History is filled with rulers who leave behind grand legacies—some through conquests, others through governance, and a select few through a blend of intelligence, power, and cultural patronage. Among them, Maharaja Bhupinder Singh of Patiala stands out as a unique figure whose influence extended far beyond the borders of his princely state. A man of immense charisma, wealth, and vision, he was not just a ruler but also a patron of education, a military strategist, a global diplomat, a sports enthusiast, and a connoisseur of luxury.
During my 10-day research visit to Banaras Hindu University, I explored historical documents, personal accounts, and archives detailing his rule. What emerged was a picture of a king who was larger than life—not only in his grandeur but also in his impact on society. From funding educational institutions and promoting linguistic preservation to actively participating in global politics, Bhupinder Singh was a ruler who embraced modernity while remaining deeply rooted in tradition.His era was one of transformation, as India stood on the brink of independence, and the world was shaped by wars and political realignments. Unlike many princely rulers content with ceremonial roles, Bhupinder Singh engaged directly with international figures like Adolf Hitler and Benito Mussolini, strengthened India’s military presence in World War I, and left an indelible mark on the cultural and sporting landscape of the country. His contributions to cricket, his unparalleled collection of rare artifacts, and even his role in shaping the legend of the “Patiala Peg” make him a fascinating character in history.
Beyond his wealth and power, Bhupinder Singh was a leader who understood the importance of education and intellectual growth. His generosity toward institutions like Banaras Hindu University and his efforts to promote the Punjabi language demonstrate a forward-thinking approach that extended beyond mere governance.
This article delves into the extraordinary life of Maharaja Bhupinder Singh, shedding light on his achievements, ambitions, and contradictions. His legacy offers valuable lessons for modern society—about leadership, vision, and the fine balance between tradition and progress.History is a vast ocean filled with figures who left behind legacies of power, wisdom, and transformation. Among them stands Maharaja Bhupinder Singh of Patiala, a ruler whose impact extended far beyond his princely state. From his contributions to education, military advancements, and cultural preservation to his interactions with world leaders like Hitler and Mussolini, Bhupinder Singh remains a fascinating historical figure.
During my 10-day research visit to Banaras Hindu University, I explored various archives, personal accounts, and historical documents detailing his rule. What emerged was a picture of a king who was not only a patron of arts and sports but also a strategic leader who played a significant role in global politics. His story is one of ambition, foresight, and unparalleled grandeur—offering invaluable lessons for modern society.
A King Who Understood the Power of Knowledge
Maharaja Bhupinder Singh was born on October 12, 1891. Losing both parents at a young age, he ascended to the throne at just 10 years old. Despite his royal privileges, he recognized the importance of education and knowledge as tools for empowerment.
He was Instrumental in funding and supporting educational institutions, including Banaras Hindu University, which he generously donated to when leaders like Madan Mohan Malaviya approached him for support. He firmly believed that education was the foundation of national progress, and under his rule, many schools and libraries were established.
His support for linguistic and cultural preservation was equally remarkable. He played a key role in promoting the Punjabi language, even persuading Remington Typewriter Company to design a Gurmukhi typewriter named after him. His influence ensured that Punjabi remained a vital part of administration and court proceedings in his kingdom.
The Maharaja’s Role In World War I and Global Politics
Bhupinder Singh’s political acumen extended beyond India. During World War I, he played a crucial role in supporting the British Army, both financially and through recruitment efforts. He personally oversaw the enlistment of 521 soldiers in a single day, donated ₹1.5 crore (a massive sum at the time), and provided military resources, including horses, motor cars, and camels.
His loyalty to the British earned him recognition on an international scale, but it also positioned him uniquely in global diplomacy. He met with world leaders like Benito Mussolini and Adolf Hitler, receiving gifts such as a white Maybach car and Lugers (pistols) from Hitler himself. His presence in European politics showcased his strategic thinking and diplomatic reach.
A Patron of Art, Culture, and Luxury
Maharaja Bhupinder Singh was not just a warrior and politician—he was also a connoisseur of fine arts, sports, and luxury. His passion for collecting rare items was legendary. He owned 27 Rolls-Royce cars, which were maintained by a personal British engineer. His jewelry, designed by Cartier, was some of the finest in the world, and his custom-made Rolex watches added to his grandeur.
His fascination with cricket led him to become the first Indian to captain a cricket team to England in 1911. He also built the world’s highest-altitude cricket ground and established one of India’s finest hockey teams. His love for sports and his commitment to excellence in every field he touched set him apart from other rulers of his time.
