#The Jai Vilas Palace, also known as the Jai Vilas Mahal in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh is a symbol of age-old Indian culture and opulence, preserved in the backdrop of modern-day India. The Maharaja of Gwalior, Jayaji Rao Scindia, had this magnificent edifice built to ensure a grand welcome for King Edward VII, the then Prince of Wales. Today, it serves both as a residence for the descendants of the royal Maratha Scindia family, as well as a museum stretched over 35 rooms of the palace. Together with the Chitrangada Raje Art Gallery that showcases the artistic nerve of Gwalior, and a library that comprises of more than five thousand books, the Jai Vilas Mahal is a must-visit for history lovers who wish to engage with the rich narrative of Indian civilisation.
Each room in the regal palace contains curios of historical importance, including a collection of swords that date back to the times of Shah Jahan and Aurangzeb, and the original Dhal (shield) that belonged to freedom fighter Rani Laxmibai. The venture cost a total of INR 1 crore, which must have been quite an extravagant affair in that era. Covering a floor area of about 75 acres, the Jai Vilas Palace has an intricately designed Durbar Hall, which houses some of the world's most colossal chandeliers, gilt furnishings, and a large plush carpet. The centre operates with the vision of creating an international cultural centre for the study of Maratha dynasty. !!!!!!!!!!!!!!