Memories

This city, known for its rich culture, is a beautiful blend of materialism and spirituality. It harmonizes the essence of nature with the rhythm of urban life. From akhadas that promote physical well-being to musical gatherings that soothe the soul, it offers a perfect balance. The city breathes faith, believing in the protection of ‘Ma Khodiyar and Ma Ruvapari.’ The early mornings here are graced with the aroma and delight of ganthiya wafting through every street. This city is not just a place but a part of my very identity. Discipline, spirituality, a love for nature, and music flow through my veins, nurtured by the legacy of this land. Being born here is my greatest fortune, and I bow in reverence to this city that shaped me.

Untouched by the city's chaos, Victoria Park is truly a priceless jewel for this town. I have cherished this park since childhood, growing up to the symphony of birdsong at dusk. This connection instilled a lifelong love for birds. The serene and picturesque surroundings here feel like nature’s temple, offering a sanctuary for both prayer and peace. My passion for photography also took root in this very place.

There’s a unique allure in observing the wildlife here—especially during the monsoons when the forest blooms in its full glory. From blackbucks, nilgai, jackals, and foxes to a variety of birds, this park has been home to countless species I have admired since childhood. Yet, it is disheartening to see this lush haven transforming into a joggers' park. Despite tireless efforts by the forest department to preserve it, human interference continues to disturb the habitat of animals and birds. Nilgai, once the pride of this park, are now forced to wander into residential areas in search of food.

I often visited Takhteshwar Temple to soak in the tranquility of evenings and the serenity of twilight. On early winter mornings, sitting by the temple’s steps amidst thick fog, I cherished the sight of the city wrapped in a misty blanket. A glance further revealed the coastline, embracing the city in its vast expanse.

Those were simpler times, but now, with the hustle and bustle of life, it’s rare to revisit these cherished memories. In my childhood, the temple was visible from almost any street in the city. However, towering structures have now obscured this architectural marvel, as though burying its timeless beauty.

The temple’s intricate carvings and natural surroundings are truly extraordinary. Even today, during evening aarti, the resonating chimes of its bells, carried by the wind, echo in my ears, keeping its essence alive in my heart.

My home was nestled close to two of Bhavnagar’s most iconic landmarks. Even today, these structures fill my heart with awe, and walking through the lanes of my old neighborhood brings back vivid memories of the past. These landmarks are Alfred High School and Majiraj High School, the latter being the place where Gandhiji once studied for a day.

The activities and education offered by these renowned institutions left a lasting impression on me. The dome of Alfred High School is a masterpiece, and its architecture and exquisite wooden craftsmanship remain unmatched. It was enough to make anyone wish to study there.

I vividly recall how the railing around the school compound had a few broken sections. Many of us would sneak through to take a shortcut to the market. Passing through the school’s vast grounds, I often paused to marvel at its grandeur. Those moments remain etched in my memory as a beautiful chapter of my life.

My childhood holds only a few, but very vivid, memories of the late Maharaja Shri Krishnakumarsinhji of Bhavnagar. He had a deep love for animals and birds. We would visit to see the pet dogs he brought from abroad, and he would joyfully share stories about them. He even employed a dedicated trainer for pigeons. Over 150 trained pigeons were gifted to my brother, who shared the same passion for them.

To my father, Maharaja Saheb was a divine figure. He revered him deeply and held him in the highest regard. The Maharaja had immense trust and affection for my father. Twice during those days, he arranged for my father to travel the world—a rare privilege for our family, which made us feel truly fortunate.

After the Maharaja’s passing, my father made it a ritual to visit his memorial as a tribute to the remarkable man who left an indelible mark on our lives.

I was about seven years old when Maharaja Saheb passed away, yet I can still feel the grief that engulfed the people of Bhavnagar. The scene from that day remains etched in my mind. His mortal remains were carried in a palanquin, and we were taken to pay our respects. The city was overwhelmed by a sea of mourners. Nature itself seemed to mourn in silence, while the people were immersed in profound sorrow. The entire city of Bhavnagar observed a spontaneous closure in mourning.

To the people, their Maharaja was nothing short of a divine presence. Losing him felt like losing a part of their own soul. Until the palanquin disappeared from view, everyone stood in prayerful reverence, hands folded. The roads appeared like a white carpet, lined with a silent yet massive crowd. The atmosphere was somber, heavy with emotion.

Even today, the people of Bhavnagar revere this extraordinary individual. He was a ruler who transcended social divides, embodying simplicity and humility. His humanitarian deeds earned him a special place in the hearts of his people. Such a remarkable personality commands unending respect and admiration. A thousand salutations to this noble Maharaja Saheb!

One incident that exemplifies the people's love for their Maharaja stands out vividly in my memory. We had organized a project on the theme "The Priceless Legacy of Bhavnagar's Royal Family."  In our school. The topics covered included environment, health, and education. The entire project was displayed on different trucks and taken across the city in a rally. The public responded with great enthusiasm, and by the evening, the rally concluded successfully.

As the staff dispersed, I stayed behind in the office to finish some work. Suddenly, a man dressed in tattered clothes, likely from a village, approached me. He said, “I loved the rally about Maharaja Saheb. I have some small photos of him that I’ve come to give you.” From his torn pocket, he carefully took out a small plastic bag containing three different photographs and handed them to me.

Curious, I asked how he had come into contact with Maharaja Saheb. He replied, “We were called from Ghogha to row boats here at Bor Talav, and Maharaja Saheb gave us shelter here. We now live near the port. Maharaja Saheb would personally visit to inquire about our well-being and even spoke to our children.”

I was moved by his story and felt I should help him in some way, so I gave him ₹200. To my surprise, he immediately reached into his torn pocket, pulled out whatever small change he had, combined it with the money I had given, and returned it to me, saying, “Are you offering me money for Maharaja Saheb’s photos? How can one place a value on them?” He continued, “Please use this extra amount for the girls who worked so hard on the rally.”

This simple, uneducated man taught me a profound lesson that day. His eyes reflected immense love and devotion, mirroring the enduring bond between the people and their beloved ruler. Maharaja Saheb’s compassion and deep connection with his people made him a part of their lives, sharing in their joys and sorrows.

Even today, the people’s respect and affection for the royal family remain steadfast—a testament to the legacy of a truly benevolent and empathetic ruler.

Now, let me talk about my alma mater, Shri Nandkunverba Kshatriya Kanya Vidyalay. In 1951, His Highness Maharajasaheb Shri Krishnakumarsinghji re-established this institution in the name of his mother. He personally admitted his three daughters to this school for their education, saying, “If I send my daughters to study outside, how will the public trust this institution?” Under his guidance, the institution flourished remarkably. At that time, education was centered around practical learning. The school hosted exceptional programs, and Maharajasaheb would personally attend every event. Prayers, songs, and plays were composed within the school, and the songs were set to music. The plays were performed on stage. I, too, am a student of this institution, and so are all my sisters. These activities left a lasting impression on my mind from childhood. Through my father and elder sister, I inherited the tradition of visual songs and plays. I too entered the field of education and have made efforts to continue this legacy. To be honest, my entire life is intertwined with this institution. These experiences are deeply etched in my heart, and the golden memories of my education and career are preserved here. The education provided by the royal family to this city is truly a priceless treasure. Thousands of footsteps have walked through its halls, and their signatures are preserved here. This institution, therefore, holds a sacred place in my heart. I offer my heartfelt salutations to it.