Porbandar State
The harbour town of Porbandar became the capital of a state ruled by the Jethwa dynasty. Earlier, Shrinagar served as the capital for these rulers. Then Ghumli took over that role until it was lost to the Jadejas. Architectural heritage built by the Jethwas still stands at Ghumli today. This coastal principality stood out among others in the Kathiawar region. It held the rank of First Class with a 13 Gun Salute. The state ranked fourth in position among all Principalities in the Kathiawar Agency.
On the 5th of December 1809, the state officially became a British protectorate. Between 1886 and the 15th of September 1900, the Bombay Presidency administered the territory directly. Later, the area became part of the Kathiawar Agency. This transition marked a shift from independent rule to colonial oversight. The coastline remained one of the few features distinguishing this state from inland territories. Administrative changes brought new layers of governance under British supervision.
In 1888, during the reign of Vikramatji Khimojiraj, the State started metre-gauge railway called Porbandar State Railway. After independence, this line merged into Saurashtra Railway. Maharaja Sir Natwarsinhji Bhavsinhji, KCSI (1908-1948) built Hizoor Palace near the shore at Marine Drive. The palace stands as an architectural legacy from the early 20th century. Under his successor, the state progressed further with these modern projects. These developments reflected efforts to improve connectivity and civic life within the region.
Uttamchand Gandhi served as Dewan to Rana of Porbandar state. His son Karamchand Gandhi also held that position later. Tulsidas Gandhi, the uncle of Mahatma Gandhi, followed in their footsteps as minister. All three men worked within the administration of the Porbandar state. This connection linked the family of India's independence leader directly to local governance. Their service spanned generations within the same princely court.
Upon Independence of India in 1947, the state acceded unto the dominion of India. It was merged with the United State of Kathiawar effective from the 15th of February 1948. Eventually, it came to form part of the present-day state of Gujarat. Maharaja Bhavsinhji Madhavsinhji ruled between 1900 and 1908 before handing over power. The final ruler, Maharaja Sir Natwarsinhji Bhavsinhji, governed until 1948. The transition marked the end of centuries-old Jethwa rule.
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Common questions
When did Porbandar State become a British protectorate?
Porbandar State officially became a British protectorate on the 5th of December 1809. The state later came under direct administration by the Bombay Presidency between 1886 and the 15th of September 1900.
Who was the last ruler of Porbandar State before it merged with India?
Maharaja Sir Natwarsinhji Bhavsinhji governed Porbandar State until 1948. He succeeded Maharaja Bhavsinhji Madhavsinhji who ruled from 1900 to 1908.
Which dynasty ruled Porbandar State for centuries?
The Jethwa dynasty ruled Porbandar State from its founding in 620 until 1948. Earlier capitals included Shrinagar and Ghumli before the capital moved to the harbour town of Porbandar.
What is the connection between Mahatma Gandhi and Porbandar State?
Uttamchand Gandhi served as Dewan to the Rana of Porbandar state and his son Karamchand Gandhi held that position later. Tulsidas Gandhi, the uncle of Mahatma Gandhi, also worked within the administration of the Porbandar state.
When did Porbandar State merge with the United State of Kathiawar?
Porbandar State merged with the United State of Kathiawar effective from the 15th of February 1948. The state eventually became part of the present-day state of Gujarat after independence in 1947.