The Life and Legacy of Maharani Gayatri Devi: A Princess, Politician, and Icon
Princess, politician, and the last queen of Jaipur: Who was Gayatri Devi, the Maharani considered by Cecil Beaton to be one of the most beautiful women in the world?
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Image: Tatler - The Original Social Media
Maharani Gayatri Devi, born on May 23, 1919, was the last queen of Jaipur, renowned for her beauty and political influence. She married Maharaja Man Singh II and became a prominent politician after India's independence, representing the Swatantra Party. Gayatri Devi passed away on July 17, 2009, leaving behind a legacy as a style icon and a committed philanthropist.
- 01Gayatri Devi was born into a royal family in Cooch Behar, India, and was known for her lavish upbringing.
- 02She married Maharaja Man Singh II of Jaipur in 1940 and became a celebrated figure in Indian society.
- 03In 1962, she won a seat in the Lok Sabha, representing the Swatantra Party, and was re-elected in 1967 and 1971.
- 04After the death of her husband in 1970, she faced political challenges, including imprisonment during the Emergency in 1975.
- 05Gayatri Devi authored her memoir, 'A Princess Remembers,' and continued to be a public figure until her death in 2009.
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Maharani Gayatri Devi, born on May 23, 1919, in Cooch Behar, India, was the last queen of Jaipur and is celebrated for her extraordinary beauty and political career. Growing up in a royal family, she enjoyed a privileged childhood, which included hunting and a lavish lifestyle. She married Maharaja Man Singh II in 1940, becoming a prominent figure in Indian society and a skilled equestrian. Her beauty was recognized by photographer Cecil Beaton, who listed her among the world's most beautiful women.
After India's independence in 1947, Gayatri Devi transitioned into politics, winning a seat in the Lok Sabha in 1962 as a member of the Swatantra Party. She was re-elected in 1967 and 1971, standing against the Indian National Congress led by Indira Gandhi. Following her husband's tragic death in 1970, she faced significant political challenges, including imprisonment during the Emergency declared in 1975. Despite these hardships, she remained a respected figure, later authoring her memoir, A Princess Remembers. Gayatri Devi passed away on July 17, 2009, leaving behind a legacy as a beloved princess, a dedicated politician, and a style icon.
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Gayatri Devi's political career and advocacy for her constituents have left a lasting influence on the political landscape in Jaipur and India.
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