India's royals find new power in their past
Summary
India’s former royal families are leveraging their heritage to shape politics, tourism and cultural preservation. In Vadodara, Radhikaraje Gaekwad and other descendants of princely dynasties are promoting museums, social initiatives and traditional arts while seeking new relevance in modern India.
Key Points
- Former Indian royal families are finding new relevance through cultural work, politics and heritage projects.
- Radhikaraje Gaekwad of Baroda says royals have adapted by using their past to support social change and preserve art.
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government has embraced royal history as part of its nationalist narrative.
- Younger descendants such as Akshita Bhanj Deo are turning palaces into hotels and running foundations for marginalized groups.
