From The Express Tribune · AFP · · 1m
India's royals adapt to modern life
Former Indian royalty finds new roles in politics, business and cultural preservation.
In brief
Former Indian royalty finds new roles in politics, business and cultural preservation. India's former royal families are adapting to modern life through politics, business and cultural preservation after losing their kingdoms. Originally reported by The Express Tribune.
Maharani of Baroda
48-year-old Radhikaraje Gaekwad presides over a modern business empire from her palace in Vadodara, India.
“The key has been that we have adapted”
Cultural preservation
Gaekwad works to preserve art accumulated by generations of rulers to strengthen community identity.
“A glimpse of what was left behind... can bring that sense of identity and pride back in their roots”
Historical context
Under British rule, 565 princely states enjoyed nominal autonomy across 40% of India's land.
Political engagement
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government seeks royal heritage to reinforce national narratives and identity.
“There is a quest for heroes”
Museum project
Modi laid the foundation stone for a $39 million Museum of Royal Kingdoms near Vadodara in 2018.
“the site near Vadodara lies beside the world's tallest statue”
Cultural ambassadors
Royal families act as stewards of tradition through cultural exhibitions and heritage preservation.
“The royal families are custodians of heritage”
Modern adaptations
Some royal families have turned palaces into hotels and run foundations for marginalized groups.
“We're just the bards and storytellers between the past and future”
What matters most
India's former royal families are adapting to modern life through politics, business and cultural preservation after losing their kingdoms.
