Padmanabh Singh: Modernising Jaipur's Royal Legacy Through Polo, Hospitality, and Cultural Preservation

In the heart of Rajasthan’s Pink City, where history whispers through palace corridors, a young prince states what it means to be royal in the 21st century. Padmanabh Singh, often popularly known as Pacho, carries forward the legacy of the House of Jaipur while carving his path in business, sports, and philanthropy.

Born on July 2, 1998, in New Delhi, he has integrated tradition with modern business acumen. As the current head of Jaipur’s former royal family, he carries the responsibility of maintaining the city’s historical significance while ensuring its relevance in the modern world.

His commitment to Jaipur extends beyond ceremonial duties because he is a forward-thinking entrepreneur dedicated to making Rajasthan a global tourism and cultural hub. From listing a section of the City Palace on Airbnb to captaining India's polo team, Padmanabh Singh is a rare blend of history and innovation. 

Padmanabh Singh - Biography

Padmanabh Singh - Early Life and Education
Padmanabh Singh - Royal Responsibilities and Ascension
Padmanabh Singh - Royal Business Empire
Polo - A Passion Turned into Profession
Padmanabh Singh - Philanthropy - Giving Back to the Community
Padmanabh Singh - Promoting Education and Youth Empowerment
Padmanabh Singh - Cultural Preservation and Modernisation
Padmanabh Singh - Fashion and Global Presence
Padmanabh Singh - Future Plans and Vision for Jaipur

Padmanabh Singh - Early Life and Education

Padmanabh Singh is the son of Princess Diya Kumari and Narendra Singh. His grandfather, the late Maharaja Bhawani Singh, was the last officially recognised Maharaja of Jaipur. The Jaipur royal family made a conscious decision to provide Padmanabh with a world-class education:

The British School, New Delhi (2004-2014)

• One of India's most prestigious international schools
• Exposure to diverse cultures and a global curriculum
• Developed early leadership skills as head boy

Millfield School, England (2014-2016)

• An elite boarding school is known for academic and sports excellence
• Played polo at competitive levels
• Learned to balance royal expectations with independent living

New York University (2016-2020)

• Studied liberal arts with a focus on economics and art history
• Lived independently in Manhattan
• Built an international network beyond royal circles

This educational journey reflects the family's strategy: preserve Rajput values while equipping their heir with global perspectives.

Padmanabh Singh - Royal Responsibilities and Ascension

Although India abolished royal titles in 1971, the cultural and symbolic importance of erstwhile royal families remains intact. Following the passing of his grandfather, Maharaja Sawai Bhawani Singh, in 2011, Padmanabh was informally crowned as the Maharaja of Jaipur at the tender age of 13. While this title does not hold legal power, it carries immense historical and cultural weight.

As the custodian of a 300-year-old legacy, Padmanabh Singh shoulders the responsibility of preserving Jaipur's royal traditions. He represents the city in various capacities, ensuring that the legacy of his ancestors continues to thrive in a modern setting.

The Royal Legacy and Family Business

As a modern royal, Padmanabh Singh has leveraged his family's heritage to create innovative business ventures. One of his most significant initiatives was listing a suite in the City Palace of Jaipur on Airbnb in 2019. This move made him the platform’s first royal host, offering global travelers a chance to experience regal Rajasthani hospitality.

The Jaipur royal family’s wealth is anchored in heritage properties, hospitality, and business ventures. Their most iconic asset is the Rambagh Palace, a luxury hotel managed by the Taj Group. Other properties include the Jaipur Palace and the Royal Apartments in New Delhi.

Beyond hospitality, the family has diversified into real estate and retail. They own prime land across Rajasthan and have ventured into heritage conservation projects. Padmanabh’s role is crucial in ensuring that these businesses remain profitable while preserving their historical essence.

Padmanabh Singh - Royal Business Empire

The House of Jaipur's wealth stems from three primary sources:

Heritage Hospitality - Palaces as Luxury Brands

The family's crown jewels are their palace hotels, managed in partnership with Taj Hotels:

Padmanabh Singh has introduced modern touches:

• Digital concierge services
• Curated heritage experiences
• Sustainable luxury initiatives

Real Estate and Land Holdings

The family owns approximately 2,000 acres across Rajasthan, including:

• Agricultural Lands: Organic farming initiatives
• Commercial Properties: Office spaces in Jaipur's business districts
• Heritage Sites: Restored havelis and forts

Future plans include mixed-use developments combining retail, hospitality and cultural spaces.

