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 at the Delhi Durbar could have been humorously envisioned: “No thank you, I carry my home with me!” Reflecting this sentiment, the Mobile Palace was crafted to be both luxurious and transportable. Designed with the grandeur of a royal palace, it captured the imagination of onlookers in Delhi, who flocked to see the opulent structure. The palace was adorned with small lamps that illuminated its regal beauty in the evenings, adding to its allure.
The Structure:
Though significantly modified today, the Mobile Palace was originally 125 feet long and 50 feet wide. It featured one large room, two smaller rooms, a kitchen, and two additional rooms for facilities. Early photographs reveal a structure with Mughal-inspired embellishments, including pristine white chattris, domes, and intricately carved wooden panels. These elements have since been removed, replaced by hut-like roofs and a pitched roof covering the main space.
The exact method of transporting the Mobile Palace to Delhi is not documented, but it is believed to have been a folding tent assembled upon arrival. After serving its purpose in Delhi, the structure was returned to Baroda and later converted into a permanent fixture mounted on a platform.
Chimnabai Ladies Club:
Following its use as a royal residence, the Mobile Palace was repurposed as a club. Maharani Shantadevi later transformed it into the Chimnabai Ladies Club, named after Maharani Chimnabai II. The club was initially formed to discuss topics related to women’s empowerment and education, with about 35-50 members at its inception. Today, the club continues to serve as a venue for women’s discussions and activities.
Despite its current state, the Mobile Palace’s illustrious past remains a forgotten chapter, overshadowed by its transition from a symbol of royal magnificence to a functional community space.
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