Vishwanath Singh (maharaja) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids His Highness Raja Sir Shri Vishwanath Singh Bahadur KCSI,Maharaja of Chhatarpur |
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| Reign | 1867–1932 |
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| Born | Vishwanath Singh 29 August 1866 Chhatarpur State, Bundelkhand Agency, Central India Agency, British Raj (now Chhatarpur District, Madhya Pradesh, India) |
| Died | 4 April 1932 (aged 65) Chhatarpur State, Bundelkhand Agency, Central India Agency, British Raj |
Maharaja Vishwanath Singh Bahadur was a ruler of Chhatarpur State in India. He was born on August 29, 1866. He ruled from 1867 until his death on April 4, 1932. He was also honored as a Knight Commander of the Order of the Star of India (KCSI).
Early Life and Rule
Vishwanath Singh was the son of Raja Jagat Raj of Chhatarpur. He became the Raja on November 4, 1867. At that time, he was just over one year old.
He ruled under the guidance of British officials. This supervision continued until his 21st birthday. After that, he was given full power to rule his state.
Becoming Maharaja
The British authorities had some concerns about his leadership. However, Chhatarpur State had been loyal to the British government. This was especially true during the Indian Rebellion of 1857. Chhatarpur was also an important center for the British.
Because of this loyalty, the British decided to keep things as they were. On May 25, 1895, Vishwanath Singh was given the special title of Maharaja. This title became hereditary in June 1919. This meant his future heirs would also be called Maharaja.
In 1921, he received more powers. He gained the right to handle criminal cases within his state. He was also knighted in 1928. This made him a Knight Commander of the Order of the Star of India (KCSI).
Interests and Visitors
Maharaja Vishwanath Singh was known for his love of philosophy and friendship. He enjoyed meeting different people.
The famous author E. M. Forster visited Chhatarpur in 1912–13. He met the Maharaja during his visit. Later, based on Forster's suggestion, the author J. R. Ackerley became the Maharaja's private secretary. Ackerley worked for the Maharaja for about five months, from December 1923 to May 1924.
Ackerley later wrote a book about his time there. The book was called Hindoo Holiday. It described his experiences while working for the "Maharajah of Chhokrapur." The book was published after the Maharaja's death in 1932.
Later Years and Legacy
Maharaja Vishwanath Singh passed away on April 4, 1932. He was 65 years old. He had ruled Chhatarpur for a long time, from 1867 to 1932. His reign lasted for over 64 years.
