Cities That Smell of Leather and Earth
Urban life across the world has been influenced by economic specialization and guild-based systems. In Europe, medieval guilds impacted political and social trajectories, maintaining control, monopolies, and conflicts. Despite industrial capitalism and globalization, European cities still bear traces of guild influences. In contrast, India's caste-based exclusion led to extensive mobility and diverse professions but perpetuated hierarchical spatial configurations. Guilds had their problems but also contributed to the development of cities, artisanal practices, and economic control. Indian cities reflect divided social lines and co-dependence due to specialized roles. Historical factors continue to shape livelihood and shared living in cities.
