Ratanlal Haribhakti

At 41, Ratanlal Haribhakti became Nagarsheth and emerged as a trusted aide to the Gaekwads. He helped organize Maharaja Pratapsinghrao Gaekwad’s 1939 coronation earning the title Rajmitra and mediated during civic unrest, notably opposing police firing in 1942. He spoke out against burdensome taxes, backed Baroda’s merger with India, and balanced public life with deep spirituality, practicing yoga and leading daily prayers. Despite his influence, he remained humble and devoted to service.