THE REGAL WOMEN OF MAYURBHANJ

The tribal heartland of Odisha, not too far from the West Bengal border, is a gargantuan seat of history, culture and natural resources. As we drive down making our way from the small villages of Bengal into the changing landscape of Odisha’s jungles, Mayurbhanj makes its presence felt with its small shops, laidback people and a small-town vibe that has an immediate placebo effect on our city-bred nerves. While much of the district has moved on into a post-democratic way of life, a large part of it still revolves around its glorious royal part, an intrinsic aspect of its geo-political and social fabric. When we stand face to face with the majestic 19th century Belgadia Palace built in the classical Western style of Doric-Corinthian columns – a mixture of Greek and Victorian architecture – recently converted into a heritage hotel by the family, it is a reminder of how the Maharajas of India have left behind unparalleled legacies contributing to India’s diverse architectural and cultural history.

Built at the order of Maharani Sumitra Devi Bhanj Deo in 1804, the palace served as a guest house for foreign dignitaries such as Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel, Lord Curzon, members of the Cooch Behar and Nepalese Royal