India Unarchived

Ep.3 Professor Mahesh Rangarajan on Archiving India’s Environmental History | India Unarchived


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In the third episode of India Unarchived, YIF students sit down with Professor Mahesh Rangarajan, a distinguished historian and environmental scholar whose work has shaped the field of environmental history in India. A Rhodes Scholar and professor at Ashoka University, his research examines the intersections of colonial policy, conservation, and ecological change. From his seminal book Fencing the Forest to his contributions in environmental policy and governance, Professor Rangarajan offers a unique perspective on how archives help us understand India’s environmental past—and what lessons history holds for a sustainable future.

About The Episode 

How does the history of our environment shape our present? YIF students Arushi Bhargava and Mumtaz Mohiuddin sit down with Professor Mahesh Rangarajan to explore the evolving field of environmental history. From colonial conservation policies to the cultural and geopolitical significance of lions and elephants, he unpacks how archives help uncover and preserve lost ecological narratives. Reflecting on his seminal work, Fencing the Forest, he delves into history, nature, and the stories that continue to shape our planet.

About India Unarchived 

India Unarchived, produced by Ashoka University, explores the power of archives in remembering history. Through conversations with historians, archivists, and scholars, the podcast uncovers untold stories and highlights the significance of historical preservation. Created in collaboration with the Archives of Contemporary India and Young India Fellows (Class of 2025), Season 1 delves into history through the lenses of cinema, environment, public memory, and pivotal events.

Watch India Unarchived on YouTube (link

Shot at AshokaX Studio

In collaboration with ELM Team 10 of YIF’ 25 and Archives of Contemporary India 

About Ashoka University

Ashoka University is India’s leading liberal arts and sciences university with 3,000+ students, 21 research centers, and 5,500 alumni in 38 countries. Offering a transformative education rooted in diversity and innovation, Ashoka empowers its alumni to pursue higher education at top global institutions and excel in industries like consulting, technology, media, research, and the social sector. With a faculty-student ratio of 1:11, financial aid for 60% of students, and partnerships with 50+ global institutions, Ashoka exemplifies inclusivity and excellence.

Explore More About Ashoka University

Official Website: https://www.ashoka.edu.in
Apply to Ashoka Now: https://tinyurl.com/u7m6sf8w
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashokauniv/
Twitter: https://x.com/AshokaUniv
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/school/ashoka-university
Facebook: https://facebook.com/AshokaUniversity
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AshokaUniversity

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India UnarchivedBy Ashoka Podcast