The Last Prince of Bengal: A Family's Journey from an Indian Palace to the Australian Outback

The Nawab Nazim, born into one of India's most powerful royal families, was forced to abdicate in 1880 by the British authorities. The Last Prince of Bengal tells the story of his family's journey from royalty to relative anonymity, exploring British rule in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries and exposing complex prejudices regarding race, class, and gender.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 05 April 2022
Publisher: The Westbourne Press

The Nawab Nazim, born into one of India's most powerful royal families, ruled over a vast kingdom that spanned three times the size of Great Britain, encompassing the majestic Himalayas and the tranquil Bay of Bengal. However, his reign came to an abrupt end in 1880 when the British authorities forced him to abdicate, viewing him as a threat to their rule. This decision resulted in the permanent abolition of his titles and left his secret English family abandoned. The Nawab's sudden downfall marked the end of an era in India, leaving a profound impact on his family.

The Last Prince of Bengal is a captivating tale that delves into the lives of the Nawab Nazim and his family as they navigate their relationship with Britain. From glamorous receptions with Queen Victoria to scandalous Muslim marriages with English chambermaids, their journey is a testament to the complexities of British rule in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. Through the eyes of Lyn Innes, her ancestors' extraordinary journey unfolds, revealing the extremes of British rule and the profound prejudices that shaped their lives.

This compelling account takes readers on a journey through the complexities of race, class, and gender during a pivotal period in recent Indian, British, and Australian history. It explores the struggles and triumphs of one family as they navigate the shifting tides of political and social change, leaving an indelible mark on the history of the region. The Last Prince of Bengal is a testament to the resilience and determination of the human spirit, reminding us of the profound impact that one family can have on the course of history.

Dimension: 196 x 126 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781908906519