ABSTRACT

Introduction This chapter critically examines the various contemporary conflicts over heritage interpretation and use in India. It draws upon recent academic theoretical discussions over the political contestation of heritage to facilitate a more nuanced discussion of India’s monuments and museums, India’s colonial heritage and some of India’s World Heritage Sites, particularly the iconic Taj Mahal. Finally, we discuss the production and consumption of souvenirs in the Indian context. First, however, we examine contemporary theoretical discussions of heritage.