Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visits Poland and honors the Maharaja of Nawanagar, known as the 'Good Maharaja' for providing shelter and care to over 1,000 Polish children during WWII. Modi emphasizes the importance of compassion and humanity in creating a just and peaceful world. The tale of the 'Good Maharaja' continues to impact the relationship between India and Poland, with various schools and associations named in his honor.
Indian Prime Minister Honors 'Good Maharaja' Who Sheltered Polish Children in WWII
Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India recently visited Poland, where he honored the late Maharaja of Nawanagar, Jam Saheb Digvijaysinhji Ranjitsinhji, known as the 'Good Maharaja' for his extraordinary act of compassion during World War II.
Background
In 1941, as Nazi Germany invaded Poland, thousands of Polish children found themselves stranded and orphaned. Faced with a humanitarian crisis, the Maharaja of Nawanagar offered shelter to over 1,000 of these children at his palace in India.
For four years, the Maharaja provided the children with food, clothing, shelter, and education. He established a school for them and appointed Polish teachers to preserve their language and culture. The children were treated with love and respect, and many developed lifelong bonds with their Indian hosts.
Modi's Visit
During his visit to Poland, Prime Minister Modi visited the orphanage in Nawanagar, where he met with surviving Polish children. He expressed India's unwavering friendship with Poland and highlighted the importance of compassion and humanity in creating a just and peaceful world.
Modi also visited the grave of the Maharaja in Warsaw and laid a wreath in his honor. He called the Maharaja a "shining example of compassion and humanity" and thanked the Polish people for preserving the memory of his kindness.
Legacy
The Maharaja's legacy continues to inspire today. Schools and associations in both India and Poland are named in his honor, and his story is taught as a reminder of the power of empathy and the importance of providing shelter to those in need.
Top 5 FAQs
Over 1,000
At the Maharaja's palace in Nawanagar, India
For four years, from 1941 to 1945
Food, clothing, shelter, education, and medical care
Because of his extraordinary compassion and kindness in providing shelter to thousands of orphaned Polish children during World War II
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