9. The Curse of the Koh-i-Noor

In this episode of the "Empire" podcast, the hosts delve into the captivating history of the Koh-i-Noor diamond, exploring its legendary origins and remarkable journey through various empires. They discuss the diamond's ties to curses and its status as a potent symbol of power, tracing its movement from ancient India to the Mughal Empire, followed by Nader Shah of the Afghan Empire and ultimately to Ranjit Singh's Sikh Empire. The narrative highlights the often violent shifts in power surrounding the diamond, concluding with its acquisition by the British East India Company. Notably, the diamond once weighed an astonishing 276 carats, underscoring its immense value and the extremes to which rulers would go to claim it. By listening, audiences gain a deeper understanding of India's complex imperial history and the cultural significance of the Koh-i-Noor.