Safarnama #4 The Chronicles of Delhi Gazette: Unveiling Colonial India through English Print
History belongs in the past; but understanding it is the duty of the present. - Shashi Tharoor
Disclaimer:
Safarnama is a work of fiction created solely for entertainment purposes. The series aims to tell stories about various places and lost time in a creative manner. While the names of some places and individuals may be used, any resemblance to real places, events, or persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental.
The creators of Safarnama have taken certain liberties in the storytelling process, including the use of creative freedom in naming and describing various elements of the series. Therefore, any resemblance to actual events or places is unintentional
I witnessed an extraordinary sight as I observed Willam Fraser vanishing into thin air with his staff at the far end of the lane. The truth resonated within me, confirming what I had just witnessed. They were unmistakably white Mughals, a remarkable blend of cultures that profoundly fascinated me. It was truly captivating to witness a British agent displaying such a deep interest in the grandeur of the Mughal empire. As my thoughts swirled with amazement, I abruptly returned to reality when I unintentionally stepped on a newspaper.
Lost in my thoughts, a sudden interruption brought me back to the present. Unintentionally, I found myself stepping upon a discarded newspaper, its presence demanding attention. Its title, "Delhi Gazette," stood boldly before me, rendered in a distinctive Sans Serif font—perhaps Albion's Incised Masthead font. I recognized it immediately, as I had once contemplated using it for a newsletter. However, the pages contained only plain text, devoid of any accompanying imagery.
Entranced by the unfolding mysteries, my gaze fell upon a particular column within the newspaper: "The Delhi Gazette Extra." Beneath the column, the date proudly proclaimed Sunday, 20th June, 1858. At last, the pieces aligned, confirming the time and place of my existence—I stood amidst the vibrant tapestry of 19th-century Delhi.
Bringing my focus back to the present, I delved into the textual contents.
The following telegram has just been received from Sir Robert Hamilton. The Ranee of Jhansee is killed. Maharaja Scindia has arrived. Brigadier Smith took four guns in the fight yesterday.