1.   Both sides claimed Kashmir, which had a mostly Muslim population and a Hindu prince.

2.   Even when British colonialists controlled India, they allowed many of the Maharajas, or Hindu princes, to maintain power over their principalities.

3.   Even when British colonialists controlled India they allowed many of the Maharajas, or Hindu princes, to maintain power over their kingdoms, often known as principalities.

4.   The Hindu prince of the state asked for Indian help when combatants from Pakistan crossed the border.

5.   The Hindu prince opted to stay in India even though most of his subjects were Muslims.