Step into the opulent world of Radhikaraje Gaekwad, a woman of
regal stature, residing in India’s largest private residence, surpassing even the grandeur of Mukesh Ambani’s Antilia. Spread across an astonishing area, exceeding Buckingham Palace, her abode is a testament to lavish living. The sheer magnitude of this residence, documented by Housing.com, showcases its prominence, exceeding 828,821 square feet.
To put this in perspective, Mukesh Ambani’s Antilia, renowned as the world’s costliest home at Rs 15,000 crore, pales in comparison, occupying a smaller space of 48,780 square feet. Radhikaraje Gaekwad’s dwelling stands not just as a residence but as a symbol of opulence that outshines even the most renowned architectural marvels.
Introduction: In the heart of Gujarat stands the awe-inspiring Laxmi Vilas Palace, a testament to opulence, history, and the remarkable journey of its current custodian, Radhikaraje Gaekwad. As the proud owner of India’s largest private residence, surpassing even Mukesh Ambani’s famed Antilia, Radhikaraje’s story is one of resilience, passion, and royal legacy.
The Grandeur of Laxmi Vilas Palace: The Gaekwads of Baroda, once rulers of the region, bestowed the world with the grandeur of Laxmi Vilas Palace. Led by HRH Samarjitsinh Gaekwad and Radhikaraje Gaekwad, this sprawling estate spans an astonishing 3,04,92,000 sq ft, overshadowing even Buckingham Palace. A symbol of regality, the palace holds more than 170 rooms and features a golf course, a testament to the lavish lifestyle embraced by its royal occupants.
Early Life and Education: Born on July 19, 1978, She emerged from the Wankaner state of Gujarat. Her father, Dr MK Ranjitsinh Jhala, opted for a career as an IAS officer, forsaking the royal title. She is passionate about literature, pursued a Master’s degree in Indian History from Lady Shri Ram College, Delhi University. Prior to marrying Maharaj Samarjit Singh Gaekwad in 2002, she made her mark as a journalist, showcasing her intellectual prowess.
Journey to Laxmi Vilas Palace: The journey to the grandeur of Laxmi Vilas Palace was not without its challenges. Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III laid the foundation in 1890 at a staggering cost of £180,000. Over the years, the palace witnessed the ebb and flow of history, symbolizing the resilience of the Gaekwad legacy.
Marriage and Royal Responsibilities: Her marriage to Maharaj Samarjit Singh Gaekwad in 2002 marked a significant chapter. In 2012, a traditional ceremony at Laxmi Vilas Palace formalized the transfer of the Baroda crown. With her passion for literature and rich heritage, assumed the role of custodian with grace and dignity.
Complexities of Modern Royalty: Navigating the complexities of being a modern royal, Radhikaraje Gaekwad’s story resonates with ambition and commitment. Her transition from journalism to the regal responsibilities of Laxmi Vilas Palace exemplifies a unique blend of tradition and modernity. As the custodian of India’s largest residence, She stands as a symbol of empowerment, preserving the legacy of Baroda with elegance and poise.
Bridging Heritage and Philanthropy
Born into the princely family of Wankaner, Gujarat, Maharani Radhikaraje Gaekwad of Baroda is not just a symbol of royalty but a dynamic force working towards cultural preservation and women empowerment. In an exclusive interview with Corporate Citizen, she shares her fascinating journey from a working girl in journalism to becoming a prominent figure in the world of heritage conservation and philanthropy.
Childhood and Early Life: Her childhood was marked by a forward-thinking family
that encouraged modernity amid the transitioning landscape of post-independent India. Her father’s role as an IAS officer set the tone for her upbringing, emphasizing the importance of adapting to change and contributing to society.
From Journalism to Royalty: After pursuing journalism, Radhikaraje transitioned into royalty through an arranged marriage with Maharaja Samarjitsinh Gaekwad. The union not only brought her into the historical Laxmi Vilas Palace but also into the realm of philanthropy and cultural preservation.
Philanthropic Endeavors: Her philanthropic efforts extend to various projects, including the documentation and preservation of the Laxmi Vilas Palace, a living museum. Her involvement in the Maharani Chimnabai Stree Udyogalaya reflects her commitment to empowering women through education, skill-building, and entrepreneurship.
Reviving Artisanal Crafts: Recognizing the plight of traditional artisans, Radhikaraje passionately advocates for their recognition and financial well-being. Through projects like the Crafts Design Society (CDS) Arts Foundation, she aims to bridge the gap between artisans and consumers, ensuring the survival of India’s rich craft heritage.
Challenges and Social Impact: Reflecting on the end of privy purses, She highlights its adverse effects on the cultural patronage provided by royal families. The abrupt halt impacted not only the families but also the entire ecosystem of craftsmen, musicians, and cultural practices that were nurtured by the patronage.
Personal and Family Life: In her personal life, Radhikaraje values authenticity, consistent communication, and shared ideologies as the pillars of a successful marriage. Her hands-on approach to parenting reflects her commitment to providing a diverse and enriched upbringing for her daughters.
Legacy of Laxmi Vilas Palace: Living in the sprawling Laxmi Vilas Palace, She considers it a privilege and a responsibility. The palace, four times larger than Buckingham Palace, stands as a testament to Indian architecture and artistry. Her focus on documentation ensures its preservation for future generations.
Conclusion: Maharani Radhikaraje Gaekwad emerges as a beacon of heritage conservation, women empowerment, and philanthropy. Her multifaceted journey from a journalist to a royal figure showcases her dedication to preserving India’s cultural richness while actively contributing to societal welfare. In her pursuit of bridging heritage and philanthropy, she continues to leave an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of Baroda. The regal splendor of Laxmi Vilas Palace becomes not just a residence but a living testament to her commitment to tradition and progress.
https://www.instagram.com/radhikaraje/?hl=en
https://bbbinsider.com/radhikaraje-gaekwad-the-regal-journey-to-leading-indias-largest-residence/