When you think of opulent residences, names like Mukesh Ambani’s Antilia, the Adani family, or the Birlas might pop into your mind. But let me introduce you to a hidden gem that might just leave you in awe. The world’s largest private residence, according to DNA and HT Mint, is not in the possession of these renowned Indian families. Instead, it’s the Laxmi Vilas Palace in Vadodara that takes the crown. Owned by the Gaekwads of Baroda, this colossal estate surpasses even the grandeur of Buckingham Palace and stands as a testament to India’s rich heritage.
A Glimpse of the Past: The Birth of Laxmi Vilas Palace
This magnificent palace has a history dating back to 1890 when it was brought to life by none other than Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III. Gaekwad III, who reigned as the Maharaja of Baroda State from 1875 to 1939, was part of the illustrious Gaekwad dynasty of the Marathas, which ruled over parts of present-day Gujarat. In fact, it’s fascinating to note that the Laxmi Vilas Palace was the most expensive building constructed by a private individual in the 19th century, according to records from the British Library. And today, this royal heritage is under the guardianship of HRH Samarjitsinh Gaekwad, a former cricketer who inherited this architectural marvel in 2012.
Meet HRH Samarjitsinh Gaekwad: The Modern Maharaja Laxmi Vilas
Samarjitsinh Gaekwad, the only son of Ranjitsinh Pratapsinh Gaekwad and Shubhanginiraje, officially became the Maharaja after the passing of his father. The regal coronation ceremony took place within the grandeur of the Laxmi Vilas Palace on June 22, 2012. His journey to this title wasn’t without its challenges, though. In 2013, after a long-standing inheritance dispute with his uncle, Sangramsinh Gaekwad, Samarjitsinh Gaekwad finally secured his position as the sole owner of the palace.
The Architectural Wonder of Laxmi Vilas Palace
The Laxmi Vilas Palace showcases an extravagant Indo-Saracenic Revival architectural style, originally crafted by Major Charles Mant. This renowned architect was known for his work on other palaces in Kolhapur and Darbhanga. Interestingly, Major Mant himself had doubts about the structural stability of this magnificent edifice and, tragically, took his own life before its completion. Nevertheless, the palace has withstood the test of time, standing proudly even after more than a century.
But what truly makes the Laxmi Vilas Palace an architectural marvel isn’t just its vastness. It’s also the luxurious amenities it offers. Back in the day, it featured elevators, a rarity in that era. In the 1930s, a golf course was added for European guests. Later, in the 1990s, Samarjitsinh Gaekwad revamped the palace, introducing a 10-hole golf course and clubhouse within the palace grounds. And guess what? This golf course is now open to the public.
Hidden Gems Within the Palace Grounds
The massive estate is more than just a palace. It houses LVP Banquets and Conventions, Moti Bagh Palace, and the Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum Building. The museum building, once a school for the royal family’s children, now holds a remarkable art collection, including paintings by Raja Ravi Verma. One of the unique features of this building is a miniature railway line, which the Maharaja constructed for his children to commute. Later, Ranjitsinh Pratapsinh Gaekwad refurbished the engine, and now, it’s proudly displayed at the museum’s entrance.
The Moti Bagh Cricket Ground isn’t your average cricket ground; it also features a teak-floored tennis and badminton court. They even hosted the All India Badminton Championships here. The place is also home to the Baroda Cricket Association’s office and other facilities like a gym, a clubhouse, a swimming pool, and, believe it or not, another golf course. To add a touch of adventure, there’s even a pond within the palace grounds that’s inhabited by several crocodiles.
According to Housing.com, the Laxmi Vilas Palace sprawls over a staggering 3,04,92,000 square feet and boasts an astounding 170 rooms. To put it into perspective, this palace dwarfs Mukesh Ambani’s residence, Antilia, which spans 48,780 square feet, and makes Buckingham Palace, with its modest 828,821 square feet, look almost quaint. And if you’re wondering about the initial cost, Zee News reports that in 1890, it was built at an astonishing expense of GBP 180,000. Today, its estimated worth exceeds a whopping Rs 24,000 crores.
The Darbar Hall and a Glimpse into History
Another highlight within the Laxmi Vilas Palace is the Darbar Hall, adorned with a Venetian mosaic floor. But what truly makes the palace’s interior stand out is its exquisite chandeliers, an impressive armoury, captivating sculpture collections, intricate mosaics, and priceless artworks. This gives us a glimpse into the rich and vibrant history of the Gaekwad Dynasty.
And for history buffs, the palace complex also houses a historical site—the Navlakhi stepwell, which dates back to 1405 AD. It’s a testament to the enduring legacy of this architectural masterpiece.
A Bollywood Connection
Laxmi Vilas Palace isn’t just a historical marvel; it’s also been the backdrop for several popular Bollywood films. From “Prem Rog” to “Dil Hi Toh Hai,” “Sardar Gabbar Singh,” and “Grand Masti,” this palace has served as a picturesque setting for countless cinematic moments.
The Current Residents
Today, the Laxmi Vilas Palace is home to HRH Samarjitsinh Gaekwad, his wife Radhikaraje Gaekwad, and their two daughters. It’s a royal residence that not only stands as a testament to India’s rich heritage but also serves as a remarkable example of architectural brilliance. So, if you ever find yourself in Vadodara, don’t forget to pay a visit to this hidden gem – the Laxmi Vilas Palace – and get lost in its grandeur and history.
