Beyond the crown: The jaw-dropping fortunes and private treasures of India's 5 richest royal families

Once known as the "Golden Bird," India was home to numerous princely states ruled by powerful monarchs living lives of unparalleled grandeur. Following India's independence, the monarchy was abolished and these states integrated into the democratic nation.

Despite the end of official royal rule, several prominent dynasties continue to thrive. While the 26th Amendment to the Indian Constitution in 1971 stripped these families of their official titles and special privileges, their influence remained. Thanks to the immense wealth and legacies left by their ancestors, they continue to live in majestic palaces, maintaining a lifestyle of luxury and prestige.

Here are the wealthiest royal families in India who still hold massive fortunes today.

The Royal Family Of Jodhpur

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Under the leadership of Maharaja Gaj Singh II, the Jodhpur royals have become a hallmark of blending heritage with modern entrepreneurship. With an estimated net worth of Rs 22,000 crore, the family resides in the Umed Bhawan Palace—one of the largest private residences in the world. A significant portion of this palace now operates as a luxury hotel in partnership with the Taj Group, successfully transitioning the family's legacy into a thriving business empire.

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The Royal Family Of Jaipur

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The Kachwaha dynasty of Jaipur remains a symbol of Rajasthan’s cultural and royal splendor. After the passing of Brigadier Bhawani Singh in 2011, who served with distinction in the Indian Army, his grandson Padmanabh Singh was crowned Maharaja. As the current head of the family, Padmanabh Singh manages a fortune estimated at Rs 20,000 crore. According to media reports, their primary revenue streams include the City Palace and the Rambagh Palace.

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The Gaekwads Of Baroda

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Tracing their roots back to the 18th century when Pilaji Rao Gaekwad established control over Baroda, this dynasty remains historically significant. The family owns the Laxmi Vilas Palace, which is famously four times the size of Buckingham Palace. Currently led by Samarjitsinh Gaekwad, the family's wealth is valued at approximately Rs 20,000 crore, derived from extensive land holdings, temple trusts and a world-class art collection.

The Mewar Dynasty

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Perhaps the most storied lineage in India, the Mewar dynasty dates back to the 7th century and counts legendary figures like Maharana Pratap among its ancestors. Following the death of Shriji Arvind Singh Mewar in March 2025, his son, Shriji Lakshyaraj Singh Mewar, became the 77th custodian of the house. With assets worth roughly Rs 10,000 crore, the family owns the HRH Group of Hotels, including iconic properties like the Fateh Prakash Palace and the Lake Palace in Udaipur.

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The Wadiyar Dynasty

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The Wadiyars once ruled the Kingdom of Mysore and trace their lineage back to the Yaduvanish of Lord Krishna. The current head, Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar, oversees a net worth of nearly Rs 10,000 crore. A fascinating aspect of this family is the legendary 400-year-old "Curse of Talakad," which suggested the kings of Mysore would never have direct heirs—a phenomenon that has strangely persisted for centuries, leading to a long history of adoptions within the lineage.