Sunday, May 03, 2026 15:30 [IST]
Last Update: Sunday, May 03, 2026 09:53 [IST]
Window Seat
As of April 2026, severe heat waves have caused 95 of the world's 100 hottest cities to be located in India, according to real-time AQI.in data. Temperatures in central India, Maharashtra, Telangana, and the Indo-Gangetic plains exceeded 40 degree celsius, with some approaching 45 degree. The surge is driven apparently by intense sun, lack of rain, and urbanization. However, a closer look reveals other reasons, mostly man-made.
States severely impacted include Maharashtra, Telangana, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Odisha. Another matter of concern is: the number of 'hot days' in a year is increasing every passing year.
Intense heat negatively impacts life and livelihood in many ways. Often called a "silent killer," Intense heat, particularly when combined with high humidity, disrupts essential life activities, reduces productivity, and increases mortality. Prolonged exposure causes heat exhaustion and heatstroke, a medical emergency. Heat puts immense strain on the body, worsening cardiovascular disease, diabetes, renal (kidney) disease, and mental health issues. It has deep negative impact on human productivity.
Lucknow
Recently I went to Lucknow, known as the city of Nawabs, where history, culture, and refined etiquette blend seamlessly. Though recorded history of Lucknow goes back to at least mid-fourteenth century, it rose to prominence in the 18th century under the rule of the Nawabs of Awadh, particularly Asaf-ud-Daula, who contributed significantly to its architectural and cultural legacy.
The city is renowned for its distinctive Indo-Islamic architecture, best exemplified by the grand Bara Imambara, famous for its massive arched hall and the intricate Bhool Bhulaiya (labyrinth). Nearby stands the elegant Rumi Darwaza. Another landmark, the Chota Imambara, dazzles visitors with its chandeliers and ornate interiors.
Lucknow played a crucial role during the Indian Rebellion of 1857, serving as a major center of resistance against British rule. The Residency complex still bears marks of that turbulent period.
Culturally, Lucknow is synonymous with tehzeeb—its famed etiquette and gracious manner of speech. It is also a hub for classical arts, including Kathak dance and Urdu poetry. The city’s cuisine is legendary, particularly its Awadhi dishes like kebabs and biryani, with the melt-in-the-mouth “Tunday kebab” being especially popular.
Today, Lucknow as the capital of Uttar Pradesh balances its rich heritage with modern growth, emerging as an important administrative, educational, and cultural center in northern India.
Rumi Darwaza
Lucknow has many iconic buildings in Mughal, Turkish, and Persian architectural elements.
The Rumi Darwaza (sometimes known as the Turkish Gate), a gateway which was built by Nawab Asaf-Ud-Daula in 1784 is one such must-see structure.
It was designed by the Persian architect Kifayatullah. Inspired by an ancient gate, the Sublime Porte (Bab-i-Humayun) in Istanbul, Turkey, Rumi Darwaza seamlessly blends Mughal, Turkish, and Persian architectural elements. My son, who teaches architecture in a University, tells me, Rumi Darwaza deviates from the typical Mughal style in a fascinating way.
Raghu Rai
Legendary photographer Ragu Rai passed away on 26 April at the age of 83. Known for his iconic black-and-white documentation of India’s social, political, and cultural life over several decades he is often called ‘poet of photography’.
Born in 1942 in Jhhang (now in Pakistan), he began his career in the 1960s and soon rose to prominence for his evocative images capturing India’s social, political, and cultural landscapes.
Rai joined The Statesman early in his career, where his work drew attention for its sensitivity and composition. His talent was recognized internationally when the legendary photographer Henri Cartier-Bresson invited him to join Magnum Photos in 1977, making him one of the few Indians to be part of this prestigious collective.
His body of work spans iconic moments in Indian history, including extensive documentation of the aftermath of the Bhopal Gas Tragedy. Rai’s photographs often focus on ordinary people, capturing emotion, resilience, and the complexities of everyday life.
Over the decades, he has published numerous acclaimed photo books on themes ranging from Mother Teresa to the cultural vibrancy of Delhi and Varanasi. His contributions have earned him several honours, including the Padma Shri in 1972.
Raghu Rai’s work remains a benchmark in Indian photojournalism, blending artistic excellence with a profound social conscience.
