British Colonialism and Modernization of Princely States: A Case Study of

Kashmir (1885--1947)

Indian Princely States have long been at the margins of historical research. It is interesting that
much of the history of the impact of British colonialism and the struggle against it has been
written with the locus being provinces ruled directly by the British and not princely states, which
were theoretically autonomous, under indirect rule. Even when the history of colonial India has
been refined by studying the varying mechanisms of colonial power and rule, with increasing
attention to formation of identities and communities, language and gender and, not least, to the
politics of freedom, the princes remain at the margins of history.

The question of modernity and colonial rule has engaged the attention of many scholars of
different persuasions. The definitional uncertainty about what is modernity accounts for the
spectrum of approaches that characterize the usage and understanding of this abstract
phenomenon. Whether modernity means the absence of tradition or opposition to tradition is a
classic question that was posed in the 1950s and 1960s when most of the nation states were
making the transition to a postcolonial and post imperial world.
Rudolph and Rudolph in their famous work The Modernity of Tradition in India (1967) argued
that a dialectical relationship characterized modernity and tradition where both were seen as
continuous and not separated by an abyss. A well-known example cited by them is the limits of
Anglican law or how primordial/ ascriptive Indian laws and Anglican laws mutually coexist.
Later on, this inseparability of modernity and tradition was employed by scholars in the study of
personalities like Bankim Chandra Chatterjee, Gandhi, etc. For instance, a case in point is
Gandhi's use of traditional symbolism in a mass movement drawn on modern lines.
At a sociological and historical level, the question has been whether modernity is universal or
particular, singular or multiple. Scholars who favour universality stress on the inescapability of
the tentacles of industrialization and development of capitalism in the west in fashioning
modernity across the globe. This paradigm assumes a more nuanced and pronounced form in a
classic colonial situation or in a metropole-colony situation. Scholars of the postcolonial
paradigm, which begins by questioning foundational edifice of modernity, tend to move away
from universal to alternative forms of modernity.
Manu Bhagavan's Sovereign Spheres (2003) stands on an alternative modernity paradigm and
shows that modernity and its instruments constituted one of the most potent sites of struggle
between the British and the princes. In the case of educational reforms in Mysore and Baroda,
Bhagavan shows that the attempt to "nativise modernity" meant making modernity "non-British",
thus thwarting the basic colonial pretension that modernity could only be British/ non-native and
that colonial rule is the guarantee of the same. Scholars like Arif Dirlik (2000) argue that one of
the achievements of post modernity is to make claim for "alternative modernities". However,
ironically enough, this claim is made possible by the Euro-American centralization of history,
which is a condition for alter natives. In other words, it is arguable that the claim of an
alternative modernity is theoretically inextricable from the supposition of a universal/Eurocentric
ideal of modernity
Much of the work that exists on the princely states is either of a general nature covering the role
of princes in national politics and the "end game of empire", or specific studies on one or two
individual states taken together on similar or different themes but hardly on their sociocultural
and economic aspects. By far, researchers have focused on major princely states like Hyderabad,
Baroda and Mysore, and Kashmir arguably being one of the less widely researched princely
states in India. Kashmir’s tryst with modernity for its better part is coeval with its colonial
tutelage between 1846 and 1885 when the Kashmir administration was taken over by the British
on grounds of maladministration.

The colonial interest in the region started with end of the 1 st Anglo-Sikh war. As we know that it
was on 16th March, 1846 that by virtue of the treaty of Amritsar the erstwhile state of Jammu
and Kashmir was founded and transferred to Maharaja Gulab Singh of Jammu, earlier a vessel of
Maharaja Ranjit Singh of Panjab, in lieu of 7500000 Nanakshahi. later the Maharaja Gulab Singh
and his successors ruled over this territory or state for about a century by the British officials.
The period from 1846 to 1885 marked attempts by the Dogra’s to establish their legitimacy and
sovereignty and, gift giving without expectation became central to the reconstruction of kingship.
However, the colonial masters were not willing to tolerate a kingship that sought to disperse
power under colonial conditions and stifled such exercises. This went along with a progressive
eduction in the monarchical prerogatives and discretionary powers of the king by bringing even
kingship inside the iron cage of the rule of law. There is no denying the fact that in comparison
to directly administered British India the princely state of the country, bearing Mysore, Rajkot
and Hyderabad for a pretty long time remained as backwaters in case of the modernization of
administration, education, agriculture and industry etc. same was true in case of the state of
Jammu and Kashmir. But with the passage of time especially from 1885 when a full-fledged
Residency was imposed on Maharaja Pratap Singh (1885-1925), the process of modernization
picks up that accompanied innovations of profound importance in the socio-cultural and
economic history of Kashmir.

