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Royal Rebel: Princess Defied Tradition, Won Election
3 Aug
Summary
- Born into royalty, she defied purdah and married for love.
- Founded a girls' school, becoming the 'People's Maharani'.
- Won election by world record margin, later jailed.
Princess Gayatri Devi was born into an illustrious royal family in London on May 23, 1919. She received a comprehensive education and broke societal norms by refusing purdah, marrying for love, and becoming the Maharani of Jaipur at 19. Believing in girls' education, she founded the Maharani Gayatri Devi Girls School, which grew into a leading institution.
Known as the 'People's Maharani,' she deeply connected with her constituents. Following the loss of her mother, brother, and husband, she bravely entered politics. In 1962, she won a parliamentary seat by a record-breaking margin, later documented in the Guinness Book of World Records.
During the 1975 Emergency, Gayatri Devi was arrested and imprisoned for five and a half months, accused of possessing undeclared wealth. Despite losing her titles and freedom, she maintained her dignity. After her release, she authored her autobiography, 'A Princess Remembers.' She passed away at 90, remembered for her bravery and individuality.
