HOMAGE TO THE KING

Otago Daily Times, Issue 22356, 1 September 1934, Page 16

HOMAGE TO THE KING

All the glamour of the East will be seen in London next May, when some of India’s most powerful native princes will cross the seas to celebrate the silver jubilee of King George’s accession. Fifty elephants, wearing jewels belonging to the chief maharajahs, will take part in a brilliant procession in the streets of the Metropolis. It is reported also that a court fakir, engaged by the Maharajah of Benares, will come to London to pronounce blessing on their Majesties. The famous diamond, the “ South of India Star,” second only in importance to the Kohinoor, will be worn in his turban by the Gaekwar of Baroda during the ceremonies, while the Maharajah Sindhia of Gwalior will wear his magnificent State rolics with ropes of pearls amounting to 30 yards in length. Emeralds and other jewels said to be worth £IOO,OOO will lie worn by the Maharajah of Patiala. The Maharajah of Alwar is expected to bring as presents for the King and Queen two State emeralds called “ Chandrakantamoni ” —meaning “ diamonds bright as the moon.”

For the first time the Nizam of Hyderabad is expected to wear in his turban the mysterious jewel which, according to tradition, can only be possessed by the richest man in the world. To others, according to the tradition, it brings a curse.

Thirty-five of the lesser potentates of India arc also expected to take part in the pageantry and rejoicings.