Diversification Strategies

Padmanabh is exploring new ventures:

• Luxury Brand Collaborations

1. Potential partnerships with watch/jewelry brands
2. Royal-inspired fashion lines
3. Lifestyle product endorsements

• Polo Business Ventures

• Sponsorship deals
• Luxury sporting events
• Equestrian tourism

• Tech and Startups

• Angel investments in Rajasthan-based startups
• Digital platforms for heritage tourism
• NFT projects around royal artifacts

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Polo - A Passion Turned into Profession

Padmanabh Singh is not just a royal figure but also a celebrated polo player. Polo has long been associated with Indian royalty, and he has successfully upheld this tradition. His competitive journey began in 2015 in England, where he played for the prestigious Guards Polo Club.

In 2017, he captained the Indian polo team at Hurlingham Park, London, marking India's return to this historic venue after more than 70 years. This milestone event was reminiscent of his grandfather’s legacy, as Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II had previously led the Indian polo team to great success on British soil. Padmanabh has also played alongside renowned international players and has been a key advocate for the sport's resurgence in India.

Padmanabh Singh - Philanthropy - Giving Back to the Community

Beyond business, Padmanabh Singh is deeply committed to social causes. One of the primary organisations he supports is the Princess Diya Kumari Foundation (PDKF), founded by his mother, Princess Diya Kumari. The foundation focuses on women’s empowerment, social entrepreneurship, and education in Rajasthan.

Through PDKF, underprivileged women receive training in traditional crafts, enabling them to become financially independent. Padmanabh actively promotes these initiatives, believing social development is as crucial as business growth. His involvement in philanthropy reflects his understanding that leadership goes beyond wealth by creating opportunities for others.

Padmanabh Singh - Promoting Education and Youth Empowerment

Padmanabh Singh is a strong advocate for education and youth empowerment. He frequently speaks about the importance of quality education in Rajasthan and how it can uplift the younger generation. His vision is to bridge the gap between traditional schooling and modern educational methodologies, ensuring that children in Jaipur receive opportunities to compete on a global stage.

By supporting scholarship programs and educational initiatives, he is investing in the future of Jaipur. His belief is simple—empowered youth lead to a progressive society.

Padmanabh Singh - Cultural Preservation and Modernisation

One of Padmanabh Singh’s significant contributions is his role in heritage conservation. He actively works towards the restoration and maintenance of Jaipur’s historical landmarks, ensuring that the city retains its architectural grandeur. His efforts include collaborations with heritage organisations and promoting cultural tourism to sustain these iconic structures.

He also ensures that Jaipur’s festivals, traditional events, and royal customs continue to be celebrated in a way that resonates with modern audiences. His presence on social media and participation in global cultural events have helped bring Rajasthan’s heritage to a broader audience.

Padmanabh Singh - Fashion and Global Presence

Beyond his business and philanthropic efforts, Padmanabh Singh has also made a mark in the fashion industry. He has walked the runway for internationally renowned brands like Dolce & Gabbana, showcasing royal elegance and modern fashion sensibilities. His participation in global events and fashion weeks has added a contemporary touch to his regal persona.

By embracing his traditional heritage and modern global trends, he has become a symbol of how royals can stay relevant in the 21st century. His ability to navigate between business, culture, and luxury fashion makes him a unique personality in India’s royal landscape.

Padmanabh Singh - Future Plans and Vision for Jaipur

Padmanabh Singh is deeply invested in the long-term growth of Jaipur, focusing on three key areas:

1. Business Expansion: He aims to expand Jaipur’s luxury hospitality sector by developing more high-end cultural experiences, such as boutique heritage hotels and curated royal experiences for elite travelers.
2. Philanthropy & Social Development: He plans to enhance educational opportunities for Rajasthan’s youth, support more local artisans, and work on sustainable development projects.
3. Cultural & Heritage Conservation: He is exploring new initiatives in digital heritage conservation and tech-driven tourism and is possibly investing in film production to highlight Rajasthan’s regal history.

His vision is to make Jaipur a world-renowned cultural and luxury tourism hub while preserving its historical essence.

FAQs

Who is Padmanabh Singh?

Padmanabh Singh is the current titular Maharaja of Jaipur, known for his efforts in modernizing the royal legacy.  

How is Padmanabh Singh modernizing Jaipur's legacy?

Through his involvement in polo, developing hospitality ventures, actively preserving the city's culture, and leveraging his education.

What is Padmanabh Singh educational background?

Padmanabh Singh received his education at Mayo College in Ajmer and later studied Liberal Arts at New York University (NYU).