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Royals and Rebels

The Rise and Fall of the Sikh Empire
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Royals and Rebels by Priya Atwal explores the fascinating history of the Sikh Empire, focusing on the charismatic figures and dynamic politics within this royal family. The book delves into the turbulent yet captivating era of transformation in Northern India, shedding light on the roles of powerful women and the dramatic shifts that shaped the empire's legacy. Through engaging narrative, it unveils the complexities of leadership and rebellion in the quest for power and identity.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This book may appeal to you if you're fascinated by the historical dynamics of power and identity within royal families. It offers an insightful exploration of the Sikh Empire, delving into the complex and often rebellious relationships between its rulers. If you enjoy learning about how personal ambitions and familial loyalties shaped the politics of a region, this book provides a captivating read.

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A dazzling history of the powerful women and men who forged a dynasty to rival the Mughals and the British.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

In late-eighteenth-century India, the glory of the Mughal emperors was fading, and ambitious newcomers seized power, changing the political map forever. Enter the legendary Maharajah Ranjit Singh, whose Sikh Empire stretched throughout northwestern India into Afghanistan and Tibet.

Priya Atwal shines fresh light on this long-lost kingdom, looking beyond its founding father to restore the queens and princes to the story of this empire's spectacular rise and fall. She brings to life a self-made ruling family, inventively fusing Sikh, Mughal and European ideas of power, but eventually succumbing to gendered family politics, as the Sikh Empire fell to its great rival in the new India: the British.

Royals and Rebels is a fascinating tale of family, royalty, and the fluidity of power, set in a dramatic global era when new stars rose and upstart empires clashed.

'An intricate masterpiece laden with gems as old as the empire itself.' - Brown Girl Magazine

'Smart, timely and fresh, from an exciting new voice in history writing.' - Lucy Worsley, Chief Curator, Historic Royal Palaces, and presenter of Royal History's Biggest Fibs

'A wonderfully vivid appraisal of a fascinating period of Indian history. Atwal's work is serious and captivating. A welcome new voice, with much to teach us.' - Anita Anand, broadcaster and author of The Patient Assassin, Sophia, and Koh-i-Noor

'Gripping! A new history that marvellously expands the horizons of our knowledge.' - Shashi Tharoor, Indian MP and author of Inglorious Empire

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Royals and Rebels by Priya Atwal has received positive reviews for its engaging and comprehensive exploration of the Sikh Kingdom, particularly highlighting the contributions of women in the Sukerchakia dynasty. Reviewers praise Atwal's ability to combine academic rigour with captivating prose, bringing fresh insights and challenging traditional Orientalist narratives. The book is commended for its vivid storytelling, intricate cultural analysis, and its role in expanding the understanding of South Asian history.

Book Hero reading reviews

Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781787389649

Publisher: C Hurst & Co Publishers Ltd

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 06 April 2023

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: C Hurst & Co Publishers Ltd

Illustration: 28 Illustrations, color

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Width: 129.0mm

Height: 198.0mm

Weight: 250g

Pages: 328

About the Author

Priya Atwal is the Community History Fellow at the University of Oxford, where she earlier obtained her doctorate. Her research on monarchy and empire has been featured in collaborative projects with Historic Royal Palaces, among others; and on BBC radio and television programmes, including BBC4's The Stolen Maharajah.

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