In this episode of Malabaricus, we trace the early moves of the British East India Company in Kerala, long before their fateful encounter with Tipu Sultan, the infamous "Tiger of Mysore." As the 18th century progressed, the Company transitioned from mere traders to power brokers, navigating Kerala’s fragmented kingdoms and forging strategic alliances. From the northern coast to the powerful Travancore kingdom, the British laid the groundwork for their eventual dominance—just as the looming threat of Mysore’s tiger began to cast its shadow. Join host Sreeraag Mohan as we explore this pivotal chapter in Kerala’s history, setting the stage for the conflicts to come.

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In Colonial Currents: The English Channel of the East, we begin our journey into the short yet intriguing French presence in Kerala. Focusing on the small enclave of Mahé, separated from British Thalassery by the Mayyazhi River—often called the "English Channel of the East"—this episode explores how the French East India Company briefly carved out a foothold on the Malabar Coast. We trace the strategic moves of Mahé de La Bourdonnais, the influence of the French on local culture, and the subtle legacies they left behind. Join us for the first episode of Season 4: The French Interlude and the British Dominion, as we unravel this fascinating chapter of colonial history.

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In Season 4 of Malabaricus, we explore the stories of two European powers whose influence shaped Kerala's history in surprising ways. First, the French, with their brief yet significant foothold in Mahé, left a cultural mark that persists to this day. Then came the British, who arrived as traders and eventually transformed Malabar through their colonial rule.

Join me as we embark on a journey through a tumultuous time in Kerala's past, from French influences on local culture to the far-reaching impact of British governance on Kerala's political and social fabric. Season 4: The French Interlude and the British Dominion, aims to uncover the ambitions, rivalries, and legacies that defined European presence on the Malabar Coast.

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In 'Spices, Science, and Stone: Tracing the Dutch Essence in Kerala,' we uncover the layers of Dutch influence that have seeped into the very fabric of Kerala's culture, language, and architectural heritage. Dive into the stories behind Cochin's colonial architecture, the botanical wonders documented in the Hortus Malabaricus, and the subtle Dutch imprints on Malayalam. Together, we'll explore how spices, science, and stone continue to narrate the tale of Kerala's Dutch essence in this final episode of Season 3: 'The Dutch Legacy in Malabaricus.’

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Embark on a journey back to a pivotal era in Kerala's history with 'A New Dawn: The Rise of Travancore Under Marthanda Varma.' This episode of Malabaricus delves into the remarkable story of Marthanda Varma, the visionary leader whose strategic brilliance and unyielding defiance against colonial powers transformed Travancore into a formidable state. From the scattered principalities before his reign to the unified force that challenged the Dutch at Kolachel, discover how Marthanda Varma's legacy shaped the future of Kerala.

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Dive into an epic tale of resistance and resilience in 'The Land Strikes Back: Kerala Against Dutch Empire,' an exhilarating episode of Malabaricus. As the Dutch East India Company extends its tendrils, seeking to entangle the Malabar Coast in its imperial grasp, Kerala stands on the brink of an era-defining confrontation. This episode narrates the story of a land awakened, where the lush landscapes of Kerala become the backdrop for a stirring saga of defiance. Witness the rise of Marthanda Varma, a leader whose vision transcends his title, challenging the might of the Dutch and sowing the seeds of insurrection. Guided by host Sreeraag Mohan, journey through the heart of Kerala's struggle, exploring how strategic wit and unwavering spirit paved the way for an extraordinary chapter in the battle against colonial dominance. Join us as we recount the moments when Kerala struck back, reshaping its destiny in the face of an empire.

In 'Tides of Trade: Kerala’s Crossroads of Empires', we navigate the tumultuous waters of Kerala’s history, where global ambitions and local resilience collide. This episode of Malabaricus unfolds the saga of trade rivalries that shaped the destiny of Kerala in the 17th century.

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Dive into 'Voyage to Valor: The Rise of the VOC,' where we chart the Dutch East India Company's strategic climb to prominence in the 17th-century spice trade, culminating in their dominance over Kerala's shores. This episode of Malabaricus brings to light the VOC's revolutionary approach to commerce, warfare, and international relations, setting them apart from their European counterparts. Discover how the blend of innovative governance, military prowess, and shrewd diplomacy enabled the Dutch to outmanoeuvre the Portuguese and forge a new era in the history of global trade. Delving into Kerala's rich tapestry, we explore the pivotal moments and key figures that played a role in this historic upheaval, shedding light on the enduring impact of these events on the region and the world at large.

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