Although the preferable medium has changed - we use the digital version more than the paper one now - there is no doubt that maps are still a major guiding factor in our lives. We are literally lost without it at times. Other than its most basic use though, maps have another important role in the world. They provide an interesting look into the history of a region, displaying both the shifting geographical boundaries as well as the perspective of the cartographer or explorer.

These two features are all the more important in the case of the cartographic gems on display at the 'India: A mapful story' exhibition at Ojas Art in Mehrauli. There are 71 maps on display, marking the 71st year of India's Independence, dating back to both the 18th and 19th centuries.

A map of Asia. Photo: Mail Today A map of Asia. Photo: Mail Today

All the maps belong to the pre-independence era, and therefore show the changes an undivided Indian subcontinent went through in those two centuries. Also, each map has its own special feature, owing to the cartographer's own viewpoint and aesthetic sense. Age wise, adds Anubhav Nath, curatorial director at Ojas Art, "The oldest map is from 1786 and the newest is from 1946."

Also Read: Take a trip to Bhutan in black and white at this exhibition

He adds, "Each map tells a story - a story of discoveries, geography, colonisation and politics. The boundaries change - areas become bigger and smaller, depending on who commissioned the cartographer. The maps are works of art with beautiful cartouches and elaborate designs and coloring." The maps - which have been printed in England, France, Italy and the USA - are the works of cartographers such as Seutter, Rennell, Mortier, Lapie, Bonne and Tallis. They have been sourced, Nath adds, from a variety of collectors, dealers and kabadiwaalaas. Besides maps, selected lithographs from the same era will also be on display.

India Orientalis, extending from India to the coasts of Southern China with the Pearl River Estuary. Photo: Mail Today India Orientalis, extending from India to the coasts of Southern China with the Pearl River Estuary. Photo: Mail Today

Although none of the maps have been owned by a famous historical figure, there are a few that hold a special place in Nath's heart. "Two maps are from my grandfather's collection," he says. "There's a deep personal connect as one of them was always in my grandfather's office and before we travelled he would always show the countries on the map."

Be it personal or historical, each map on display at 'India: A mapful story' has its own story to tell.

- The exhibition is on display at Ojas Art, 1 AQ, Qutab Minar Roundabout, Mehrauli on August 1-20; 11 am to 7 pm. Closed on Mondays and August 15.