HH Maharaja Sir Jiwajirao Scindia Museum

The Jai Vilas Palace was constructed in 1874 by Maharaja Jayajirao Scindia (1843-86) of the Maratha Scindia Dynasty, the then-Maharaja of the Princely State of Gwalior. It is an inspired amalgam of three architectural styles - a Tuscan first storey, an Italian Doric second storey, and a third storey that draws inspiration from Corinthian design. Unlike other palaces in India, the Jai Vilas has minimal Indo-Saracenic features, nor does it incorporate many local motifs or regional iconography. It is, rather, an European masterpiece living in the heart of India, inspiring awe amongst visitors from across the world. On 12th December, 1964, Rajmata Vijaya Raje Scindia converted the West and South wings of the Palace into a museum, in memory of her beloved husband HH Maharaja Sir Jiwaji Rao Scindia, the last Maharaja of the Princely State of Gwalior. Over the years, portions of the West wing of the Palace have also been added to the Museum. They enable glimpses of art, culture and Maratha history, and of the lifestyle of the Scindia Dynasty of Gwalior. The collection is quintessentially cross-cultural, showcasing congruence and diversity in artistic expression across milieus. With 42 galleries at present, the Museum displays diverse collections, dating from the 18th to the 20th Centuries including textile, vintage cars, Palanquins, photographs, paintings, furniture, royal kitchens, arms and armour, crystal collection, hunting trophies and many others.