The central aim of Plant Cultures is to convey the richness and complexity of links between Britain and South Asia, through the story of plants and people. It is aimed at anyone interested in understanding the world around them. Britain and the Indian subcontinent have had an immense impact on each other, from the early traders and travellers of the 17th century, to the East India Company and British Empire, and then to independence and population movements in the 20th century. Much of this story is intimately bound up with plants, whether as trade commodities, food, or as subjects for artistic and religious expression. It’s a relationship that continues to be important today. Asian food, medicine, religion, music and film have all had a big impact on Britain’s cultural landscape. The Plant Cultures project covers both the historical and contemporary aspects of Britain and South Asia. Some topics will be familiar – the British Empire, Asian cooking and mehndi (henna painting). Some will be less familiar to many – the ancient traditions of South Asian art and medicine, or the role of sacred plants such as holy basil. The Plant Cultures website brings together a wide range of resources: historic images from museums and libraries, well researched information, contributions from members of the public, and carefully chosen links to other web resources. ... [Information of the supplier]
