Journalism of Courage
The Lesser Colonisers of India
THE LESSER COLONISERS OF INDIA NEWS
From a Belgian port to Bengal: The forgotten story of Austria's colonies in India
August 07, 2026 11:27 am
While the western bank of the Hooghly was dotted with Portuguese, Dutch, French and Danish colonies, the eastern bank, where Calcutta had already been established, briefly hosted the Austrians.
How ‘Made in Germany’ became popular in colonial India
July 23, 2026 8:26 pm
As the Swadeshi movement gained ground in India, nationalists looked beyond Britain for trade partners. No industry gained more from this shift than German synthetic dyes.
How Bata survived India’s liberalisation
July 21, 2026 1:35 pm
In her latest book, author Paramita Sen reflects on her childhood in Batanagar while examining how a Czech multinational became a quintessential Indian favourite.
How a Czech company became part of everyday India: The untold story of Bata
July 21, 2026 1:56 pm
From a Czech company in colonial Calcutta to a brand woven into everyday Indian life, Bata's story is about more than shoes — it is about empire, caste, labour, urban planning, and the making of belonging.
Switzerland's invisible empire in India: The story behind Voltas
July 11, 2026 11:06 am
Switzerland had no colonies, yet its companies profited from empire. The hidden history behind Voltas reveals how colonial trade, race, and the air conditioner became unexpectedly intertwined.
How a Swedish match company shaped colonial India
July 11, 2026 11:06 am
A Swedish company sold matchboxes bearing Gandhi and Bharat Mata to Swadeshi India. The forgotten story of WIMCO reveals how other foreign actors operated in colonial markets without directly ruling them.
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