Modernization can be glimpsed through both structural transformations of Kashmir society and
cultural changes. It is safe to say that the process began as a result of colonization, when there
was a direct encounter of Kashmir’s traditional society and modernizing west. Traditionally, the
socio-economic structure in Kashmir was feudal based on hierarchical system. The colonizers
after the establishment of Resident in Kashmir introduced the earliest instruments of
modernization-western education, bureaucracy, system of civil rights and a modern supra-
structure of state and economy among other things. Exposure of these change agents led to the
creation of new political culture and a sense of nationalism. The combination of increased
technology and western education together created a change in the traditional structure-it resulted
in the birth of new life style structure which was largely absent previously. The new structure
was characterized by new land-man relations, absence of food shortages, development of
infrastructure and trade, medical advancement, change in household items etc. Therefore, it is
from this period i.e. 1846 to 1947 that European culture left a profound impact on every aspect
of Kashmiri life and it is from this period that the history of Modernization of Kashmir began.

In the present study the researcher will look into the trajectory of modernity in the princely states
and its impact on the life style of the Kashmiri’s the resident of the princely state of Jammu and
Kashmir. The Researcher will take the note of the story of an alternative project of modernity, a
monarchial modern, which was powered by the world view of western educated bureaucrats and
propped by a waning monarchy that was progressively becoming hallowed in the face of a steely
bureaucracy and the paramount power. In this very case the researcher will try to understand how
modernity in Kashmir was a story of the slow hollowing out the Kashmir monarchy. It was in
late 19th century the project of building infrastructure took place. The construction of Jhelum
Valley Cart and Banihal Cart Road, facilitated the easy movements of goods, people and ideas in
the backdrop of such policies, researcher will also try find out the connection between the
development of infrastructure and the process of modernization in Kashmir. Similarly opening of
hospital and educational institutes proved beneficial for Kashmiris in many ways the researchers
by taking these institutes in consideration will try to examine how these institutes changed the
perception of people towards modernization, which was far long termed as a process and a
mission against their religion and lifestyle. Similarly researcher will also examine the impact of
education and the political landscape of Kashmir and in broader context will try to locate the
integration of Kashmir with that of India as the direct outcome of the western educational
system. By doing researcher on these aspects of modernization the work will fills the gap and
will adds a new orientation to the scholarship on the princely state of Jammu and Kashmur and
modernity in particular.

JUSTIFICATION

“British Colonialism and Modernization in Princely States: A Case Study of Kashmir (1885-
1947)” delves into the transformative period in the region's history, spanning from the late 19 th
century to the eve of India's independence in 1947. This historical narrative explores the
multifaceted journey of Kashmir as it navigated through a complex web of social, political, and
economic changes during this pivotal era. The narrative begins in 1885, a time when the Dogra
rulers were at the helm of Kashmir's affairs. It unfolds the dynamics of societal transformations,
influenced by British colonialism, technological advancements, and the global socio-political
landscape. The region witnesses the advent of modern education, communication, and
transportation systems, leaving an indelible mark on the traditional socio-cultural fabric. The
exploration of political evolution takes centre stage as Kashmir grapples with the ebb and flow of
regional and global politics. The narrative sheds light on the changing power dynamics, the
princely state's relationship with the British Empire, and the intricate interplay of internal and
external forces that shaped Kashmir's political landscape. Economic shifts and modernization
initiatives also play a crucial role in the narrative. The story unfolds the impact of economic
policies, agricultural reforms, and industrialization efforts on the lives of Kashmiris. The clash
between tradition and modernity is examined as the region undergoes economic transformations,
altering the livelihoods and aspirations of its people. Against the backdrop of historical events,
the narrative navigates through the societal changes and cultural shifts. It explores how the
people of Kashmir grapple with the challenges of preserving their cultural identity in the face of
modern influences, global connectivity, and evolving political scenarios. As the narrative
progresses towards the conclusion in 1947, the reader gains insights into the complex
circumstances leading to the partition of British India and the subsequent choices faced by the
princely state of Kashmir. The story encapsulates the challenges and decisions that paved the
way for Kashmir's future in the post-independence era.
Thus “British Colonialism and Modernization of Princely States: A case study of
Kashmir(1885--1947)” is a comprehensive exploration of a crucial period in Kashmir's history,
capturing the intricacies of its journey towards modernity against the backdrop of global and
regional changes. The narrative provides a nuanced understanding of the socio-political,
economic, and cultural dynamics that shaped the destiny of the region leading up to the
tumultuous times of India's independence.
SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY
This research will contribute to the understanding of the intricate relationship between British
colonialism and the modernization of princely states, with Kashmir as a specific case study.
The findings will shed light on the complexities of colonial influence, the agency of local rulers,
and the lasting impact on socio-economic, cultural, and political aspects of the region.
METHODOLOGY
The research will employ a multi-disciplinary approach, utilizing historical analysis, archival
research, and case study methods. Primary sources, including colonial records, administrative
documents, and princely state archives, will be crucial for understanding the policies and
decisions of the British administration. Additionally, secondary sources and academic literature
will provide contextual analysis and theoretical frameworks for understanding the broader
implications of colonialism on princely states.

