Madasingh (Maharajadhiraj Mirza Maharao Sri Madansinhji Vijayaraji Sawai Bahadur) was the last ruler of Kutch. After Independence in 1947, the Majarajah's were going to be out of a job. He ruled for a short time in 1948 until Kutch was completely merged into the Union of India.
There are 4 homes (palaces) which I visited. The decorations were a little odd if you ask me : A coffin in the sitting room to start with. Featured lots of stuffed animals that the royalty had been out and shot. Often there were photos of the day in question with the royal family standing over some poor dead beast.
Also photos of the royals with the Mazarati and other grand cars.
Sharad Baug Palace
Damaged due to earthquake of 2001
Remains unrepaired
This was the second residence on the property and is now a museum.
LOTS of silver and presents from visiting dignitaries
A coffin (empty) in the parlour. And who wouldn't have their coffin in the parlour I ask you?
Madasingh died in London and was brought home in this coffin.
And LOTS of dead stuffed animals or their parts.
What do you do with your spare elephant tusks and tiger head?
Make it into a clock of course.
The dining room with a HUGE stuffed tiger - would have put me off my meal.
This is a leopard on the wall
And more elephant tusks with a tiger head
The photo above shows the proud Maharajah standing over the dead animal
Quite liked this - the gate house - now a plant nursery.
Could be in Italy or France.
The royal Palaces.
- Sharadbagh Palace Remained the king residence until Madasingh, the last ruler of Kachchh died in 1991.
- Aina Mahal (Palace of Mirrors) built in 1761 under Maharao Lakhpatji
- Pragmahal Palace Commissioned by Maharao Pragmalji II in 1865 Same complex as Aina Mahal.
- Villa Vijays summer retreat in Mandvi - separate post on Villa Vijays
Madansinhji (12 October 1909 - 21 June 1991) belonged to a new breed of Royalty, who placed their education, contacts and skills at the disposal of the new India.[2] As the last ruler of Kutch, he was very close to Jawaharlal Nehru. He joined Indian Foreign Service in 1953, served as Hon Minister-Counselor at London1953-1956, Ambassador to Norway 1957-1960, and Chile 1960-1961.[2] In 1962 his brother Himmatsinhji became the member of the Lok Sabharepresenting the Kutch community.[8]
The family were very respected by the community.
He died on 21 June 1991 in London and his eldest son Pragmulji III was named as his successor, scion of Jadeja dynasty and Maharaja of Kutch.[2] There were some disputes leading to court case, which started during his lifetime and continued after his death towards his estate worth millions.[10]
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