India's Lukshmi Vilas Palace

 

 India's Lukshmi Vilas Palace: Hidden secrets of the world's largest private residence

Commissioned in 1878 by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III and completed in 1890, the Lukshmi Vilas Palace in Vadodara, Gujarat, is far more than just one of the world’s largest private residences. The magnificent palace stands as a remarkable symbol of Indo-Saracenic architecture, a revivalist style widely embraced by British architects during the Raj era. Its grand design also reflects the rich exchange of ideas, craftsmanship and artistic traditions between global influences and local Indian artisans that shaped the country’s architectural heritage during that period.

Laxmi Vilas Palace is the residence of the Gaekwad family, a prominent Maratha dynasty. This dynasty ruled the princely state in western India—known today as Vadodara—from the early 18th century until 1947. Four kings of the Gaekwad lineage have been coronated at this historic palace; the most recent coronation took place in 2012, when H.H. Maharaja Samarjitsinh Ranjitsinh Gaekwad ascended the throne. His wife, H.H. Radhikaraje Gaekwad, the Maharani of Baroda, actively works towards the preservation and revival of India's traditional handicrafts and the empowerment of women. The royal couple has opened the doors of Laxmi Vilas Palace to the general public more widely than ever before. Dance festivals and vintage car shows are held annually within the palace's vast complex. Meanwhile, the magnificent Durbar Hall hosts musical performances, and various handicraft fairs are organized periodically in the public areas of the palace. This initiative has established the historic royal palace not merely as a symbol of royal heritage, but as a vibrant hub of art, culture, and tradition.

“Lukshmi Vilas Palace ultimately belongs to the people of India,” says Radhikaraje. “We are fortunate to have the privilege of calling it our home.” While visitors can explore several of the palace’s magnificent and intricately designed spaces, the queen offered AD an exclusive glimpse into some of its lesser-known rooms. During the private tour, she also shared fascinating stories and personal anecdotes, providing fresh insight into the royal residence’s remarkable history, heritage and grandeur.

How Big Is Vadodara’s Lukshmi Vilas Palace?

“The sheer scale of this palace is larger than life. I have lived here for 23 years, yet I still discover something new for the very first time,” says Radhikaraje, describing the remarkable 135-year-old Lukshmi Vilas Palace. Spread across an astounding 30.5 million square feet, the palace is regarded as one of the world’s largest private residences. It is said to be around ten times larger than Turkey’s White Palace and has a footprint 36 times the size of Buckingham Palace, making it an extraordinary example of grandeur, history and architectural magnificence.

The estate features a professional golf course and even an ancient baoli (step well) that dates back to the Mughal era, linking the site of this Hindu palace to one of the most prominent Islamic dynasties in history

Who designed Lukshmi Vilas Palace in India?

In 1878, Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III commissioned British architect Major Charles Mant to design the magnificent Lukshmi Vilas Palace. Mant, who had already designed several royal residences across India, including palaces in Bihar, Kolhapur and Darbhanga, envisioned the palace as one of his most ambitious architectural projects. Unfortunately, he passed away unexpectedly during the construction, before he could see his grand vision completed. The unfinished project was later taken over and brought to completion by renowned architect Robert Fellowes Chisholm.

To complement the grandeur of the palace, Maharaja Sayajirao also commissioned British landscape architect William Goldring to create its expansive surrounding gardens. His landscaping added another layer of beauty to the magnificent royal estate, enhancing the palace’s imposing architecture with lush greenery and carefully planned gardens.

What can one see at the Durbar Hall of Lukshmi Vilas Palace?

 The Durbar Hall was built to reflect the vision of the Gaekwad family, who aspired to develop Baroda into a significant hub for art, culture, and the pursuit of knowledge. This hall was not merely a symbol of regal grandeur; it also conveyed a powerful political message, showcasing India’s strength, prosperity, and cultural identity during the British Raj era. Speaking about the Durbar Hall—renowned as the most magnificent chamber of the Laxmi Vilas Palace—Radhikaraje Gaekwad says, “This was the space where the King would meet his courtiers and invitees. Its design highlights the cultural collaborations and exchanges that flourished between India and other global cultures approximately 135 years ago.”