Thanjavur has been the cradle of arts for India across several centuries. Be it painting, music, dance, drama, crafts and cuisine, Thanjavur has exemplified the best, and perfected the art of fine living.
‘Thanjavur - A Cultural History’ is a book authored by Pradeep Chakravarthy with photos by Vikram Sathyanathan that deals with the cultural contributions of Thanjavur from the Chola period to the present. The book in 220 pages with 174 photographs (many of them archival and never printed before) and five maps traces not only the cultural history but looks at the treasures of the Sarasvati Mahal Library, one of the world's most unique libraries that has books ranging from subjects such as philosophy, architecture, literature to medicine, floriculture, magic and water divining. The book also has a detailed analysis of the origin of several streets in Thanjavur, its photographers, coins of its rulers and rare recipes from the 18th century.
Published by Niyogi Books (http://www.niyogibooks.com) the book was recently launched in Chennai. Copies can be purchased (Rs.1250/-) from major bookstores and online book dealers. Call Ramu 9884339345 for more information.