Once hailed as the “face of Indian polo,” Shivraj Singh’s life took a dramatic turn after a near-fatal accident. Now, he continues to uphold his family’s legacy from the grand halls of Umaid Bhawan Palace.
A Royal Legacy
Born on September 30, 1975, Shivraj Singh is the only son of Gaj Singh II, the Maharaja of Jodhpur, and Hemlata Rajye. He belongs to the Rathore dynasty, which has ruled the Marwar region for centuries. Shivraj was educated at prestigious institutions, including Eton College and Oxford Brookes University, where he earned a degree in Business Administration. Before returning to India, he gained experience working with Schroder’s Bank in Geneva and London, and Jardine in Hong Kong.
The Umaid Bhawan Palace
Umaid Bhawan Palace, constructed between 1929 and 1943, is one of the largest private residences in the world. Built during a severe famine to provide employment to local farmers, the palace stands as a testament to the vision of Maharaja Umaid Singh. Designed by British architect Henry Vaughan Lanchester, it combines Indo-Saracenic, Art Deco, and Classical architectural styles. The palace features 347 rooms and spans 26 acres, including 15 acres of gardens. Today, it houses the royal residence, a museum, and a Taj-operated luxury hotel.
A Life-Altering Incident
In February 2005, Shivraj Singh suffered a severe head injury during a polo match at the Rambagh Polo Ground. He slipped into a coma and was later transferred to Mumbai for surgery. After months of rehabilitation, he regained his ability to speak and move, though he continues to face challenges from the accident.
Upholding the Family Legacy
Despite the setbacks, Shivraj Singh has remained committed to preserving and enhancing his family’s heritage. He manages the Umaid Bhawan Palace, overseeing its operations as a luxury hotel and its role in hosting significant events, including royal weddings. The palace has been the venue for high-profile events, such as the wedding of Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas.
