Not kings, but custodians of legacy: Royals of state

JAIPUR: Royals families are serving as custodians of Rajasthan's rich legacy, art and culture. The erstwhile rulers believe in the custodianship rather than kingship, where the ownership rests with the king. This view emerged during a talk show with erstwhile Royals during the inaugural day of the two-day programme 'Jaipur by Night' at City Palace on Friday.
The panelist were erstwhile rulers of Udaipur Arvind Singh Mewar, Jodhpur royal Gaj Singh and Karauli's royal Rohini Kumar moderated by cine star Kabir Bedi. The event was organized by CII Rajasthanss. The panelists shared the importance of preserving both tangible and intangible legacy by living it. Arvind Singh said they celebrate all occasions from fairs, festivals and weddings to carry on the legacy so that it is not forgotten. "We live in a real world today. I don't know if royal is the right word but nobody can take away our legacy," said Singh, who is serving the longest dynasty in the world starting from 734 AD.
When asked how he finds the role of royalty in the modern world, Gaj Singh replied saying he looks at himself as an ambassador of Jodhpur and conveyer between past, present and future. Royals are bridges between tradition and modernity, he added. On the question about if he supports government initiatives and vice versa, Gaj Singh admitted that for long Royals didn't receive the recognition which they deserved. "Regardless, we went ahead and did our duty to our heritage. Our legacy is a common pride of people and no state," said Gaj Singh.
Sharing his vision for Udaipur, Arvind Singh said he is not satisfied to see Udaipur as only a tourist destination. "Udaipur needs to be a placed where future is discussed and debated. I am glad to share that Chandrayan was coined in a conference held in Udaipur. I am trying very hard to develop a multidimensional image of Udaipur," said Singh. The talk show was followed by a power packed Sufi dance performance on wheel chairs on song 'Khawaja Mere Khawaja' by Ability Unlimited Dance Group. Also, Bollywood singer Shibani Kashyap mesmerized the audience with her magical voice.