His lifestyle was equally extravagant. He bathed in a silver bathtub, traveled with 200 suitcases, and received 3,000 roses daily at his hotel during his London visits. His palace had 11 kitchens preparing up to 150 different dishes for his meals, with grand feasts held for hundreds of guests on special occasions.
The Legacy of the “Patiala Peg”
One of the most famous cultural contributions attributed to Maharaja Bhupinder Singh is the “Patiala Peg,” a term that originated during his reign. It referred to a large measure of whiskey—four inches in a glass—meant to be consumed neat. The term, still used today, reflects the larger-than-life personality of the Maharaja and his ability to turn even a drinking tradition into a historical legacy.
The Maharaja Who Aided Britain in War and Received a Car as a Gift from Hitler
A famous story from the 1930s tells of the renowned Urdu poet Josh Malihabadi, who was struggling with financial difficulties. He carried a letter from the prominent lawyer Tej Bahadur Sapru to the Foreign Minister of Patiala’s Maharaja Bhupinder Singh, K. M. Panikkar.
In the letter, Tej Bahadur Sapru requested Panikkar to persuade the Maharaja to grant Josh Malihabadi a regular pension.
Panikkar took Josh to meet the Maharaja and recommended that he be given a monthly pension of 75 rupees. Panikkar writes in his autobiography:
“The Maharaja turned towards me and, in surprise, said, ‘You are from South India, so you cannot truly understand this poet’s greatness. When we are all forgotten, people will remember him like Kalidasa. A man of such stature deserves more than just a small pension. I have decided to grant Josh a lifetime pension of 250 rupees.’”
Had Maharaja Bhupinder Singh been merely a generous king who indulged in lavish spending, biographers might not have found him as fascinating.
His biographer, Natwar Singh, in his book The Magnificent Maharaja: The Life and Times of Maharaja Bhupinder Singh of Patiala, describes him as:
“A Maharaja, a patriot, a philanthropist, a sportsman, a soldier, a lover of music, a strict father, a shrewd politician with a passion for cricket.”
Early Life and Accession to the Throne
Maharaja Bhupinder Singh was born on October 12, 1891. As a child, he was affectionately called “Tikka Sahib.” He was only nine years old when his father, Maharaja Rajinder Singh, passed away. Before that, his mother, Jasmeet Kaur, had also died.
At just 10 years old, Bhupinder Singh ascended to the throne of Patiala. His coronation was postponed for nearly a year due to the death of Queen Victoria.
Until he came of age, the administration of Patiala was run by a council of ministers. In 1903, the royal court of British King Edward V was held in Delhi. At the time, Bhupinder Singh was 12 years old. He traveled to Delhi with his uncle on a special train to attend the event and delivered a speech.
In 1904, he was sent to Aitchison College in Lahore for his education. A team of attendants accompanied him, taking care of even the smallest details, such as tying his shoelaces.
Upon reaching adulthood, he was given full control of the state. His coronation was attended by Viceroy Lord Minto. During this period, he led a luxurious life, spending most of his time playing polo, tennis, and cricket.
Support for Britain in World War I
Maharaja Bhupinder Singh played an active role in supporting Britain during World War I. Along with Major Willcocks, he launched a recruitment drive and enlisted 521 soldiers in a single day.
Biographers Dr. Daljeet Singh and Gurpreet Singh Harika, in their book Maharaja Bhupinder Singh: The Great Ruler of Patiala State, write:
“Maharaja Bhupinder Singh donated 1.5 crore rupees to the British government for the war effort, which was a huge sum at the time.”
Additionally, Patiala State spent another 60 lakh rupees on war expenses. The Maharaja provided the British Army with 247 mules, 405 horses, 13 motor cars, and two camels for the 8th Patiala Camel Corps.
He also converted his residences, “Rockwood” and “Oakhurst” in Shimla, into hospitals for war casualties.
Meeting with Hitler and Mussolini
Bhupinder Singh was a tall and powerful man. During India’s struggle for independence, his loyalties remained with the British. However, in Punjab, especially among Sikhs, he was regarded as their leader due to the absence of any other strong figure.
He took great pride In his royal style, particularly in the way he tied his turban. He was a staunch advocate of the Punjabi language and made significant efforts to establish it as the court language.
Khushwant Singh, in his biography Captain Amarinder Singh: The People’s Maharaja, notes:
“Bhupinder Singh was such an ardent supporter of the Punjabi language that, at his request, the Remington Typewriter Company created a Gurmukhi typewriter, named after him.”
He was the first Indian to own a personal aircraft, which he imported from Britain in the early 20th century. He even built a runway in Patiala for it.
