Mukesh Ambani, the chairman of Reliance Industries, lives in Antilia, a ₹15,000 crore ultra-luxurious skyscraper in Mumbai. Considered one of the most expensive homes in the world, Antilia is no less than a modern-day palace. However, there is a woman in India who resides in a house even more expensive than Antilia.
Who is She?We are talking about Maharani Radhikaraje Gaekwad, the wife of Maharaja Samarjitsinh Gaekwad of Baroda. She lives in the magnificent Lakshmi Vilas Palace, a grand estate valued at ₹25,000 crore.
Located in Vadodara, Gujarat, the Lakshmi Vilas Palace is an architectural marvel and one of the largest private residences in the world. This breathtaking palace is the ancestral home of the Gaekwad royal family and has been their residence for generations.
Mind-Blowing Features of the Palace- Sprawling Over 700 Acres – It is four times bigger than Buckingham Palace, the residence of the British royal family.
- 170 Rooms – Each room is intricately designed, showcasing royal grandeur.
- Lavish Gardens & Private Golf Course – The estate features lush gardens and even a private 10-hole golf course.
- Swimming Pool & Stables – The palace also has a massive stable for royal horses and a stunning swimming pool.
- Built in 1890 for ₹27 Lakh – The palace was constructed under the supervision of British architect Major Charles Mant. At the time, it cost ₹27 lakh (approximately £180,000).
Maharani Radhikaraje Gaekwad hails from the Wankaner royal family, a princely state from Gujarat's Morbi district. She is the daughter of Dr. M.K. Ranjitsinh Jhala, a former IAS officer who renounced his royal title to serve in the Indian government.
- She completed her BA in History (Hons.).
- Before becoming a queen, she worked as a journalist with The Indian Express.
Maharaja Samarjitsinhrao Gaekwad is the 16th ruler of the Gaekwad dynasty, ascending the throne in 2012. He and Maharani Radhikaraje Gaekwad have two daughters:
A part of the Lakshmi Vilas Palace is open to tourists from across India and the world. Visitors come from far and wide to admire its royal beauty.
- Entry Fee: ₹200 per person
- Timings: 10:30 AM – 5:30 PM (Tuesday to Sunday) (Closed on Mondays)
