Rare Glimpse of European Audience In Colonial India, 1880 Photo

Rare Glimpse of European Audience In Colonial India, 1880 Photo

An 1880 photo shares a rare glimpse of a British audience in colonial-era India. A mixed audience of Europeans and Indians seem to be enjoying watching a game, although not sure what the game is about. Probably tennis, football, cricket, polo, athletics, etc, which were the popular games then. The mixed crowd of Indians and Europeans seemed to be intensely watching the game from the sidelines.

Also looking on are some white children with their guardians near the left corner. A sizable crowd seemed to have turned out, with fashionably dressed British ladies. The tents in the back are probably for refreshments. The British really loved the outdoor sports and games. Most of them were brought in from their country England in the 18th and 19th centuries. Click on the photo for better view.

Also read How the British forged the first Indian cricket team.

See post Military Games Poona – Old Photo 1900.

Did you know- in 1872, in North West Provinces (now Uttar Pradesh), there were around 5,000 British women. By 1901 the number went up to 42,000.  

From the collection- 1964 M. Suriyamoorthy Charcoal Art Abstract (#9)., Hill Palace Maharaja Of Cochin’s Residence – Old Postcard., Bombing of Madras By Emden WW1 – Old Print 1914.