Raj Ratna facts for kids

The Raj Ratna (pronounced Rahj Rat-na) was a very special award given in India a long time ago. Its name means "Gem of the Kingdom." It was like a big medal of honor for important people. This award was given in parts of India called princely states when the British ruled the country.

A Special Award in Old India

The Raj Ratna award was given by the kings and rulers of the princely states in India. These states were like small kingdoms. The rulers gave this award to people who had done great things for their kingdom. When someone received the Raj Ratna, they also got a special gold coin.

There was also another important award called the Raj Bhushan. This name means "Ornament of the Kingdom." It was the second-highest award, and people who received it got a silver coin.

These special awards, the Raj Ratna and Raj Bhushan, stopped being given around 1949. This was when most of the princely states joined together to form the country of India we know today.

Today, India has different top awards. The highest award for civilians is the Bharat Ratna. Other important awards include the Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri.

People Who Received the Raj Ratna

Many important people received the Raj Ratna award for their work. Here are a few examples:

• Nanji Kalidas Mehta, who was also a M.B.E.. He received his award from the Porbandar State.
• Dinshaw Ratanji Daboo, who was a member of the Baroda Legislative Council. He received his award from Baroda State in 1936.
• Jagannath Bhandari, a lawyer and important official (called a Dewan) of Idar. He received his award from Idar State in 1933.

See also

• Navaratnas