British Raj Movies

From the arrival of a new viceroy to street markets, this amateur film captures the diversity of life in colonial India.

The future Edward VIII opens a durbar and enjoys a day at the races before inspecting the fire brigade in Calcutta.

The race is on - for the Viceroy's Cup.

The Duke rides an elephant as he ventures on safari in Bengal.

The Taj Mahal and shots of Jalandhar nestle between footage from Canada and Africa.

Motorcars take shape - outdoors in a Kolkata yard.

Indian high society enjoy themselves at a Calcutta garden party held to welcome the new Viceroy, Lord Irwin.

The thronging streets of Chennai in festive mood are captured by this lively amateur film.

The Governor of Bengal and family - on and off duty.

The Maharajah of Kapurthala and guests travel on elephants and men catch fish on the River Bias.

What’s the hidden message inside this intriguing film, shot at a Salvation Army establishment in western India?

Lady Pamela Lytton, wife of the Governor of Bengal, visits the grand marble Victoria Memorial in Calcutta.

Amateur film of a road trip through northeastern India, showing traditional dances and a gigantic flower float.

Luscious colour photography of the Taj Mahal and a Mediterranean cruise to Port Said.

The Maharajah of Jind inspects the guard of honour.

Evocative observational scenes of Simla and Lahore, including the gorgeous Shalimar Gardens and Anarkali Bazar.

A Christian take on 'Edenless' India, where heathens are unafraid of snakes, and build 'interesting' temples to their gods.

This amateur film gives us a fair idea of the opulent life enjoyed by members of the British government in India.