PM pays tribute to ‘Dobry Maharaja’ in Warsaw, meets Indian diaspora

New Delhi, Aug 21: Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid homage at The Dobry Maharaja Memorial in Warsaw, honouring the late Jamsaheb of Nawanagar, Digvijaysinhji Ranjitsinhji Jadeja, for his extraordinary act of compassion during World War II. The Jamsaheb, often referred to as the ‘Dobry (Good) Maharaja,’ is celebrated for providing refuge to over a thousand Polish children during the war, marking one of the most poignant chapters in the history of India-Poland relations.

In a tweet, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal showcased the enduring impact of this historical act of kindness, stating, “This moving tribute to the compassion of the Maharaja continues to have a lasting impact on India-Poland ties.” The significance of the Maharaja’s gesture has been meticulously preserved and honoured by both the Polish state and the survivors who spent their childhoods in India.

Diplomatic relations between India and Poland were formally established in 1954, with the Indian Embassy opening in Warsaw in 1957, and the Polish Embassy in New Delhi in the same year. The ties between the two nations were further strengthened during World War II, between 1942 and 1948, when over 6,000 Polish women and children sought refuge in India.

The Jamsaheb of Nawanagar, in particular, is remembered for his generosity in sheltering Polish children, while others found safety in a large camp in Kolhapur.

Earlier the Prime Minister Modi met with the Indian diaspora in Poland, where he was warmly received. The Prime Minister interacted with community members, listening to their stories, and acknowledging their resilience and achievements. The Prime Minister’s Office, in a tweet, highlighted the warm reception, stating, “A warm reception for PM @narendramodi in Poland! The Indian community in Warsaw extended an enthusiastic welcome to the Prime Minister.”

An estimated 25,000 Indians are living in Poland. The number of Indian students in Poland is on the rise. Around 5000 students are currently pursuing studies at various universities in Poland.