His Highness Maharana Sahib Manvendra Singhji Bahadur is the 58th Maharana of Barwani, a princely lineage that traces its roots to the historic Sisodia Rajputs of Mewar. Known for his distinguished heritage and remarkable contributions to automotive preservation and culture, Manvendra Singh has carved a unique identity that connects India’s royal past with modern expertise in vintage automobiles. indianrajputs.com
Historical Background: The Princely State of Barwani
Barwani was a princely state in British India located in present-day Madhya Pradesh, strategically situated in the Satpura Range south of the Narmada River. Originally known as Avasgarh, it was founded by Sisodia Rajputs who claimed descent from the legendary Bappa Rawal of Mewar. The capital was later moved to Barwani on the Narbada riverbank. Wikipedia
During the colonial era, Barwani was part of the Central India Agency (Bhopawar Agency) and was recognized as an 11-gun salute state due to its historical prestige. Although much of its territory was reduced following Maratha incursions in the 17th century, the Ranas of Barwani maintained autonomy without becoming tributaries to major powers. oroyalarchives.com
After Indian independence, Barwani acceded to the Republic of India in June 1948, and its territories were integrated into the Nimar District of the then Madhya Bharat state (later part of Madhya Pradesh). oroyalarchives.com
Life & Education of HH Maharana Sahib Manvendra Singhji Bahadur
Born on 21 August 1952, Manvendra Singhji is the 58th Maharana Sahib of Barwani, ascending the hereditary title on 15 September 2007. His official residence is at Barwani House, 12 Old Palasia, Indore, Madhya Pradesh. oroyalarchives.com
His education reflects both traditional and international influences:
- Daly College, Indore – completed H.S.C. (1970)
- Jim Russell’s International Racing Drivers School, Canada – Formula Ford racing (1971)
- Christian College, Indore – Bachelor of Arts (1973)
- Northwood University, USA – Degree in Auto Marketing (1976)
- McPherson College, USA – Special studies in Auto Restoration (1991) oroyalarchives.com
His global education played a defining role in shaping his lifelong engagement with automobiles—particularly vintage and classic cars. oroyalarchives.com
Pioneer of Vintage & Classic Car Restoration in India
Beyond royal heritage, Manvendra Singh is widely recognized in automotive circles as a pioneer in vintage and classic car restoration in India:
- Founded India’s first vintage and classic car restoration workshop, Classic Cars Indore, in 1978. oroyalarchives.com
- Restored over 100 vintage and classic automobiles, including prized brands like Rolls-Royce, Bentley, Bugatti, Hispano-Suiza, and Mercedes-Benz. oroyalarchives.com
- Featured on national and international television, including programs on Doordarshan, BBC, CNBC, Sahara, Star TV, and MTV. oroyalarchives.com
- Organized India’s first Custom Car Show at the Ashoka Hotel, New Delhi in 1979, sponsored by Asian Paints. oroyalarchives.com
- Built custom automobiles including Indian limousines based on Hindustan Motors Contessa Classic and Ambassador platforms, and designs for Mahindra Quadro Show Car for Auto Expo 2000. oroyalarchives.com
- Researched and written extensively for automotive magazines such as Autocar India and Auto India. oroyalarchives.com
His initiatives helped preserve India’s automobile heritage and elevated the status of vintage car culture nationally. He is also a life member of the Auburn/Cord/Duesenberg Club of America and a member of The Society of Automotive Historians. oroyalarchives.com
International Recognition & Influence
Manvendra Singh’s expertise has been recognized globally:
- He has judged international concours events, including prestigious shows such as Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance in the United States. Fortune India
- His work on restoration and automotive history has been featured in major publications and automotive forums internationally. Fortune India
His contributions bridge historic royal culture with cultural preservation through automobiles—a testament to how modern royals can reinterpret heritage in new domains.
Family & Personal Life
HH Manvendra Singhji married HH Maharani Renuka Devi, daughter of Raja Dinesh Singhji of Kalakankar, on 21 January 1979. The couple has continued the Barwani family’s traditions while adapting to contemporary life. oroyalarchives.com
Their children include Maharajkumari Vidita Kumari, known for her automobile-inspired art and automotive paintings, reflecting a creative blend of royal heritage and modern expression. The New Indian Express
Legacy of HH Manvendra Singhji Bahadur
HH Maharana Sahib Manvendra Singhji Bahadur stands out not just as the custodian of a centuries-old Rajput lineage, but also as a cultural ambassador who brought vintage car preservation and automotive history into public consciousness in India and beyond. His life and work embody a rare fusion of royal heritage, global education, artistic sensibility, and technical mastery—making him one of India’s most distinctive modern princes. indianrajputs.com
