Dethroned: The Downfall of India's Princely States

In July 1947, India’s last Viceroy, Lord Louis Mountbatten, stood before New Delhi’s Chamber of Princes to deliver the most important speech of his career.

He had just three weeks to convince over 550 sovereign princely states—some tiny, some the size of Britain—to become part of a free India. Once Britain’s most faithful allies, the princes could choose between joining India or Pakistan, or declaring independence.

Fascinated by history? In celebration History Week join us for an engaging talk by acclaimed author and researcher John Zubrzycki as he presents his latest work, Dethroned: The Downfall of India's Princely States. In this meticulously researched book, Zubrzycki explores the intricate and often tumultuous history of India's princely states and their dramatic decline. Through vivid narratives and insightful analysis, he unravels the political and cultural upheavals that led to the end of these once powerful kingdoms.

Don't miss the chance to hear John Zubrzycki discuss his compelling new book and gain a deeper understanding of this fascinating period in Indian history.

‘[A] gripping history – exhaustively researched, and written with all the pace and tension of a thriller – of how the fate of the princely states would be determined in the face of independence and Partition.’ — The Telegraph