Former Indian cricketer Ajay Jadeja has been officially designated as the heir to the Jamnagar Royal Throne in Gujarat. This announcement was made by Maharaja Jamsaheb of Nawanagar during the auspicious festival of Dussehra. As a result of this new role, Jadeja stands to inherit an estimated fortune exceeding ₹1,450 crore, positioning him as the richest sports personality in India, surpassing cricket legend Virat Kohli, whose net worth is approximately ₹1,000 crore.
A Strong Connection to Cricket
This inheritance further strengthens the longstanding relationship between the Jamnagar royal family and the sport of cricket. Notably, the renowned Ranji Trophy and Duleep Trophy are named after Jadeja’s relatives, KS Ranjitsinhji and KS Duleepsinhji.
Jadeja’s Cricketing Background
Ajay Jadeja represented India in 196 One Day Internationals (ODIs) and 15 Test matches between 1992 and 2000. He is a direct descendant of the royal family, with his father, Daulatsinghji Jadeja, serving three terms as a Member of Parliament from Jamnagar.
Maharaja’s Delight
In his public statement, Maharaja Jamsaheb expressed his happiness about Jadeja’s acceptance of this responsibility. He remarked, “The festival of Dussehra marks the day the Pandavas emerged victorious from exile. Today, on Dussehra, I am equally happy, as I have found a resolution to one of my dilemmas thanks to Ajay Jadeja, who has accepted to be my heir.” He further added, “Ajay Jadeja taking up the responsibility of serving the people of Jamnagar is truly a boon,” highlighting the significance of this decision for the local community.
Legacy of Royalty and Cricket
The Maharaja, who has a background in cricket himself and captained Saurashtra in the Ranji Trophy, became the titular head of Nawanagar in 1966. His family’s lineage traces back to the iconic cricketer Ranjitsinh Jadeja, who ruled Nawanagar from 1907 to 1933.
With this announcement, Ajay Jadeja is poised to begin a new chapter in his life, transitioning from the cricket field to royal duties, continuing a legacy that merges sports and community service.