Heritage Preservation and Political Legitimisation: Creating a Usable Past in Gwalior State

This paper analyses how the Scindia rulers of Gwalior invoked the past to shape their image as progressive rulers, positioning themselves as the custodians of the archaeological heritage of their state. By actively engaging in the preservation and promotion of architectural sites within their domain, they not only upheld the traditional responsibilities of an ideal ruler but also asserted their autonomy in heritage management, subtly appropriating agency from the British government as ‘protectors’ of archaeological heritage within their territory. The Gwalior durbar’s publications played a crucial role in portraying the Scindias as the principal guardians of the region’s monumental heritage. This representation projected Gwalior state as a premier tourist destination, attracting scholars and travellers. By demonstrating their commitment to both tradition and modernity, the Scindias sought to solidify their legitimacy as progressive rulers within the changing political landscape of colonial India, when princes had to continually negotiate their relevance.