In a landmark decision reflecting changing societal norms, Maharaja Rajendra Singhji of Idar has officially appointed his daughter, Viveka Kumari Idar, as his successor to the Idar Gadi, making her the titular head and custodian of the Royal House of Idar.
In a statement, Maharaja Rajendra Singhji stated: "As today&rsquo;s progressive times make no differentiation between a male and a female heir, I hereby appoint my daughter Viveka Kumari Idar to succeed me to the Idar Gadi as a titular head and as the head of the house of Idar for all social and religious representation, as the custodian of the legacy of the Royal House of Idar, as the sole heir to my tangible and intangible assets, as well as temple trusts and other charitable trusts. I leave it to her discretion to nominate, after her, a suitable candidate to carry forward the legacy."
The Royal House of Idar, a 15-gun salute princely state with its seat in Himmatnagar, issued an official statement highlighting the significance of the appointment. The statement described the decision as &ldquo;historical, unique and landmark&rdquo; for the erstwhile royal family.
Viveka Kumari, the only child of Maharaja Rajendra Singhji and Maharani Prakash Kumari of Gondal, was born on April 18, 1980. She holds a degree in Economics and Sociology from St. Xavier&rsquo;s College, Mumbai, and an MSc in Finance from the University of Exeter, United Kingdom.&nbsp;
She also briefly studied portraiture at the JJ School of Art in Mumbai, reflecting her passion for the arts.
She descends from some of the most illustrious rulers of modern princely Gujarat, including Sir Pratap Singh, Maharaja of Idar and regent Maharaja of Jodhpur, whose valour in the First World War remains globally recognised; Maharaja Bhagwat Sinhji of Gondal, lauded for transforming Gondal into a tax-free, self-sufficient state; and Jamsaheb Ranjitsinhji, the legendary cricketer and Maharaja of Nawanagar, known internationally both for his sporting prowess and royal stature.
In response to the announcement, Maharaj Kumari Viveka Kumari of Idar issued a statement: &ldquo;Today I am deeply moved by the overwhelmingly positive response by people at large, to my father&rsquo;s brave and forward-thinking decision in appointing me, a daughter, to succeed him to carry forward the great legacy of my house. While I am extremely honoured by his decision, I do realise the responsibilities and sense of duty attached to it. It is my prayer to your readers, especially people of Idar and Himatnagar, to guide and support me as I take on a mantle that has rarely been worn before &mdash; of a daughter being given the opportunity to serve the values of a historic Royal House.&rdquo;
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Maharaja Rajendra Singhji appoints daughter Viveka Kumari as sole heir and custodian of Idar royal legacy.

Viveka Kumari Named Head of Royal House of Idar

Maharaja Rajendra Singhji appoints daughter Viveka Kumari as sole heir and custodian of Idar royal legacy.

June 5, 2025 | 21:45 IST

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