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Delhis landscape forms a dense pattern of the old and the new a maze of streets and dwellings where historic ruins rub shoulders with modern day complexes and where the expanding city encroaches relentlessly on village settlements that date back centuries. Delhis Historic Villages brilliantly captures this uneasy embrace of tradition and modernity. Eight villages have been singled out for the historical interest of medieval monuments in their midstfrom the ruins of Siri adjoining Shahpur Jat to the cluster of shrines in Mehrauli.

What emerges is a fascinating tapestry of word and image that illustrates the realities of everyday life in these urbanized villagesof communities living in a state of flux forced to cope with the transition from a rural to an urban way of life. Karoki Lewiss stunning photographs reveal the effects of modernization on the majestic ruins and their immediate environment.

The supporting text by Charles Lewis provides an absorbing account of the history and present situation of these communities based on interviews with the villagers and extensive archival research.

Celebrating the unique character of each village this lavishly produced new edition will resonate not only with discerning visitors to the city but with Delhi's own residents as well.