Gaekwad

Glossaries

Term	Definition
Gaekwad	The Gaekwad dynasty, part of the Maratha confederacy, ruled the princely state of Baroda from the 18th century until India’s independence in 1947. The Gaekwad (also spelled Gaikwad) are a Maratha family who rose to prominence as rulers of the princely state of Baroda (present-day Vadodara, Gujarat). Their rise began in the early 18th century when Pilaji Rao Gaekwad captured Baroda in 1721 on behalf of the Peshwas. Over time, the family gained increasing autonomy while formally recognising Peshwa authority. Under Damaji Rao Gaekwad (mid‑18th century), the dynasty consolidated power and expanded its territories across Gujarat. They established an efficient administration, promoted agriculture and trade, and maintained a capable army to defend their interests against regional rivals and the British. In 1802, after tensions with the British East India Company, a treaty placed Baroda under British protection while retaining internal autonomy. The Gaekwad thus remained on the throne until 1947. One of their most notable rulers, Sayajirao Gaekwad III (r. 1875‑1939), was a modernising reformer who promoted education, infrastructure, public health, and heritage conservation. The dynasty’s legacy is still visible in Vadodara’s landmarks, such as the Lakshmi Vilas Palace. India • \|1674/1761\| • Maratha dynasty India • \|1721/1951\| • Gaekwad dynasty Synonyms: Gaikwad

Term

Definition

The Gaekwad dynasty, part of the Maratha confederacy, ruled the princely state of Baroda from the 18th century until India’s independence in 1947.

The Gaekwad (also spelled Gaikwad) are a Maratha family who rose to prominence as rulers of the princely state of Baroda (present-day Vadodara, Gujarat). Their rise began in the early 18th century when Pilaji Rao Gaekwad captured Baroda in 1721 on behalf of the Peshwas. Over time, the family gained increasing autonomy while formally recognising Peshwa authority.

Under Damaji Rao Gaekwad (mid‑18th century), the dynasty consolidated power and expanded its territories across Gujarat. They established an efficient administration, promoted agriculture and trade, and maintained a capable army to defend their interests against regional rivals and the British.

In 1802, after tensions with the British East India Company, a treaty placed Baroda under British protection while retaining internal autonomy. The Gaekwad thus remained on the throne until 1947.

One of their most notable rulers, Sayajirao Gaekwad III (r. 1875‑1939), was a modernising reformer who promoted education, infrastructure, public health, and heritage conservation. The dynasty’s legacy is still visible in Vadodara’s landmarks, such as the Lakshmi Vilas Palace.

India • |1674/1761| • Maratha dynasty

India • |1721/1951| • Gaekwad dynasty

Synonyms: Gaikwad