Lunchtime Talk: Royalty and the British Raj

In 1947, Indian and Pakistan became independent dominions, able to govern themselves as part of the British Commonwealth of Nations ending their decades long allegiance to the British monarchy. Today, India is the largest country in the modern Commonwealth, an organisation with close links to Westminster Abbey.  

Prior to gaining independence, the Indian subcontinent was seen as the ‘jewel in the crown’ of the British Empire and played an important role in shaping the character and history of the British monarchy.  

In this talk, Professor Chandrika Kaul will examine the relationship between the royals and the Raj and contextualise the imperial role of the Royals and monarchy. She will consider the impression that royal visits to India made on both British and Indian subjects and reveal how the pomp and ceremony so intimately associated with the royal coronations and celebrations in Britain was rivalled by the equally ostentatious and colourful Delhi Durbars. 

This event is part of our monthly Lunchtime Talk series. On the second Wednesday of every month, join us at St Margaret’s Church for an in-depth exploration of part of the Abbey’s history. 

About Chandrika Kaul

Chandrika Kaul is a Professor of Modern History at the University of St Andrews who specialises in modern British, Imperial and media history. Her research interests include the British empire especially in South Asia, the British Monarchy, and the British Media with a focus on the British Press and the BBC. She is the recipient of a Leverhulme Major Research Fellowship, and is a Founding Co-editor of the book series Palgrave Studies in the History of the Media. Her most recent edited book is M. K. Gandhi, Media, Politics and Society: New Perspectives (2020) and she is currently completing a book on the BBC and India. 

Ticketing information 

This event does not include entry to Westminster Abbey. We recommend looking at the Visit us pages to plan a visit during opening hours. 

​​If you would like to look around the rest of the Abbey during your visit then we recommend you do so before you attend the Lunchtime Talk. This is to allow you enough time to see as much as possible.  

​​Free for Associates - Admission will be granted upon presentation of a valid Association membership card. 

Age suitability 

This event is for adults and young people over the age of 16, please see our family pages for information and events to explore this theme as a family.  

Timings 

​​Doors will open at 12.45pm and the talk will begin at 1.00pm. ​​There will be time for an audience Q&A from 1.40pm. 

Meeting location 

This event takes place in St Margaret's Church, please follow main visitor entry route through the security check where the event will be signposted.

Access and security 

Please have your ticket ready to show our staff (either printed or on your mobile phone). 

​​On your arrival, your bag will be searched and we ask you not to bring any large items with you (for example suitcases, large backpacks or folding bicycles) as these will not be allowed inside and we are unable to store them for you. 

​​The Abbey is committed to creating inclusive and accessible events for all. If you have any access requirements or questions about your visit, please contact us when booking. [email protected] 

Filming and photography 

​​Please note that filming and sound recording are not permitted in St Margaret's. See our photography policy for more information. 

Commonwealth season

This event is part of the Commonwealth season. Join us in February and March to consider the Commonwealth’s rich history, evolving relevance and celebrate Commonwealth Day.