Name: The Last Royals of Lahore
Start: 2026-05-14T00:00
End: 2026-05-15T00:00
Location: Kensington Palace

In conversation with Peter Bance, hosted by Polly Putnam

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When

Thursday 14 May 2026

17:30 - 19:00

Where

The Orangery, Kensington Palace

Booking information

Ticket prices: £20 adult, £18 members (a glass of sparkling wine and canapes).
Book price: £44.99 (available to purchase on the evening).

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Events

Join us at the the Orangery for The Last Royals of Lahore: The Duleep Singhs, In conversation with Peter Bance. Hosted by Polly Putnam, exhibition curator for the Last Princesses of Punjab at Kensington Palace.

Peter's third book on the Duleep Singh family explores the lives of Maharajah Duleep Singh’s children, using newly uncovered archives and first‑hand accounts.

About the book

This richly illustrated volume showcases over 550 images and artefacts, revealing fascinating stories. These include Princess Sophia’s work as a Suffragette, Princess Catherine’s efforts to rescue Jewish refugees from Nazi Germany, Prince Victor’s links to Indian revolutionaries during WWI, and Prince Frederick’s contributions to preserving art and architecture.

The book also shares fresh insights into Maharani Bamba’s early life in Cairo. Published alongside the Last Princesses of Punjab exhibition, the book aligns with a major display focusing on the remarkable women of the Duleep Singh family.

Author information

Peter Bance is a leading biographer on the Duleep Singh family, drawing upon nearly 30 years of independent research and an unparalleled personal collection of documents, textiles, artefacts and photographs. These are exhibited at institutions such as Kensington Palace, the V&A and the British Museum.

Author of several significant works—including The Photograph Album of Queen Victoria’s Maharajah and Sovereign, Squire & Rebel, Peter has contributed to major academic and cultural publications. He has also appeared on BBC, ITV and Channel 4, and lectured internationally at renowned universities and museums.

Peter's work has informed films and music projects, supported the rediscovery and restoration of key Duleep Singh burial sites, and continues to shape public understanding of the family through exhibitions, memorials and annual commemorations.