Born into a Maratha family from Kolhapur, Maharani Shantadevi was the first wife of Maharaja Pratapsinhrao Gaekwad. Her father was Sardar Hausrkar Mansinhrao Subbarao of Hasur. At the age of 13, Shantadevi was engaged to Pratapsinhrao. When she came to Baroda to meet Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, he was immediately impressed by her. The marriage was solemnized on January 4, 1929, in a grand ceremony held at the Nazarbaug Palace.
Family and Legacy
Maharani Shantadevi and Maharaja Pratapsinhrao had eight children, including three sons and five daughters. Their eldest son, Fatehsinhrao II, succeeded his father as king after Pratapsinhrao was deposed by the Indian Government.
Public Welfare and Contributions
Maharani Shantadevi was deeply involved in public welfare activities. She founded the Maharani Shantadevi Hospital, dedicated to providing medical care to the poor. Additionally, she served as the president of the Kamatibaug Women’s Club (Maharani Chimnabai Ladies Club), located within Sayajibaug.
Final Years and Passing
Maharani Shantadevi passed away on May 22, 2002, due to health-related issues. Ironically, she died in the very hospital she had established, leaving behind a legacy of compassion and service to the community.
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