The map of British India, before the advent of Indian independence, was of a different complexion. One-third of It was depicted as princly India where native rulers wielded undisputed authority in their States under the over all might of British paramountcy. The native princes, the scions of ancient ruling houses, presented a most colourful and aristocratic segment of society. Their magnificent palaces, the grandeour of their elephants, their quaint but costly ...
