Over the decades, we have seen so many luxurious private residences in India and across the globe. While some are famous for their architecture, most of them are renowned for their luxury and cost. In recent years, business mogul, Mukesh Ambani had garnered all the attention when he introduced his 27-storey skyscraper, Antilia, to the world on November 25, 2010. If the reports are to be believed, it is the most expensive private residence in the world.
However, not everyone knows that Mukesh Ambani’s Antilia isn’t the largest private residence in India. The honour goes to the luxurious and royal Laxmi Vilas Palace, which was built by the Gaekwads of Baroda. Laxmi Vilas Palace is the largest private residence in the country which is in Vadodara. However, before we get into the details of Laxmi Vilas Palace, it’s important to know the roots and background of the Gaekwads of Baroda.
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The Gaekwads were a Hindu Maratha dynasty that held power over the Maratha Empire and, later, the princely state of Baroda in western India. From the early 18th century until 1947, they ruled as the Maharaja Gaekwad of Baroda. They were among the largest and most prosperous princely states alongside British India.
Their wealth was derived from lucrative ventures like the cotton industry and the production of rice, wheat, and sugar. Their influence and affluence left a significant mark on the region's history.
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The Gaekwads of Baroda, who were once the rulers of the city, continue to hold a special place in the hearts of the people of Vadodara, despite the abolishment of the monarchy system by the Indian government after independence in 1947.
The current head of the royal family is Samarjitsinh Gaekwad, who is married to Radhikaraje Gaekwad. The locals of Vadodara still show deep respect and regard for the Gaekwad dynasty, honouring their historical significance and cultural heritage.
The famous Laxmi Vilas Palace spans an impressive area of 3,04,92,000 square feet. The luxurious property reportedly boasts over 170 royal rooms. In comparison, Buckingham Palace covers 828,821 square feet, which is around four times smaller than the Laxmi Vilas Palace.
Mukesh Ambani's Antilia is also spread across 48,780 square feet compared to the extravagant Laxmi Vilas Palace. These figures highlight the grandeur and vastness of the Laxmi Vilas Palace in terms of its size and room count.
Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III commissioned the construction of the opulent Laxmi Vilas Palace back in 1890. As per the reports, it was built with a construction cost of approximately GBP 180,000. The palace, renowned for its lavishness, also features a golf course, adding to its grandeur and providing recreational amenities to its residents and guests.
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The Darbar Hall of Laxmi Vilas Palace boasts an exquisite Venetian mosaic floor, adding to its splendour. Adjacent to the Darbar, a magnificent garden stretches out, adorned with beautiful water fountains. The palace is also home to an impressive collection of ancient armouries and sculptures, showcasing its rich heritage.
Additionally, Laxmi Vilas Palace accommodates the LVP Banquets and Conventions, Moti Bagh Palace, and the Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum Building, further enhancing its allure as a cultural and event venue.
The extravagant grandeur of Laxmi Vilas Palace needs no further introduction, which is why there are so many filmmakers, who opted to use the palace as a set for their films. Some of the famous films which were shot inside the Laxmi Vilas Palace are the likes of Prem Rog, Dil Hi Toh Hai, Grand Masti, and Sardar Gabbar Singh.
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The Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum, located within the Laxmi Vilas Palace compound, houses a remarkable collection of rare paintings by the renowned artist, Raja Ravi Verma.
Furthermore, the palace complex includes the Moti Bagh Cricket Ground, which offers a range of recreational facilities such as a swimming pool, clubhouse, gymnasium, and golf course. These amenities add to the luxurious and leisurely ambience of the palace estate.
Well, we are in love with the Laxmi Vilas Palace, which is India’s largest private residence. What are your thoughts about the same? Let us know.
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