Laxmi Vilas Palace in Gujarat, owned by the esteemed Gaekwad family of Baroda, holds the title of the largest private residence in the world. Remarkably, this opulent palace is four times the size of Buckingham Palace. The Gaekwad family, who were once rulers of Baroda, remain highly respected by the local population. The family is currently led by HRH Samarjitsinh Gaekwad, married to Radhikaraje Gaekwad.
Radhikaraje Gaekwad, born on July 19, 1978, hails from the Wankaner state of Gujarat. Her father, Dr. MK Ranjitsinh Jhala, renounced his royal title to pursue a career as an IAS officer. Radhikaraje holds a Master’s degree in Indian History from Lady Shri Ram College, Delhi University, and worked as a journalist before her marriage to Maharaja Samarjitsinh Gaekwad in 2002.
According to Housing.com, Laxmi Vilas Palace spans an impressive 3,04,92,000 square feet, significantly larger than Buckingham Palace’s 8,28,821 square feet. In comparison, Mukesh Ambani’s Antilia, the world’s most expensive residence valued at Rs 15,000 crore, covers 48,780 square feet. Constructed by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III in 1890 at a cost of approximately GBP 180,000, the palace boasts over 170 rooms and features a golf course.
Maharaja Samarjitsinh Gaekwad assumed the Baroda crown in a traditional ceremony held at Laxmi Vilas Palace in 2012. The palace, with its grandeur and historical significance, continues to be a symbol of the rich heritage and cultural legacy of the Gaekwad family.
