living, personal growth, and social harmony. Far beyond a religious belief, Dharma is a timeless system of values based on cosmic order, individual duty, and collective responsibility. Its influence can be seen across modern law, education, psychology, leadership models, and environmental ethics. From the Bhagavad Gita’s teachings on righteous action to the Atharvaveda’s ecological reverence , Dharma continues to shape global thought in profound ways. This article explores how the ancient Indian principle of Dharma laid the philosophical foundation for many aspects of contemporary lif...

Did ancient Indian traders reach the Americas centuries before Columbus’s historic voyage in 1492? This intriguing question continues to stir debate among historians, archaeologists, and cultural researchers around the world. While textbooks credit Columbus with discovering the “New World,” several alternative theories suggest that other ancient civilizations—including India—might have crossed oceans and established early contact with the American continents. India, known for its vast maritime trade, advanced shipbuilding, and global influence, emerges as a strong candidate in this debate. This article explores the possible maritime connections between India and the Americas before Columbus. We will examine trade routes, cultural clues, botanical similarities, and academic arguments—both for and against the idea. Could this be a forgotten chapter of world history? India’s Ancient Maritime Strength: A Global Trading Power India's oceanic trade dates back more than 4,000 years. ...

Long before the arrival of European powers, Asia was already home to some of the world’s most advanced and powerful kingdoms. These pre-colonial empires built rich cultures, strong economies, and efficient governments that shaped the continent for hundreds of years. From the grand Mughal Empire in India and the wealthy Ming Dynasty in China to the seafaring Majapahit Empire in Indonesia and the spiritual Khmer Empire of Cambodia, these kingdoms controlled massive areas, major trade routes, and left behind legacies that still shape the world today. In this article, we explore some of pre-colonial Asia’s most influential kingdoms , revealing how their power, culture, and leadership continue to inspire the modern world.  Why These Kingdoms Were So Powerful The strength of these kingdoms came from four key factors:  1. Strategic Location Many empires grew strong by controlling important trade routes like the Silk Road , Maritime Spice Routes , and key sea passages such as th...

Throughout history, civilizations have grown and progressed not in isolation, but through the sharing of ideas across borders. One of the most remarkable examples of this global knowledge exchange is the influence of ancient Indian astronomy on the Islamic Golden Age. Between the 8th and 14th centuries CE, as the Islamic world entered a golden era of science and learning, scholars from regions like Baghdad looked to India for advanced knowledge of the stars and mathematics. They studied Sanskrit texts, adopted Indian mathematical models, and applied observational techniques that were far ahead of their time. This exchange—made possible through translation movements and scholarly dialogue—laid the foundation for Islamic astronomy and, eventually, inspired scientific advancements in Europe. Understanding this vital connection sheds light on India’s crucial role in shaping the global science of astronomy. Foundations of Ancient Indian Astronomy Ancient Indian astronomy, also known as ...