During the illustrious reign of the Gaekwads, the Baroda State Anthem was a symbol of respect and admiration for Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III. This anthem was a tribute to the Maharaja’s vision and contributions to the beloved city of Sayaji Nagri.
The Anthem’s Lyrics
The Baroda State Anthem was sung at all significant occasions, festivities, and events throughout the Baroda State. The lyrics of the anthem are:
Isha Thevo Srimant Shri Sayaji Maharaj Nrupati Sukhi,
Bhagyashali ya Nrupati che Rajya Amhasi Sukhkar ho,
Nrupati Sada Sukhi Aaso
These lines reflect the reverence and gratitude of the people towards Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III and his prosperous rule.
The Meaning of the Anthem
In translation, the anthem expresses: “May the esteemed Shri Sayaji Maharaj, the King, always be happy. The fortunate King’s reign brings prosperity and joy to the realm. May the King forever remain blissful.” This heartfelt tribute reflects the profound gratitude of the people for the Maharaja’s visionary leadership and the flourishing era under his rule.
Authorship and Significance
It is noted that the anthem was composed by Raj Kavi Kashikar, a distinguished poet who served at Maharaja Sayajirao’s Durbar. His words captured the essence of the Maharaja’s reign and were a vital part of the state’s ceremonial life.
Gujarati Version
For those interested in the complete Gujarati version of the anthem, it is as follows:
શ્રી પ્રભુ આપો દીર્ધઆયુ શ્રી સયાજી મહારાજ નૃપતિને ,
શાંતિદાતા એ નૃપનું સુરાજ્ય જગત માં અચલ રહો.
કીર્તિવંત વિશ્વ માં થજો
ભાગ્યશાળી નૃપતિ સદા એ ગણાજો ,હે વિશ્વાધીપતિ !
આરોગ્ય નૃપતિને સારૂ આપજો;
સૌખ્ય માં , સર્વદા , એ નૃપતિ વસો
શત્રુઓ સૌ નાશ પામજો.
અચલ અમલ ન્યાય થકી નિજપ્રજા પ્રતિદિન ,
પ્રતિપાલન નૃપ ! કરજો;
નીતિમાન ગુર્જરાધિપતિ ! અમર તપો ;
વિભો ! સંપતિ , સંતતિ , સન્મતિ , સત્કૃતી,
સો એ ભૂપને આપજો !
Meaning of the Anthem
The anthem offers a profound prayer for Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, seeking divine blessings for his long life and enduring well-being. It wishes that his just and peace-bringing rule remains steadfast and respected throughout the world. The anthem hopes for the Maharaja to achieve global renown and continued happiness. It prays for his good health, perpetual comfort, and the defeat of all adversaries. Through unwavering and fair justice, the anthem calls for the Maharaja to protect and care for his subjects diligently. It also expresses a desire for the Maharaja to be endowed with wealth, progeny, good fortune, and noble virtues, affirming his esteemed and virtuous leadership.
This anthem remains a cherished part of Baroda’s rich historical and cultural heritage.
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