The Jagannath Temple in Vadodara, situated within the Dhairyasheel Palace compound, not only showcases architectural marvels but also holds a rich historical narrative. Built by Sayaji Gaekwad for his son Dhairyasheel Gaekwad, the palace and its adjoining temples reflect the grandeur and cultural patronage of the Gaekwad dynasty. Central to the temple’s history is a 500-year-old family temple housing an…
Palace
This lost palace was constructed during the early 19th century under the reign of Maharaja Anandrao Gaekwad, specifically for his son Balwantrao Gaekwad. Unfortunately, Maharaja Anandrao Gaekwad passed away before the completion of the palace. Subsequently, Sayajirao II ascended the throne. Balwantrao Gaekwad and his family are known to have resided in the palace for a time. However, after Balwantrao’s…
The Amreli Rajmahal was constructed by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III in 1892 as his residence. This two-storey palace features magnificent windows. In its early days, it hosted ‘Lok Durbar’ gatherings when Amreli was part of the Baroda State. In later years, the palace also served as government offices. A bronze statue of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III proudly stands in front…
When Baroda was conquered in 1721 by the Gaekwads, Patan acted as one of the administrative headquarters. Later, this was shifted to Mehsana district in 1902, as it was connected to Baroda via GBSR (Gaekwar’s Baroda State Railways). With one of the administrative headquarters being set up in Mehsana, a place for the royalty had to be the next thing…
The Mobile Palace, once known as the Delhi Pavilion, now serves as the Maharani Chimnabai Ladies Club, located beside the Bird Zoo at Sayaji Baug (Kamati Baug). Originally commissioned by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, this unique wooden structure was designed to be his residence during the Delhi Durbar of 1911. Royal Opulence: Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III’s response to accommodation options…
Shiv Mahal Palace, located near Chakli Circle in the Race-course area, is one of the many palaces built by the Gaekwads in Baroda. Constructed around 1936, it was built for Shivajirao Gaekwad, the third son of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III. Shivajirao was known for his involvement in cricket, which became an important part of the Gaekwad family’s legacy. A Legacy…
Built in the midst of what would have been extensive gardens, the Makarpura Palace was commissioned by Maharaja Khanderao Gaekwad in 1870. The palace was built as a summer residence and a hunting resort for the royal family. The site of the palace was specially selected due to its proximity to the vast deer reserves, for hunting. Maharaja Khanderao spent…
Situated amid expansive gardens, mango orchards, and sprawling fields, the Lukshmi Vilas Palace is one of the most luxurious residences ever built. Commissioned by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III in 1880, it is said to be four times the size of the Buckingham Palace. Completed around 1890, the majestic palace has been the residence of the Gaekwads, the rulers of the…
Motibaug Palace is a small villa situated on the grounds of Lukshmi Vilas Palace, dating back to the reign of Maharaja Ganpatrao Gaekwad. Originally used as a guesthouse to complement the Lukshmi Vilas Palace, during its construction, the villa served as the residence for British architects and engineers. It is also noted that Motibaug Palace was Maharaja Pratapsinhrao Gaekwad’s residence…
Indumati Mahal is a palace located just opposite Lukshmi Vilas Palace. Built in the 1880s, it was renamed in honor of Sayajirao’s granddaughter, Princess Indumati Raje, who was also the sister of Maharaja Pratapsinhrao Gaekwad. Historically, the palace housed photographs of the royal family and a collection of historic books. It also stored ceremonial cannons used to salute Sayajirao III…