Eric Chopra Unveils Delhi’s Haunted History in 'Ghosted'

Delhi, renowned for its majestic forts and ancient tombs, is steeped in tales of the supernatural. Historian Eric Chopra’s latest work, “Ghosted: Delhi’s Haunted Monuments,” illuminates these tales. This book delves into the city’s eeriest locations, unraveling the ghostly lore that lingers around them.

Scheduled for release on November 25 by Speaking Tiger, “Ghosted” takes readers on a captivating exploration through Delhi’s lesser-known sites. From historical mosques and Mughal tombs to deserted palaces, this book reveals the enchanting yet haunting stories of saints, sultans, and lovers intertwined with the city’s heritage.

Chopra's narrative guides readers through notable haunted destinations like Jamali-Kamali, Firoz Shah Kotla, Khooni Darwaza, Mutiny Memorial, and Malcha Mahal. These sites, rich in heritage, are home to eerie stories involving jinns listening to prayers, queens trapped in their splendor, and Sufi saints bestowing blessings beyond their time.

Chopra portrays Delhi as “a city straddling two realms” — one rooted in reality and another steeped in fables and memories. He recounts how “Ghosted” emerged from his fascination and exploration of Delhi’s ruins. “As a Dilliwala and historian, I’m captivated by the narratives entwined with the city’s monuments. People frequently inquire about Delhi’s ghosts and the urban legends that haunt its history,” he revealed.

With a background in history, Chopra founded Itihāsology, which celebrates Indian art and history. His heritage walks have enriched many visitors, helping them understand the resonances of the past through the city's architecture. His latest book continues this exploration, merging archival research with folklore and oral histories passed down through generations.

According to the publisher, “Ghosted” uncovers the diverse layers of Delhi, from its royal heritage to its spiritual enigmas. Sudeshna Shome Ghosh, Executive Publisher at Speaking Tiger, noted, “Eric possesses a natural talent for storytelling. His commitment to history and meticulous research allow him to bridge the past with the present. We anticipate that readers young and old will find joy in experiencing Delhi through his vivid narratives.”

What sets “Ghosted” apart is Chopra's ability to transform history into engaging narratives. Rather than merely presenting facts, he evokes the city’s spirit, illustrating how each fractured wall and weathered arch is imbued with memories. He weaves history with sentiment, encouraging readers to envision nights filled with echoes of prayers and poetic musings from the past.

Readers can also expect encounters with Delhi’s overlooked figures – not only monarchs and saints but also ordinary individuals who loved, lost, and shaped the city's identity. Chopra’s prose breathes life into Delhi as a dynamic museum where history, myth, and mystery coalesce.

Ultimately, for many, “Ghosted” transcends its role as a history book. It serves as a reminder that cities like Delhi thrive on stories – their essence lives in the silence of aged structures, the cool evening breezes, and the memories that persist.

With “Ghosted,” Eric Chopra beckons readers to traverse Delhi not merely as spectators but as participants – to sense the echoes of time, hear the whispers of history, and discover how the city’s haunted allure connects its illustrious past to its enigmatic present.