During his lifetime, he had the opportunity to meet two of the world’s most infamous dictators, Benito Mussolini and Adolf Hitler. Hitler gifted him a dozen Lugers (pistols) and a white Maybach car.
Collector of Rare Items
Whenever Bhupinder Singh visited London, he received extensive media coverage. The Daily Mail, in its August 3, 1925 edition, wrote:
“The Maharaja owns the highest-altitude cricket ground in the world. He bathes in a silver bathtub, and his hotel sends him 3,000 roses daily. He has brought 200 suitcases with him.”
Among the 560 princely rulers of India, only 108 were entitled to gun salutes. The Nizams of Hyderabad, Baroda, Kashmir, Mysore, and Gwalior received 21-gun salutes, while Bhupinder Singh was honored with a 17-gun salute wherever he went.
He had a passion for collecting books, cars, carpets, clothes, dogs, jewelry, manuscripts, medals, paintings, watches, and fine wines. His jewelry was custom-made by Cartier, his watches were specially ordered from Rolex, his suits were tailored on Savile Row, and his shoes were from Lobbs.
John Lord, in his book Maharajas, writes:
“He owned a total of 27 Rolls-Royce cars, maintained by a British engineer sent by the company.”
Maharaja Bhupinder Singh was renowned for his generosity, donating large sums to universities and charitable organizations.
Diwan Jarmani Das, his minister, wrote in his book Maharaja:
“When leaders like Madan Mohan Malaviya approached him for donations to Banaras Hindu University, he would hand them a check for 50,000 rupees.”
The term "Patiala Peg" also originated during his time.
Natwar Singh writes:
“It meant drinking four inches of whiskey in a glass without mixing water or any other liquid. The Maharaja preferred liquor over whiskey and had an extensive collection, possibly the best in India.”
Lavish Feasts and Opulence
Bhupinder Singh’s palace had 11 kitchens, preparing meals for hundreds daily.
Jarmani Das notes:
“Queens were served in gold plates and bowls with 100 different dishes. Other royal women were served in silver plates with 50 dishes, while other women used brass plates. The Maharaja’s meals consisted of no fewer than 150 dishes.”
On special occasions such as birthdays of the Maharaja, queens, and princes, grand feasts were held for up to 300 people.
After dinner, musical performances were arranged, featuring dancers from different parts of India. These parties often continued until morning.
Passion for Cricket
Maharaja Bhupinder Singh had an unparalleled passion for cricket. Few people know that Ranjitsinhji’s father once served as an ADC (aide-de-camp) to the Maharaja’s father.
In 1911, at the age of 20, Bhupinder Singh captained the first Indian cricket team to England.
Conclusion: A Legacy Beyond Time
Maharaja Bhupinder Singh of Patiala was not just a ruler of a princely state; he was a multifaceted leader whose vision extended beyond his time. His contributions to education, military service, cultural preservation, and sports continue to shape history. While his extravagant lifestyle and opulent tastes often make headlines, his real legacy lies in his commitment to progress, knowledge, and diplomacy.
His patronage of institutions like Banaras Hindu University, his strategic role in World War I, and his global diplomatic engagements demonstrate his forward-thinking leadership. He understood the power of education and culture in nation-building, ensuring that Punjabi heritage and linguistic identity thrived under his rule.
Despite his luxurious indulgences, he remained a statesman who uplifted his people, supported scholars and artists, and strengthened India’s presence on the world stage. His ability to command respect from world leaders, from British officials to European dictators, speaks volumes about his political acumen.
In today’s world, where leadership is often equated with political maneuvering, Maharaja Bhupinder Singh’s life serves as a reminder that true leaders are visionaries who blend power with wisdom, luxury with responsibility, and influence with generosity. His story is not just one of grandeur but of inspiration—one that urges us to lead with intelligence, innovation, and a lasting commitment to future generations.
A Lesson for Modern Society
Maharaja Bhupinder Singh’s life was a blend of intelligence, power, cultural patronage, and diplomacy. While some may view his extravagant lifestyle as excessive, his contributions to education, military advancements, and cultural preservation cannot be ignored.
Through my research at Banaras Hindu University, I have come to see him as a ruler who balanced luxury with responsibility. His life teaches us that true leadership is not about mere governance but about vision, innovation, and leaving a lasting impact on future generations.
In an era where leadership is often measured by political maneuvering, Maharaja Bhupinder Singh’s example reminds us that a true leader is one who uplifts his people, strengthens his nation, and leaves behind a legacy of wisdom, knowledge, and progress. His story serves as an inspiration for those who aspire to shape history rather than just be a part of it.