Krishna Kumari: The Tragedy of India

Krishna Kumari: The Tragedy of India
Author: English Subba Rao
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing
Total Pages: 168
Release: 2024-07-25
Genre: Drama
ISBN: 1350453854

Krishna Kumari: The Tragedy of India introduces readers to the first English language play in modern India. Written in 1826 by English Subba Rao, one of the first Indians to be schooled in English, Krishna Kumari depicts the true story of a princess of Udaipur who is forced to commit suicide in order to end a war started by her suitors, the rulers of the neighboring kingdoms of Jaipur and Jodhpur. Tragically, her death proves to be in vain because the mercenaries recruited by the contending rulers nevertheless proceed to plunder the region. All three kingdoms are then compelled to seek the protection of the East India Company, bringing their independence to an end. Sharp and witty, Krishna Kumari was intended to warn Indian principalities against the follies that led to the downfall of the Rajputs. Unfortunately, the play scarcely saw the light of day. Angered by Subba Rao's opposition to their power, the British forced him to withdraw from public life. This is why audiences have never heard of Krishna Kumari-until now. Building on extensive archival research, this volume brings Subba Rao's pioneering drama back to life. The introductory essay by Rahul Sagar, a leading scholar of nineteenth century India, familiarizes readers with the remarkable characters in the play and the violent era in which they lived. By shedding light on Subba Rao's extraordinary life and career, it also reveals how important principalities like Tanjore and Travancore were in battling colonialism and shaping modern India.

Catalogue

Catalogue
Author: Calcutta (India). Imperial library
Publisher:
Total Pages: 384
Release: 1904
Genre: India
ISBN:

Journal of the Asiatic Society of Bombay

Journal of the Asiatic Society of Bombay
Author: Asiatic Society of Bombay
Publisher:
Total Pages: 794
Release: 1857
Genre: Asia
ISBN:

Vol. 1-new ser., v. 7 include the society's Proceedings for 1841-1929 (title varies)