CULTURAL CATALYST

In an exclusive conversation with Bazaar India, Princess Gauravi Kumari lets us into her real world, talks about PDKF's empowering legacy, and shares her vision for Jaipur.

- RASNA BHASIN

Ruffled Top and Pants, prices upon request, all Iris Apfel X H&M. Logo-lettering draped gown, Bally; Sautoir Necklace in platinum, roun old single-cut diamonds, and bangle in platinum and diamonds, both Cartier Collection

I vividly recall the first time I spoke with Gauravi Kumari over a year ago, stumbling upon the Princess Diya Kumari Foundation (PDKF) brand on Instagram. Who would have thought we'd both end up here, with her gracing the cover of the magazine I now edit? 

My first impression of Gauravi wasn't that of a princess, but of a girl who was way more evolved than just the title she was born into. "I come from a household of enigmatic women from Maharani Gayatri Devi to my grandmother Rajmata Padmini Devi of Jaipur to my mother Princess Diya Kumari, who currently serves as the deputy chief minister of Rajasthan,' Gauravi reflects.

Raised amidst tradition, yet influenced by the currents of change, Gauravi epitomises a new generation of royals, seamlessly blending heritage with contemporary values. For instance, she and her brother HH Maharaja Sawai Padmanabh Singh, fondly called Pacho, approach the traditional ceremonies with a renewed perspective as choices rather than obligations. "We willingly embrace our cultural heritage and traditions," she emphasises, underscoring their commitment to preserving and promoting their rich legacy.