It is about how to relate Queen Elizabeth’s death to the past colonial system and present India.
The death of Queen Elizabeth II not only reminds the past of the British Colonial system but also shows the dominance of growing independent India on the monarchy system.
This is an indication of how much the relationship between the British royals and their former colonies has changed. Soon after becoming independent in 1947, India removed the British monarch as its head of state.
But in spite of facing a difficult colonial past, the relationship between India and the British Royal family is symbiotic.
India’s relationship with Britain has remained cordial after gaining independence. They visit many times and always try to maintain a good friendship.
At present, India is in a stronger position than Britain in terms of the economy. India’s economy surpassed that of its colonial masters. Just ahead of Britain, India’s GDP is now the fifth-largest in the world. Now the situation is such that Britain is taking debt as a measure of financial help from India.
It would have happened much earlier if British colonial rulers hadn’t extracted so much of India’s wealth and resources. But forgetting British colonialism in India is not possible because their colonial policies and systems are still affecting the lives of Indians.
Mixed reactions of Indians to the death of Queen Elizabeth II
There is an indication of a mixed reaction to the death of the queen in India. Some were mourning and some were showing anti-colonial anger. A deal for the Kohinoor diamond with Britain is something that some Indians would like to see happen.
The Colonial British Raj in India
The colonial system of the British Raj in India lasted from 1858 to 1947. Their rule is known as “crown rule” because the monarchy system seated in England ruled here for 200 years.
The colonial past of India witnessed the control of Britishers over the economy, political governance, commercial and industrial infrastructure, and even over the social culture of Indian society as well.
Britain under Elizabeth II reign
The mother of the newly appointed King Charles III, she ruled over the United Kingdom for seven decades. She is considered Britain’s first and the world’s second longest-serving ruler.
She is known for her committed work related to social, political, and economic concerns during her reign. A day before September 8th, Buckingham Palace said that the Queen is unwell. She is placed under medical supervision. But at that time too.
she was concerned about a virtual meeting with her privy council members. Earlier, three days before her death, she called newly elected Prime Minister Liz Truss to her castle to appoint her.
Elizabeth II’s views of India
Elizabeth II acceded to the throne at the age of 25, after her father’s death in 1952. She started her reign after the five years of India’s independence. She said that the hospitality, richness, and diversity of India are an inspiration to all of them.
As the first Prime Minister of India, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru invited the Queen to visit India. On her first visit, she addressed the people at the national capital, Delhi’s Ramleela ground. She also paid tribute to the Father of Nation, Mahatma Gandhi, at Raj Ghat.
Current Update
In the afternoon of Thursday, September 8th, Britain’s longest reigning monarch, Queen Elizabeth II died. She took her last breath in Scotland’s Aberdeenshire at her Balmoral Castle. The Royal family announced her death by saying that she died peacefully. For many people around the world, her passing prompted feelings of deep sadness and grief.
The 96-year-old queen’s funeral, or last rites, took place yesterday at Westminster Abbey in London. World leaders gathered in London for the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II. India’s President, Droupadi Murmu, also reached London on Sunday to attend the funeral. There was a huge farewell ceremony organized for the last 10 days after her death.
After the Queen’s death, her son, King Charles III succeeded the throne and was proclaimed the new monarch.
Read More: India’s former royal families talk about hosting Queen Elizabeth II’s visit to India
