Not Mukesh Ambani or Gautam Adani: Meet India's first private jet owner

When we talk about India's richest people and most influential people, Mukesh Ambani and Gautam Adani are often the first names that come to mind. These modern business tycoons are well-known for their wealth and luxury. However, long before they became famous, there was another Indian who maintained the standard for lavishness and creativity. This person was Maharaja Bhupinder Singh of Patiala, the first Indian to own a private jet. His story is a fascinating blend of royal luxury, forward-thinking, and a passion for life that still captures the imagination today. Let's look at Maharaja Bhupinder Singh's life and how he made history in ways that are still relevant today.

The Early Life of Maharaja Bhupinder Singh

Maharaja Bhupinder Singh was born on October 12, 1891, at the grand Moti Bagh Palace in Patiala. He ascended the throne of the princely state of Patiala in Punjab at the age of nine, following the death of his father, Maharaja Rajinder Singh I, on November 9, 1900.

His mother, Jasmer Kaur, played a significant role in his early life. During his rule, Patiala developed a strong network of canals, trains, and post offices by 1914. There were also 262 public schools, 40 state hospitals, a college, and about Rs 9 million in revenue, according to The Print.

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Education and Ascendancy

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Educated at Aitchison College, Maharaja Bhupinder Singh was well-prepared to rule his state. His reign from 1900 to 1938 was marked by significant advancements and a lavish lifestyle that drew admiration and envy alike.

The First Indian to Own a Private Jet

In 1910, Maharaja Bhupinder Singh made history by becoming the first Indian to own a private jet, according to DNA India and many other news websites. He purchased the aircraft from the UK and subsequently built an airstrip in Patiala, symbolizing his forward-thinking vision and affinity for modern technology.

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Passion for Cricket

Maharaja Bhupinder Singh was not only a ruler but also an avid cricketer. His team, Patiala XI, was one of the best in its era. He led the Indian cricket team to England in 1911 and played 27 first-class matches between 1915 and 1937. Although named captain for India's first Test tour of England in 1932, health issues prevented him from participating. To show his love and passion for cricket, he built the Chail Cricket Ground, which is the highest cricket ground in the world.

Establishing Financial Institutions

In addition to his contributions to sports, Maharaja Bhupinder Singh founded the State Bank of Patiala in 1917. This institution played a crucial role in the economic development of the region, reflecting his commitment to progress and modernization.

A Life of Extravagance

Known for his opulent lifestyle, Maharaja Bhupinder Singh's love for luxury was legendary. According to various reports he traveled in a cavalcade of 20 Rolls Royce cars, accompanied by 40 servants in pink turbans. His palace housed a special garage for his 40 Rolls-Royce cars and a stable for 500 polo ponies. Maharaja Bhupinder had a huge collection of top-quality items, including books, cars, carpets, clothes, dogs, horses, jewels, manuscripts, medals, paintings, watches, and wines. His grandson-in-law, Natwar Singh, wrote about this in his 1998 book, The Magnificent Maharaja. You will be surprised to know that he was the man behind introducing the Patiala peg.

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Personal Life and Legacy

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According to DNA India, married to ten wives and having numerous concubines, Maharaja Bhupinder Singh was the father of 88 children. He passed away on March 23, 1938, at the age of 48. His eldest son, Yuvraj Yadavindra Singh, succeeded him as the last Maharaja of Patiala until the formation of the Indian state in 1948.

Maharaja Bhupinder Singh of Patiala is a name etched in history for his pioneering spirit and luxurious lifestyle. His legacy as the first Indian to own a private jet remains a fascinating chapter in India's rich tapestry of royal heritage. While modern tycoons like Mukesh Ambani and Gautam Adani dominate today's headlines, the story of Maharaja Bhupinder Singh serves as a reminder of an era when royalty and innovation went hand in hand.