by Devika Chandrakar
Think of the Maharaja and Maharani of Indore, Yashwant Rao Holkar II, and Sanyogitabai Holkar, as India’s version of celebrity-style icons, much like how people look up to Hollywood stars. Their lives resembled a glamorous movie, making them one of the most stylish and glamorous royal couples in history.
Yashwant Rao Holkar II and Sanyogita Bai Holkar of Indore were one of the most stylish and glamorous royal duos to have existed. The two studied together in England, while the Maharaja completed his education at various prestigious schools and colleges, including Cheam School, Charterhouse, and Christ Church, Oxford. Maharani was privately educated.
Yashwant Rao II and Sanyogita Bai Sahib got married in 1924. Their travels took them all over the world, not just Europe. They even ended up on the set of the Hollywood movie ‘The Plainsman’ with Gary Cooper and Cecil B. DeMille and with actress Gail Patrick on their US trip. Their fashion sense was top-notch. Even on their honeymoon in France, they were photographed by a famous artist, Man Ray. A French painter, Bernard Boutet de Monvel, created a beautiful double portrait of the couple.
Yashwant Rao Holkar II’s rich experiences included collecting exquisite art and marvelous cars. The Maharaja also had a keen interest in design, so much so that he commissioned architect Eckart Muthesius from Germany to design the Manik Bagh (Jewel Garden) palace in Indore.
Sanyogita Devi of Indore was a style icon herself, dressed by renowned designers for international events. If the term ‘power couple’ existed back then, they would undoubtedly fit the description. While British royalty made a global impact, the story of the Holkars’ incredible and fabulous lives is equally deserving of recognition.
If anyone is looking to make a biopic or period drama, then the story of the incredible and fabulous lives of the Holkars could be it. Rephrase the above information; do not change a lot of information.
