Across Delhi and noticeably in the famous Lodhi Gardens, the greens of the celebrated Delhi Golf Course, the historic Humayun’s Tomb and Red Fort, we see intricate remnants from the Mughal era of 1526-1761. The complex architecture marks the influential Mughal figures including the Emperors Akbar, Aurangzeb and, of course, the Taj Mahal in the city of Agra dedicated to the memory of Emperor Shah Jahan’s beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal.

In this artwork, we pair Mughal power with the vibrant “Genda” or marigold in shades of yellow, orange and mustard. This joyous flower is seen all over India and is a symbol of celebration, prosperity and worship. Genda is a traditional fixture in wedding ceremonies and in the festival of Diwali.

Moreover, these flowers are inexpensive flowers available to all, rich and poor, at any street market. Garlands of marigold that fade over time are never thrown away, instead they are left under trees to gradually melt into the soil that gave them life. The embrace of Marigolds and Mughals also memorializes the multitude of religions and cultures that have peacefully co-existed in India throughout the ages.

Paper Italian, 400 pages, 200 sheets, Plain Ivory, minimum 90 gms, FSC-certified

Leather real calf leather sourced from Italy, The Netherlands, England and Scotland