Jayamahal Palace

Palace By 2 Comments

Situated in the Malabar Hill area, Jayamahal Palace, also known as Jai Mahal Palace, was regarded as one of the most beautiful private residences ever built in Bombay (now Mumbai). Commissioned by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, likely in the 1900s, the palace stood proudly on the western side of the hill, offering views of the Arabian Sea.

Postcard of the HH The Gaekwad's Bungalow (Jayamahal Palace) at Napean Sea Road, Bombay
Image via www.past-india.com

Constructed in the Scottish style of architecture, the palace bore resemblance to the Kothi Building in Baroda. It was designed akin to a mini-LVP, featuring a double-storeyed magnificent Durbar and expansive gardens with a grand driveway.

In 1916, the Bombay Government requested to use the palace as a hospital for military officers, leading to certain alterations. Measures were taken to protect the stone and ironwork from the sea breeze, such as covering window heads with lead sheets. Additionally, modern amenities like electric lights and fans were installed in the officers’ quarters.

The Maharaja Gaekwad Hospital at Bombay
Image via Alamy Stock Photo

By 1919, the palace was returned to the Gaekwad family, who then undertook repairs and restoration work.

Regrettably, today only the compound walls of Jai Mahal Palace remain visible, notably from Priyadarshini Park on Napean Sea Road, Bombay.

Source: The Voice of Malabar Hills & Akshay Chavan

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2 Comments

  1. Prashant says:

    Beautiful palace…..!!!

  2. Elisabeth says:

    Thanks for the article! After reading “a Prinzessin remembers” i wondered where the palace is to be found today…

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