Hidden Gem: Maharaja Fatehsingh Museum in Vadodara
In the heart of Vadodara lies a hidden gem that holds a treasure trove of art and history – the Maharaja Fatehsingh Museum. Tucked away in a modest building within the Laxmi Vilas Palace compound, this museum boasts a private collection of paintings and sculptures that are more than a century old.
Built over 149 years ago, the museum was originally a school for the princes of the royal Gaekwad family. Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, who later ruled the Baroda state, was schooled here along with his sons and grandsons. The building, spread over 11,000 square feet, holds a rich history dating back to the 1870s.
Today, the Maharaja Fatehsingh Museum is the only place in the state that houses original paintings by renowned artists like Raja Ravi Varma, Felici, Raphael, Titian, and Rembrandt. The collection also includes sculptures in marble and bronze, as well as Chinese and Japanese porcelain artifacts.
Manda Hingurao, the curator of the museum, explains, “After Independence, many royal properties were given to the government, and the decision was made to convert this school building into a museum to showcase the valuable artworks collected by Sayajirao during his trips abroad.”
The museum has received recognition for its unique collection, winning the Best Museum prize from the state tourist department in 2019. Visitors can explore the rich history and exquisite art pieces that offer a glimpse into the royal heritage of Vadodara.
As the museum continues to preserve and showcase these priceless treasures, it remains a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts and history buffs alike.