Bharatvaarta 259: Uncovering Tipu Sultan’s Dark Past! | Vikram Sampath (Author/Historian)
In this engaging episode of the Bharatvaarta Podcast, host Sharan is joined by Dr. Vikram Sampath to discuss his latest book on the controversial history of Haider Ali and Tipu Sultan's contrasting reigns. The conversation covers various aspects including Tipu Sultan's controversial policies, the methodological challenges of historical writing, and the nuances of presenting an impartial account in a polarized field. Dr. Sampath also shares insights into the importance of documenting contemporary lives for future historians and discusses his initiatives to support upcoming historians through the FIHCR (Foundation for Indian Historical and Cultural Research).
Topics:
00:00 Introduction
01:06 Meet Dr. Vikram Sampath
01:36 The Haider and Tipu Saga
03:47 Balancing Historical Perspectives
05:23 The Craft of a Historian
05:34 Tipu Sultan's Documentation
07:21 Contemporary and Oral Sources
18:05 Comparing Haider and Tipu
26:49 Tipu's Language Policies
30:55 Tipu's Dreams and Interpretations
34:34 Toxic Masculinity and Treatment of Women
37:24 Historical Movies and Controversies
39:29 Challenges in Indian Historical Cinema
42:21 Religious Policies and Temple Grants
51:07 Role of Brahmins and Administrators
55:21 Controversial Historical Figures
57:52 Future of Historical Research
01:04:51 Conclusion and Final Thoughts