The British and Indian PrincesIn many parts of colonial India, the British governed indirectly, through traditional authorities known as “princes.” Here Prince Mahadaji Sindhia entertains two British military officers at a traditional Indian nautch, or dance concert, performed by professional Indian dancing girls around 1820. Stylistically it differs from the other images in this selection because it was created by an Indian artist rather than a British one. What does this image suggest about British efforts to relate to Indian elites and Indian culture?British Library, London, UK/© British Library Board. All Rights Reserved/Bridgeman Images