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July 30, 2026Short & citedBlog
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People File • Royalty

Gayatri Devi

Gayatri Devi (1919–2009) was an Indian royal, politician, and social figure who became the third Maharani of Jaipur through her marriage to Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II.

Updated July 30, 20261 min readCited sources

Gayatri Devi (1919–2009) was an Indian royal, politician, and social figure who became the third Maharani of Jaipur through marriage. She later gained prominence as a member of parliament and advocate for women's education.

What it is

Gayatri Devi was born Princess Gayatri Devi of Cooch Behar in London on 23 May 1919. She became the third Maharani of Jaipur in 1940 after marrying Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II. Following the end of princely rule, she was known as the Rajmata of Jaipur.

Key details

She won a record-setting Lok Sabha election in 1962 and served as a Member of Parliament. She was also known for her philanthropy and support for girls' schooling. She died in Jaipur on 29 July 2009 at age 90.

Why it matters

Gayatri Devi remains a celebrated figure in Indian history for her blend of royal status, political influence, and social advocacy. Her public image as a fashion icon and independent woman continues to inspire.

In short

  • Born Princess Gayatri Devi of Cooch Behar in London, 1919.
  • Became third Maharani of Jaipur in 1940.
  • Won a major parliamentary election in 1962.
  • Died in Jaipur in 2009 at age 90.

Quick questions

Who is Gayatri Devi?
She was an Indian royal and politician who became the third Maharani of Jaipur after marrying Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II.
What is Gayatri Devi known for?
She is known for her royal status, political career, and advocacy for women's education.
When did Gayatri Devi die?
She died on 29 July 2009 in Jaipur.

Sources

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gayatri_Devi
    Supports: Birth name, dates, marriage, Maharani of Jaipur, Rajmata title, and death age/date.
  2. The Independent — https://www.independent.co.uk/news/obituaries/gayatri-devi-indian-princess-who-combined-the-life-of-a-socialite-with-an-outspoken-commitment-to-political-action-1776806.html
    Supports: Obituary details, royal status, public role, and death date.
  3. The Guardian — https://www.theguardian.com/global/2009/aug/10/obituary-gayatri-devi
    Supports: Biography, political role, birth and death dates, and public reputation.
  4. The New York Times — https://www.nytimes.com/2009/07/31/world/asia/31devi.html
    Supports: Death, age, royal status, political career, and birth details.
  5. ThePrint — https://www.theprint.in/feature/gayatri-devi-princess-politician-and-indira-gandhi-critic-who-was-jailed-during-emergency/426887/
    Supports: Princess background, political career, education work, and election victory.
  6. BBC World Service — https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p033jt02
    Supports: Born into a princely family and later political prominence.