Transition from feudalism to democracy: a study of the integration of princely states of Rajasthan (1947-50 AD)

For centuries, the people of Rajasthan had experienced the effects of feudalism in its benign as well as malignant forms, for, its political as well as social structure had remained inextricably interwoven in that fabric. So when in 1947, the monarchs of the various principalities of this region signed the Instruments of Accession, they were perhaps unaware that they were signing the death warrant for the feudal order and for the extinction of their dynastic rule. The events that followed proved to be a totally new experience for them and they helplessly watched feudalism transforming itself into democracy through the process of political unification and integration. of administrative, financial and judicial systems as well as merger of their armed forces with the Indian army.

The present study is the first major attempt ever made on this subject, critically analysing and unfolding the various strategies adopted and roles played by the ruling chiefs, the popular leaders, both Central and regional and the bureaucracy-at-work, in this process of transformation. The book will be of great interest to all sections of the people the scholars, administrators and all those who are interested in the history of metamorphosis of Rajasthan from a feudal to a democratic State.