👑 Royal Heritage & Title

  • Belongs to the Jhala Rajput clan, rulers of the erstwhile princely state of Sayla in Gujarat

  • Adopted the title Maharana Thakore Saheb of Sayla, reflecting his royal lineage .

Career & Bell Guest House

  • After a corporate career, he opted for voluntary retirement (VRS) and began restoring the “Old Bell Guest House” in Sayla starting in 1998; the property was launched in 2001 as a heritage homestay

  • Transformed the guest house—originally used by British officers—retaining colonial charm and lush surroundings

  • His efforts include refurbishing historic rooms and converting spaces like the old billiards room into a dining area .

Heritage Host & Curator

  • Acts as the principal host and guide, curating local bird-watching trails and guiding guests through regional cultural experiences

  • His passion extends to preserving the property’s history and offering immersive stays that blend royal legacy with contemporary comforts.

Cuisine & Cultural Fusion

  • Introduced royal Odia-influenced cuisine at Bell Guest House, a legacy traced to his maternal roots in Odisha and Patiala through his mother, Princess Rajyashree Devi

  • By employing Odia cooks and retaining regal recipes—including Patiala’s cream-based Shahjahani Pulao—he showcases a unique culinary heritage

Education & Personal Background

  • Studied at prestigious institutions: Mayo College, Ajmer, and Sydenham College, Mumbai

  • Previously worked in Mumbai’s corporate sector before dedicating himself to heritage hospitality in Sayla.

Significance & Legacy

  • Somraj Singh Jhala sets an example in heritage tourism, embodying the transformation of princely estates into living museums and homestays.

  • He’s part of the Heritage Tourism Association of Gujarat, collaborating with fellow royals to promote regional history and culture

Why His Work Matters

  1. Cultural Preservation – Revitalizing a colonial-era structure with authentic heritage and cuisine.

  2. Tourism Impact – Enhancing Sayla’s visibility on travel routes to Gir, Junagadh, and other destinations

  3. Culinary Heritage – Bridging Odisha, Patiala, and Gujarat culinary traditions into a royal dining experience.

Visiting Bell Guest House

  • Located 136 km west of Ahmedabad in Surendranagar district, the property offers a serene stay with historic charm, lotus gardens, and even a giant chessboard

  • Ideal stopover for travellers en route to Kathiawar, with stays available by prior booking through Sayla Heritage’s contact details