Khengarji III of Kutch

Khengarji III became Maharao of Kutch at age nine after the death of his father Pragmulji II. A regency council governed until he came of age in 1884. His reign of 66 years was the longest in Kutch's history.

Khengarji III completed the construction of the Prag Mahal Palace in Bhuj, started by his father. The Italian Gothic-style palace became a symbol of Kutch's prosperity and his patronage of architecture.

Khengarji III oversaw the modernization of Bhuj, including the construction of roads, hospitals, schools, and a railway line. He also established a water supply system and improved sanitation, transforming the city into a modern urban center.

Khengarji III contributed troops and funds to the British war effort during World War I. He provided a hospital ship and financial donations, earning a knighthood and the title of Knight Grand Commander of the Order of the Indian Empire.

Khengarji III established the Kutch Museum in Bhuj, one of the oldest museums in Gujarat. The museum housed artifacts related to Kutch's history, culture, and natural history, promoting education and heritage preservation.

Khengarji III died in 1942 after a 66-year reign, the longest in Kutch's history. He was succeeded by his son Vijayaraji. His reign saw Kutch's transformation into a modern princely state with significant infrastructure and cultural development.