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PUNKAH-WALLAH
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PUNKAH-WALLAH
A PUNKAH-WALLAH keeps the air moving while eleven servants wait on 8 or 9 British diners Date: circa 1840
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Media ID 20144255
© Bubblepunk
1840 Diners Eleven Moving Punkah Servants Wait Wallah
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This evocative image captures a moment in time from colonial India, circa 1840. At the center stands a Punkah-Wallah, a native attendant whose role was essential to maintaining a cool and comfortable environment for the British residents during the sweltering summer months. The Punkah-Wallah skillfully operates the punkah, a large flat fan suspended from the ceiling, which is pulled back and forth by a series of ropes, creating a gentle breeze. Eleven native servants, dressed in traditional attire, wait attentively nearby, poised to fulfill the various needs of the eight or nine British diners seated at the long table. The intricate details of the scene reveal the opulence and extravagance of colonial life, from the ornate silverware and fine china to the lush, exotic fruits and delicate pastries adorning the table. The Punkah-Wallah's role was a vital one, as the lack of air conditioning made the hot Indian climate unbearable for many Europeans. The punkah was a simple yet effective solution, providing relief from the heat and allowing the British to enjoy their meals in relative comfort. This photograph offers a glimpse into the complex dynamics of colonial life, highlighting the intricate interplay between the British rulers and the native population. The Punkah-Wallah and his servants played a crucial role in maintaining the daily routines of the British residents, and their presence underscores the vast disparities in power and privilege that defined the colonial era.
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