Bureaucracy, Belonging, and the City in North India: 1870-1930

This book explores the history of urbanism, architecture, and local identity in colonial north India at the turn of the twentieth century, focusing on Banaras and Jaunpur. It argues that interactions with the colonial state were integral to Indians creating a sense of personal investment in the city. It examines the building of new infrastructure and policies governing historical architectural conservation and incorporates an ethnography of contemporary urban space to advocate for a more nuanced and responsible approach to writing the history of such cities.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 246 pages
Publication date: 29 August 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This captivating book delves into a comprehensive re-evaluation of modern urbanism and architecture, while also providing a rich historical account of urbanism, architecture, and local identity in colonial north India during the turn of the twentieth century. With a focus on the vibrant cities of Banaras and Jaunpur, two of northern India's most traditional and iconic hubs, the book explores the intricate workings of colonial bureaucracy within these cities. It argues that interactions with the colonial state played a pivotal role in shaping the ways in which Indians developed a deep sense of personal investment in the cities they called home.

Through an in-depth exploration of the everyday and mundane aspects of city life, the book seeks to understand the boundaries of British colonial power and the role played by Indians themselves in the creation of the modern city. Drawing upon a wealth of highly localized archival sources, the author conducts a meticulous analysis of two key aspects of city-making during this era: the construction of new infrastructure, including water supply and sewerage systems, and the implementation of new policies governing historical architectural conservation.

In addition to its analytical insights, the book incorporates an ethnography of contemporary urban spaces in these cities, advocating for a more nuanced and responsible approach to writing the history of such cities. It sheds light on the myriad problems facing present-day north Indian urbanism and encourages readers to consider a broader range of factors in understanding the complexities of urban development.

Written in a lively and engaging style, the book incorporates personal reflections and narratives of the author's own experiences, adding depth and richness to its content. It serves as a valuable addition to the fields of South Asian Studies, Asian History, Asian Culture and Society, Colonial History, and Urban History, offering insights that will captivate scholars and enthusiasts alike.

Weight: 358g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032400136