After Independence, it was transformed into a government building. In the 2001 earthquake, the palace was damaged to a great extent. Now, it is going to be renovated and converted into a first of its kind museum showcasing the socio-cultural heritage of the Saurashtra region.

The erstwhile royal family has accepted responsibility of the project, right from funding to execution. It has become possible only after the state government, on February 4, handed over the place to the Rajmata and Rajkumari on a 20-year lease at a token rate of Re 1 per year.

The royal family has set aside funds amounting to a whopping Rs 20 crore for renovating the building.

“Unlike Kutch, the culture, art and social heritage of Saurashtra have not received due recognition. This museum will act as a platform to promote cultural and social heritage of Gujarat with special focus on Saurashtra,” said Princess Mirabapa.

The highlight of the museum post-renovation will be tableaux by over 700 erstwhile princely states that made up Kathiawar before Independence.

The cultural diversity in attire, food, dances, arts and the like will find place in them.

Mani Mandir is a structure adorned with exquisitely carved arches, brackets, jalis, chhatris and shikhara. At the centre of the temple complex, overlooking the river Machhu is the temple of Radha Krishna. A rectangular double-storied complex with over 130 rooms surrounds the temple. Waghji had completed the structure at a cost of Rs 30 lakh in 1922 and died the same year.