Eric Chopra Unveils Delhi's Haunted Tales in ‘Ghosted’

Post by : Saif Nasser

Delhi, a city steeped in history and grandeur, is laced with tales of the supernatural. Historian Eric Chopra's latest work, “Ghosted: Delhi’s Haunted Monuments,” sheds light on the city's haunted heritage. This book takes readers on an exploration of Delhi's most enigmatic spots, sharing ghostly legends that resonate through the ages.

Scheduled for release on November 25 by Speaking Tiger, the book invites readers on a captivating journey through the lesser-known aspects of the capital. From ancient mosques to desolate palaces, “Ghosted” unveils the stories behind sites that echo with legends of saints, sultans, and lovers.

Highlighted in the book are infamous sites like Jamali-Kamali, Firoz Shah Kotla, Khooni Darwaza, the Mutiny Memorial, and Malcha Mahal — rich in both history and eerie narratives about jinns listening to prayers and queens lingering in their chambers.

Chopra portrays Delhi as “a city caught between two realms” — a tangible existence and a world woven from myths. He emphasizes that the book stems from his fascination and years of exploration among Delhi's ruins. “As a historian and a Dilliwala, I am captivated by the stories intertwined with this city's monuments. I often hear queries about the ghosts of Delhi and why its history seems so imbued with the otherworldly,” he explained.

Chopra, who founded Itihāsology to celebrate Indian heritage, guides many through Delhi’s ancient pathways, showcasing how history whispers through the stones. His book interlaces factual history with folklore and vibrant oral traditions.

According to the publisher, “Ghosted” unveils the complex nature of Delhi, blending its royal past with spiritual enigmas. Sudeshna Shome Ghosh, Executive Publisher at Speaking Tiger, states, “Eric is a born storyteller whose profound historical insights make him a bridge between the past and the present. We believe his insights will captivate readers of all ages.”

What sets “Ghosted” apart is its ability to make history immersive. Chopra doesn’t merely recount facts but creates vivid imagery of the city’s essence, illustrating how every dilapidated wall and decaying arch tells a tale. His blend of history and sentiment invites readers to envision a city alive with echoes of prayers, poetry, and echoes of the past.

Readers can expect to encounter not just famous figures but everyday individuals whose emotions and stories have shaped Delhi. Chopra’s narrative transforms the city into a living gallery where history, folklore, and enigma coalesce.

For many, “Ghosted” transcends a mere historical account. It serves as a poignant reminder that cities like Delhi are vibrant with stories — ones that resonate within the quietude of ancient edifices, on cool evening breezes, and in ever-fading memories.

With “Ghosted,” Eric Chopra invites explorers to traverse Delhi not merely as tourists but as active listeners—encouraging engagement with the spirits of time, the soft whispers of history, and the connection of the city's haunted past to its mysterious present.