The Seen and the Unseen - hosted by Amit Varma cover image

The Seen and the Unseen - hosted by Amit Varma

Ep 156: Kerala and the Ivory Throne

Jan 20, 2020
Historian Manu Pillai joins Amit Varma to discuss Kerala's history, including its matrilineal system empowering women, extreme casteism, and badass queens. They explore the assimilative nature of Kerala, the brutal tactics of Martin Varma, effects of British influence on Indian culture, and the complex life of painter Raja Ravi Varma. The podcast also covers the fearless leadership of a Maharaja, the downfall of a queen, and the striking down of the matrilineal system.
02:20:43

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Indian culture paradox: illiberal and sexist society with a history of powerful women.
  • Unearthing Saythu Lakshmi Bai's forgotten story, shedding light on the matrilineal system in Kerala.

Deep dives

The Paradox of Women in Indian Culture

Indian culture is deeply illiberal and sexist, yet Indian history is filled with powerful and capable women. Despite societal constraints, women have stepped forward as leaders throughout history, especially in Kerala where a matrilineal system gave them dominance in their households. The present-day protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act have seen many women taking a leading role. The podcast explores the paradox of women's treatment in India and highlights the potential for women to lead the way towards greater freedom.

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