- The wedding ceremony took place at the Nawab’s Palace.
- The Nawab owned around 100 dogs, each had their personal rooms and servants.
- Nawb was an advocate for the conservation of the Asiatic animals whose population was declining.
The wedding of Roshanara, a female dog, to Bobby, a golden retriever orchestrated by Muhammad Mahabat Khanji III, stands to be the most lavish and extravagant affair from the early 20th-century India. Muhammad was the last Nawab of Junagadh and was known for his exorbitant lifestyle and deep love towards animals. He was born in 1898 and ascended to the throne in 1911 following the death of his father. His reign was marked by opulence and a series of splendid events with the wedding he organized for his beloved dog gaining maximum attraction.
The Nawab spent an astronomical amount of 2 crores INR on the wedding. The day of nuptials was declared to be a state holiday as the entire city was filled with enthusiasm and excitement to witness a wedding setting a high benchmark. The day was a spectacle of magnificence as Roshanara was carried in a silver palki, embraced with beautiful jewels and fine fabrics. The groom made the entrance led by 25 dogs, each adorned with gold bracelets. The Nawab had royal guests from across India to bless the couple. Amongst the invitees was Viceroy of India, although he declined the invitation. The presence of other high-profile guests made the ceremony a memorable chapter in the history and continues to capture the imagination of the masses.
The wedding ceremony took place at the Nawab’s Palace, an alluring and breathtaking structure which stood as a symbol of his infinite wealth and supreme power. The palace grounds were beautified with enigmatic flowers and lights casting an atmosphere of grandiose and elegance. The lavish feast with dishes prepared by the best chefs delighted the guests. Music and dance performances were organized to keep the guests entertained making it an event that remains immortal and remembered for many years to come.
Muhammad Mahabat Khanji III’s love for animals extended beyond his dogs as he was an advocate for the conservation of the Asiatic animals whose population was declining due to hunting activities. The Gir forest which fell under Junagadh’s territory was a safe haven for many animals and the Nawab took the charge of establishing the sanctuary and taking actions necessary for their survival. Today, the Asiatic Lion population continues to thrive in the Gir forest.
The Nawab owned around 100 dogs, each had their personal rooms and servants. When Roshanara passed away, Nawab declared a state of mourning. After India gained independence, Junagadh was exposed to political turmoil. The Nawab wanted to join hands with Pakistan, however, due to intervention of the Indian army, the princely state merged with India. Thereafter, Muhammad fled to Pakistan taking his dogs along. He died in Karachi in 1959. Muhammad Mahabat Khani III’s legacy is a blend of luxury and heartfelt compassion for animals. He will forever remain one of the most celebrated chapters of Indian History.
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