OBJECTIVES

1. The proposed study would attempt to look into the various forms and their nature and
character by which the Europeans and Kashmiris came into contact.
2. It would also examine the response and reaction of the Kashmiris to the influences of
Western culture.
 3. The study would endeavour to explore the transformation of traditional education and
healthcare system along Western lines.
4. It will also attempt to look into the genesis of the freedom of press and its role in the rise
and growth of public opinion.
5. The proposed study shall also attempt to study and analyse the changing pattern of
housing and household items as a result of modernization.
6. It would also try to look into the response of the people of Kashmir to Western dress and
diet. Besides, an in-depth examination of the entry of English vocabulary into Kashmiri
language will be another aspect of the proposed study.
7. Moreover, the proposed study shall also investigate the process that when and how the
traditional means of amusement and recreation were replaced by the modern ones.

RESEARCH QUESTIONS

1. How did the political landscape in Kashmir undergo changes between 1846 and 1963,
and what role did these transformations play in the region's journey towards
modernization?’
2. In what ways did the socio-economic structures of Kashmir evolve during the specified
period, and how did these changes contribute to or hinder the modernization process?
3. What were the cultural shifts and developments in Kashmir from 1846 to 1963, and how
did they influence the overall modernization trajectory of the region?
4. How did external influences, such as colonial powers or global trends, impact the
modernization efforts in Kashmir between 1846 and 1963, and what were the local
responses to these external dynamics?
METHODOLOGY

