Amreli

Under the Gaekwad rule, Amreli was transformed into a majestic administrative hub, anchored by the grand Raj Mahal(palace) which served as the seat of Baroda State’s power in Kathiawar. The city’s skyline was defined by the iconic Tower, a regal clock tower that stood as a testament to the architectural elegance and disciplined governance of the Baroda State era.

Rajmahal Palace

The Rajmahal Palace stands as a magnificent testament to the visionary governance of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, who commissioned its construction in 1892, a date that can still be seen etched at the top of the palace. As a vital administrative hub for the former Baroda State, the palace was designed not only as a royal residence but as a space for civic engagement, where the Maharaja famously held ‘Lok Durbars’ to connect with his subjects. Architecturally, the two-story building is a striking example of the Gaekwad era’s signature style, blending ornate Indian craftsmanship with European structural influences, characterized by grand windows, intricate stone carvings, and a soaring presence that has dominated the local skyline for over a century.

Following India’s independence, the palace transitioned from a royal seat to a center for government administration, housing various district offices for several decades. 

The Statue of Maharaja

Bronze statue of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III stands above the Palace which was erected in 1935 to commemorate the Diamond Jubilee of his sixty-year reign in a commanding “King’s Pose.” The monument depicts the Maharaja with both hands resting firmly upon his sword, a gesture of steadfast protection and authority. As noted on the accompanying stone plaque, his gaze is directed upward toward the horizon, a deliberate artistic choice symbolizing the visionary foresight and progressive leadership he offered to his subjects throughout his long and transformative rule.

The historic palace is undergoing a significant restoration project aimed at preserving its architectural heritage. The renovation focuses on reviving the structure’s original grandeur by using traditional materials and craftsmanship to address years of wear and tear. Local authorities have initiated this process to ensure that the landmark remains a cultural symbol for future generations, transforming the site into a well-maintained heritage destination.

Clock Tower

The Amreli Clock Tower, a majestic landmark of the Gaekwad era, has officially returned to its former glory following a meticulous restoration project. Originally commissioned by the visionary Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III of the Baroda State, this 19th-century structure served as the civic heart of the city, blending functional timekeeping with imperial prestige. The recent inauguration marks a significant milestone in Gujarat’s heritage conservation, as the renovation team worked to stabilize the historic masonry and refurbish the iconic four-faced clock mechanism while preserving the authentic aesthetic that has defined the Amreli skyline for over a century.

Architecturally, the tower is a stunning specimen of Colonial Indo-Saracenic design, characterized by its multi-tiered verticality and intricate stone craftsmanship. The structure features a series of pointed arches and delicate Jharokha-style balconies supported by carved stone brackets, reflecting a fusion of Victorian engineering and traditional Indian motifs. Its tapered silhouette is finished with lime-plastered walls and ornamental cornices that showcase the sophisticated urban planning of the Baroda State. Standing as the anchor of the city’s central market, the Clock Tower remains more than just a historical relic; it is a living symbol of Amreli’s transition from the ancient settlement of Anumanji into a modern regional hub under the Gaekwad legacy.

Dhari, Amreli: Statue of Brave Boys of Dhari

In 1933, Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III went on a royal lion hunt in the forests near Dhari in present-day Amreli district. Among the spectators were two young Koli brothers, Arjan Koli and Hari Koli, who had hidden behind bushes to watch the hunt. During the expedition, the Maharaja fired at a lion but missed the shot. Within moments, the furious lion charged toward him, putting the Maharaja’s life in serious danger.

Without hesitation, the two brothers rushed forward armed only with their katars (traditional small swords). Showing extraordinary courage, Arjan and Hari fought the lion and killed it, saving the life of the Maharaja. Deeply impressed by their bravery, Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III later honoured both brothers in his royal court at Baroda and awarded them the title of “The Brave Hunting Boys of Dhari.”

To commemorate their heroic act, statues of Arjan Koli and Hari Koli were installed in Sayaji Baug (Kamati Baug) so future generations would remember the fearless brothers who saved the ruler of Baroda State. Even today, their story remains a proud symbol of bravery and courage in Gujarat’s history.