In terms of temporal length, spatial breadth, complexity and controversy, glory and tragedy, few countries or regions, if any, can boast of a history quite like India. This remarkable diversity has endowed us with an incredibly rich legacy which goes beyond mere political, regional and religious differences to highlight, in no uncertain terms, just how much this nation-state of today owes to the traditions of secularism and co-existence; to syncretism and the flowering of the arts. These are the very traditions which have come under a visible threat and require understanding and upliftment, something which can be brought about through serious efforts at creating awareness and appreciation; to start looking at history in a more nuanced, rational manner; to treat our glorious heritage, both tangible or otherwise, as living entities still capable of teaching us something. We wish to dedicate ourselves towards achieving these goals.