In the heart of India’s regal heritage lies the inspiring tale of Maharani Radhikaraje Gaekwad of Baroda, Gujarat. Known for her grace, intellect, and modern outlook, she has earned the title of India’s “most progressive Maharani.” Despite her royal upbringing in the lavish Laxmi Vilas Palace, Maharani Radhika has forged her own unique path, defying traditional expectations associated with her lineage and seamlessly blending tradition with contemporary ideals. While upholding the prestige of her titular lineage, Maharani Radhikaraje Gaekwad’s story is a testament to the power of embracing individuality, who forge an identity beyond the traditional.
About Radhikaraje Gaekwad
Hailed as one of India’s most beautiful queens, her story stands out from conventional royal tales. Born on July 19, 1978, into the Wankaner Royal Family, she embraced simplicity despite her royal heritage. Inspired by her father, Dr. M. K. Ranjitsinh Jhala, who gave up his title to serve as an IAS officer, Radhikaraje pursued a career in writing and history. She pursued a bachelor’s degree in history, worked as a writer for The Indian Express, and completed her master’s in medieval history from Lady Shri Ram College (LSR) in Delhi, blending tradition with modernity.
In 2002, Radhikaraje Gaekwad’s life embraced royalty when she married Maharaja Samarjitsinh Gaekwad of Baroda. They are parents to two daughters, Princess Padmajaraje and Princess Narayaniraje. The family resides in the magnificent Laxmi Vilas Palace, an iconic symbol of Baroda’s regal history. Spanning 600 acres, the palace is a blend of royal grandeur and modernity, with portions open to the public, offering a glimpse of its storied past.
Maharani Radhikaraje Gaekwad is an avid supporter of India’s heritage crafts and handlooms, advocating for their preservation. She is also a vocal ally of the LGBTQ+ community, organizing fundraisers and collaborating with queer organizations to promote their rights. Her vibrant social media presence furthers this cause, where she partners with queer activists to raise awareness and champion equality.
She has previously mentioned in interviews that she encourages her daughters to be financially independent and follow their own paths. Her modern approach to parenting, combined with her work in promoting culture and social causes, sets her apart. Recently, she was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Arts from the University of East London in recognition of her contributions to culture, diversity, and inclusion.
Laxmi Vilas Palace
Laxmi Vilas Palace, the residence of the Royal Family of Baroda, is recognized as the world’s largest private residence, spanning 700 acres. Commissioned by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad in the 1880s during the Indo-Saracenic Revival architectural movement, it was built for 18,000 GBP and is four times larger than Buckingham Palace. Even the wealthiest businessman in Asia, Mukesh Ambani’s Antilia, is no match in front of the couple’s Laxmi Vilas Palace.
The palace features 170 rooms, two expansive courtyards, exquisite marbled floors, and mosaics, along with a priceless collection of armory and paintings, including masterpieces by Raja Ravi Varma. Today, its estimated value is around Rs 24,000 crore.