IVORY THRONE Paperback

"IVORY THRONE: Chronicles of the House of Travancore" by Manu S. Pillai is a meticulously researched and vividly narrated historical account that spans two centuries of intrigue and transformation within one of India's premier princely states. Beginning with Vasco da Gama's arrival in Kerala in 1498, the book details the ensuing political upheaval and the rise of Martanda Varma, who forged the dominion of Travancore. However, the core of this expansive saga focuses on the remarkable life of Sethu Lakshmi Bayi, the last forgotten queen of the House of Travancore, and her dynastic feud with her cousin Sethu Parvathi Bayi on the eve of Indian Independence. Pillai masterfully weaves together political conspiracies, palace intrigues, cultural shifts, and the complexities of matrilineal succession, bringing to life a vibrant cast of characters and shedding light on the socio-economic evolution of Kerala. This acclaimed work offers a compelling blend of history and storytelling, making it an indispensable read for those interested in Indian history, royalty, and the dynamics of power in the age of empire.