LITERATURE REVIEW

Khan, M. Ishaq, Kashmir, southern Asia's most famous strategic region, centers upon Srinagar.
As political capital of the Dogra rulers and focal point of European tourism, the city has inspired
or provoked a myriad of travel accounts and official papers. Mohammad Ishaq Khan has utilized
these to compile this study of Srinagar's economic, social, and cultural life from 1846 to 1947.
Urban historians will find interesting details here but may be frustrated by the paucity of material
on the physical patterns of Srinagar's growth or on the distribution of its various spheres of
economic and cultural activity. (The government of India has added to the problem by not
granting the author permission to include a map of the city.) Srinagar's scenic setting with its
lakes, river, and canals proved a growing attraction for the colonial European elite after
communications had been improved in the late nineteenth century. Yet this "Venice of the East"
surpassed its namesake in inadequate drainage and conservancy. Tourism provided a concern for
public health and stimulated efforts at municipal improvement. One visitor found "a city reared
on filth, a people born in filth, living in filth and drinking filth" (p. 21). Khan perhaps takes such
assessments too literally, but he demonstrates the ties between the imperatives of colonial health
and the grudging acquiescence of Srinagar's citizens in the costly rigors of "municipal
improvement." Tourism and communication worked other changes in the city. Some handicrafts
were subverted by newly available outside products. The shawl industry apparently declined as
much from the taxation policies of the Dogra rulers as from external competition. Khan portrays
shawl making in decline but never clarifies whether these forced weavers into other occupations
or whether it was the attractive alternatives in rug making that drew them away. Tourism
stimulated several new "handicraft" industries including furniture making and boat building.
Khan's discussion of social and cultural life proceeds in a detailed descriptive fashion that does
not often attempt comparison or generalization. The growth of education and public opinion and
the relations of Hindus and Muslims are presented with sensitivity. There is a strong
undercurrent of criticism of the Dogra Maharajas throughout. Khan does not yield to the
temptation to label them religious tyrants, but he does present the rulers as obstacles to progress
for all Kashmiris. In the process, British missionaries are credited for stimulating reform ideas
that aimed at a general transformation of the society. Clearly, some changes were cosmetic.
The dress and decoration of Kashmiri Pandit boys enrolled in the mission school quickly
changed when, in an effort to overcome their "lethargy," compulsory sports and games were
introduced. As Khan remarks in a rather unnerving fashion, the boys' nose rings and earrings
"were found to be a painful accessory when boxing was introduced" (pp. 135-36). Other changes
had deeper consequences for the minority of educated Muslims and Hindus. Khan clarifies the
cross-cutting elements of religious revivalism, secular social reform, and nationalism. There are
real shortcomings. Khan's explanations are not always consistent. Some of his conclusions do not
seem grounded in the text. Footnotes and bibliography are extensive but difficult to reconcile and
utilize. In the end the reader grasps Srinagar's past uncertainly but may appreciate more fully the
socioeconomic complexities underlying modern Kashmir's turbulent history.
Khan M. Saleem, The History of Jammu and Kashmir (1885-1925) written by Mohammad
Saleem Khan and published by Gulshan Books, Srinagar in 2011 covers the period of Maharaja
Pratab Singh (1885-1925), the third ruler of the Dogra dynasty. It indeed covers the period when
the process of modernization of administration from. The book began to take proper initiates
with a discussion on the dynamics of changing relation between the British government of India
and the princely state of the Kashmir that culminated in the imposition of the full-fledged
Residency upon Maharaja Pratab Singh and his deposition from 1889 to 1905.
In the following chapters it deals with the land settlement conducted under the prominent ICS
officer Sir Walter Roper Lawrence between 1889 and 1895 that went a long in streamlining the
agrarian system in the valley. Besides, it deals with the prevailing money lending system,
financial structure, mode of expenditure, judicial and the police administration. However, the
author has not discussed the positive impact of administration reforms upon the society and
economy of Kashmir that ultimately paved a way for people’s response to western culture.
Moreover, the author has mainly relied on the conventional sources like the Valley of Kashmir
by Walter Roper Lawrence (ICS) and the archival material and various European travel accounts.
Ahmad Parvez, another work written under the title of Economy and Society of Kashmir (1885-
1925) by Parvez Ahmad and published by Oriental publishing House, Srinagar, Kashmir pertains
to the times of Maharaja Pratab Singh. There is no denying the fact that the period in question is
most significant as far as the process of the modernization in the Valley of Kashmir is concerned.
However, the author has devoted a large part of his study to discuss the economy and society that
existed during the period in question. There is hardly any mention about the impact of
modernization on everyday life of Kashmiris and consequent changes in their overall attitudes as
a result of modern education. Moreover, the author as was the connection in history writing has
used the conventional sources and the maximum information has been borrowed from the
monumental work of the land settlement commissioner of Kashmir Walter Lawrence (1889-
1895), The Valley of Kashmir. Besides the author has not used the contemporary vernacular
sources and information has been drawn from vernacular poetry or prose that at present is
considered as the most potential source for having an accurate and balanced account of the times
to write a people’s history. Therefore, it cannot be considered as a study representing the overall
impact of modernization on Kashmir particularly when it examines the period between 1885-
1925 only.
Kapur, M.L, Social and Economic History of Jammu and Kashmir State, 1885-1925 A.D.
Thought based mostly on the secondary works, books on the Political History of the State from
the time it was founded in 1846 to its accession in 1948, are galore. but the study of
socioeconomic history has practically been neglected. Still more distressing is the fact that even
those few scholars who have lifted their pen to write on it, have done so with a jaundiced eye and
based on only a fraction of the available material. As a result, the readers have formed several
false and misconceived notions about the men who ruled, their motives, and the outcome of what
they did. The present work focuses on the different dimensions of the history of the region and
highlights the contribution of the Maharajas towards the development of the State. The author
made use of available archival literature and gave us the description of arts and crafts, health and
the hygienic process initiated by the Maharaja, transport and communication, forced labor and
other kind of problems faced by the people of the State of Jammu and Kashmir. Though this
book traces the history of modern Kashmir, but mainly fails to address the factors and impact of
the modernization of Kashmir and the author mostly focused on Jammu region while neglected
the Kashmir region at many fronts.

TENTATIVE CHAPTERIZATION

1. INTRODUCTION
2. TRADITIONAL ECONOMY AND SOCIETY: AN OVERVIEW
3. TOWARDS MODERNIZATION
4. EDUCATION AND HEALTHCARE
5. PRESS AND PUBLIC OPINION
6. HOUSING AND HOUSEHOLD GOODS
7. DRESS, DIET AND LANGUAGE
8. ENTERTAINMENT AND RECRATION
9. CONCLUSION
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