Prince Patron & Patriarch

The historical crossroads which saw India’s transition from British Imperial rule to Independence and a democracy, coincided with the fascinating life of Maharaja Jagatjit Singh, the last ruler of the erstwhile Princely State of Kapurthala (1872-1949). He was witness to some of the most epochal events, both within India and across the global stage during his distinguished reign, which spanned almost 60 years. Maharaja Jagatjit Singh was held in universal esteem and still commands respect as one of the best-known and most legendary of the ruling Indian princes of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Prince, Patron and Patriarch explores the many hues and dimensions of his life, character, and achievements, encapsulated as a renowned traveler, an erudite ruler, a Francophile, and a benevolent patriarch, devoted to his family and his constituents. This book recreates his abundant life and gracious world by surveying the aesthetics and geo-political events of Kapurthala State under his patronage. The monograph of this extraordinary life and dynamic personality is presented with components of a family album, historic journal, along with a design diary owing to the Maharaja’s renown as an aficionado of architecture. It also bears elements of a personal memoir, owed largely to the insights shared by Brigadier Sukhjit Singh, who vividly reminisces about his illustrious grandfather.