Significance of Princely state
The term Princely state refers to territories in India that were governed by local kings and rulers before the end of their sovereignty following independence. Historically, these semi-autonomous regions were associated with local monarchs under British suzerainty and faced significant challenges during the integration into the Indian Union. Prior to independence, there were approximately six hundred such regions that operated with feudal conditions. These princely states were pivotal in shaping discussions about India's federal governance and integration processes.
Synonyms: Royal state, Noble state, Sovereign state, Kingdom, Realm, Territory, Monarchy
In Finnish: Ruhtinasvaltio; In Spanish: Estado principesco
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Princely state'
In Hinduism, "Princely state" symbolizes a life of comfort and privilege, as seen in Rama and Sita, contrasts with loss of status during adversity, and reflects the renunciation of worldly ties by figures like Cakshusha.
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Griffith)
(1) Princely state refers to the life that Rama and Sita have previously lived, characterized by comfort and privilege, and also indicates their upbringing.[1] (2) This refers to the status and possessions Rama was stripped of when he was removed from his home, causing him to become a wanderer.[2]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) The status and way of life associated with being a prince which Cakshusha abandoned to become an ascetic.[3]
The concept of Princely state in local and regional sources
The term "Princely State" denotes around six hundred semi-autonomous regions in India ruled by local monarchs under British suzerainty before independence, each facing unique challenges regarding integration and governance post-colonization.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The integration of these entities was achieved through the determined will of Sardar Patel, marking a significant step in the redrawing of India's map.[4] (2) Regional states in India that had their own rulers and were essential in discussions regarding India's federal governance.[5] (3) Semi-autonomous regions in India that existed before independence, each ruled by its own monarch.[6] (4) Approximately six hundred semi-autonomous regions in India before independence, which faced feudal conditions.[7] (5) Regions in India that were ruled by local kings before the abolition of their sovereignty following independence.[8]
From: History of Science in South Asia
(1) Princely States are the regions where Persian texts on Ayurvedic medicine were composed after the decline of Mughal power, according to the text.[9]