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| Wankaner palace Gujarat revv.co.in |
Ranjit Vilas Palace, located atop the Gadhio Hills in Wankaner, Gujarat, is a historically and architecturally significant structure that served as the principal residence of the royal family of Wankaner until 2012. Overlooking the Machchhu River and the town of Wankaner, the palace estate spans 225 acres and encompasses the erstwhile British Residency, bungalows, a stable for Kathiawari horses, and a garage housing a collection of vintage cars and buggies.
History
The construction of the palace began in 1907, with the foundation stone laid by the Jamsaheb of Nawanagar, Ranjitsinhji, after whom the palace was named. Ranjitsinhji, a renowned cricketer and ruler, was a close friend of Maharana Amarsinhji Banesinhji of Wankaner, who is believed to have designed the palace himself. The palace served as the royal residence until 2012, even though it was severely damaged during the Gujarat earthquake of 2001. In 2018, the palace became a target of a significant burglary, where items valued at Rs. 3.4 million, including silver chairs, a marble gold-plated Victorian clock, and a silver replica of Wankaner House in Mumbai, were stolen.
Architecture
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| Wankaner or Ranjit Vilas Palace, GJ ytimg.com |
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| Wankaner or Ranjit Vilas Palace, GJ upload.wikimedia.org image: Dmp mech |
Ranjit Vilas Palace is a fascinating amalgamation of multiple architectural styles, reflecting the eclectic tastes of its designer, Maharana Amarsinhji. The three-storeyed palace boasts a unique combination of Venetian-Gothic, Italianate, Mughal, and Rajput architectural styles. Key features include:
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| Wankaner or Ranjit Vilas Palace, GJ egoldentriangle.com |
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| Interior, Wankaner or Ranjit Vilas Palace, GJ, |
- Venetian-Gothic Facade: The palace’s exterior is dominated by a Venetian-Gothic façade, making it distinctively different from other palaces in the region.
- Rajput-style Carved Jharokhas: The intricately carved jharokha balconies are reminiscent of traditional Rajput palaces, adding a regal touch.
- Gothic Arches and Doric Columns: These elements highlight the palace’s colonial influences and provide structural grandeur.
- Franco-Italian Windowpanes: The large, ornate windowpanes are a testament to the influence of European design.
- Onion Dome Clock Tower: The palace also features a clock tower topped with an onion dome, which was heavily damaged in the 2001 earthquake.
The palace grounds are decorated with an Italianate marble fountain in the front garden, adding to its opulence. The building was constructed using sandstone from the local quarries of Wankaner State.
Interior Decor and Furnishings
The interiors of the palace are lavishly adorned with imported European decor. The palace floors are lined with Italian marble, and the halls are furnished with Burma teakwood furniture. Chandeliers from Murano and Belgium hang from the ceilings, illuminating the grandeur of the rooms. Notably, the walls are adorned with a vast collection of hunting trophies, reputed to be the largest in India, showcasing the royal family’s interest in hunting.
Museum and Vintage Car Collection
Part of the palace has been converted into a museum that displays the rich history and heritage of Wankaner’s royal family. The palace’s garage, a treasure trove for automobile enthusiasts, houses a collection of vintage cars, further enhancing its allure as a cultural landmark.
Ranjit Vilas Palace stands today not only as a historical monument but also as a symbol of the opulent lifestyle and eclectic taste of the Wankaner royal family. Despite the damage it sustained during the earthquake and the burglary in 2018, it remains an architectural marvel and a significant part of Gujarat’s royal heritage.
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