Born on 2 April 1930 in Baroda, Fatehsinghrao Prataprao Gaekwad was the son of Pratap Singh Gaekwad, the last ruling Maharaja of Baroda, and Maharani Shantadevi Sahib Gaekwad. He became the titular Maharaja of Baroda in 1951 after his father’s deposition by the Government of India.
Political Career
Fatehsinghrao’s political career was distinguished and multifaceted. He served as a Member of Parliament and Parliamentary Secretary of the Defense Ministry. He was also an MLA in Gujarat, where he held several ministerial roles including Health, Fisheries, and Jails. Additionally, he was Chancellor of the Maharaja Sayajirao University in Baroda and Chairman of the Board of Governors at the National Institute of Sports.
Cricketing Achievements
An accomplished cricketer, Fatehsinghrao represented Baroda in the Ranji Trophy from 1946 to 1958, achieving a highest score of 99. Known in England as “Jackie Baroda,” he managed Indian tours to England and Pakistan. His contributions to cricket extended to his role as President of the Board of Control for Cricket in India from 1963 to 1966, and he was honored with an honorary life membership from the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC).
Literary Work
In 1980, he authored “The Palaces of India,” reflecting his deep interest in Indian history and heritage.
Legacy
Fatehsinghrao Gaekwad passed away on 1 February 1988 in Bombay. His younger brother, Ranjitsinhrao Gaekwad, succeeded him as the titular Maharaja. Fatehsinghrao’s diverse contributions to politics, cricket, and literature continue to be celebrated as key elements of Baroda’s rich history.
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