At the Residency - a bit of history for kids

It's been over two decades since I moved out of my hometown, Lucknow. Each summer I come back here with the kids to renew my bonds with the city. I am extremely proud of its rich culture and history, the language of its people, their subtle sense of humour and of course its culinary treats. That's not to say I haven't bonded with all the cities I've lived in but nothing really does compare with home.

To the kids, it often doesn't quite compare with the city of their birth, being smaller and more laid-back. For this one month I try to show them my city through my eyes, to share with them what I find special about it. 

This week we decided on a historical tryst with the Residency. It dates back to the time of British rule in India and was witness to the first war of Indian Independence way back in 1857. This is where some British families were held under siege while the Indian rebels waged war against them. It's a majestic building, even in its ruins and has stood steadfast for over 200 years.

H and N wanted to know why we played cricket with the 'British' despite having been at war with them. They asked whether there were women and children in the British homes who were hurt in the fight. It was a great time to reinforce how History evolves and how things change over time, how we forget enmity and learn to live in peace. As also the sad effects of war - how innocents are always hurt no matter who is in the right.

Once there, they were too excited running around in the ruins with their cousins to really worry about the history. Sharing some pictures here.



The ruins stand amidst lots of greenery

Signs of the struggle - musket and cannon marks



That, in the backdrop, is a British banquet hall - we had a great time imagining what it would have been like before the place was destroyed.

Doors within doors - amazing symmetry

********

Linking to ABC Wednesday for the letter R with thanks to Mrs Nesbitt for coming up with this wonderful concept. 



Labels: , , , ,