How Jaipur’s ruler used gift diplomacy to portray his state as an equal to England
The extravagant presentation by Maharaja Sawai Ram Singh II of Jaipur to the visiting Prince of Wales in February 1876 showcased an artistic kingdom. Feb 20, 2021 · 11:30 am The Maharaja of Jaipur, Sawai Ram Singh II was a keen photographer and a collector of images. | Public Domain via Wikimedia Commons
Gifts have always been diplomatic devices – even in relationships. Be it ways to attract attention, arouse curiosity and secure favours, gifts are also tokens of devotion, appreciation of service and even an invitation to form alliances and a means of coercion.
Spread across a series of courtyards in the central-northeast part of Jaipur, the City Palace is the present-day home of Jaipur’s titular King, it is also the region’s most captivating royal structures