Diya Kumari

Last Updated: April 27, 2024

Diya Kumari, born on January 30, 1971, in Jaipur, Rajasthan, is a prominent Indian politician affiliated with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Currently serving as the 6th Deputy Chief Minister of Rajasthan alongside Prem Chand Bairwa, she represents the Vidhyadhar Nagar constituency in the 16th Rajasthan Legislative Assembly. Kumari is a member of the illustrious royal family of the Jaipur State, with a lineage tracing back to Man Singh II, the last ruling Maharaja of Jaipur during the British Raj.

Political Journey

Diya Kumari’s political career has been marked by significant milestones. She served as a Member of Parliament in the Lok Sabha from the Rajsamand parliamentary seat between 2019 and 2023. Her victory, securing 8.58 lakh votes with a margin of 5.51 lakh votes, was among the top 20 biggest margins in the 2019 elections. Kumari transitioned to state politics and is currently the BJP MLA from Vidhyadhar Nagar.

Her political engagement extends beyond elected positions. Diya Kumari was appointed as the Brand Ambassador for the “Save the Girl Child” initiative by the Government of Rajasthan, showcasing her commitment to social causes.

Early Life and Education

Born to Bhawani Singh, a decorated Indian Army officer and hotelier, and Padmini Devi, Kumari’s early life was shaped by her royal heritage. She received her education at prestigious institutions like Modern School in New Delhi, G.D. Somani Memorial School in Mumbai, and Maharani Gayatri Devi Girls’ Public School in Jaipur.

Kumari pursued her passion for fine arts, earning a Graduate Diploma in Fine Art (Decorative Painting) from Chelsea School of Arts, London, in 1989. Later, she earned an Honorary Doctorate in Philosophy from Amity University, Jaipur.

Entrepreneurial Ventures

Beyond politics, Diya Kumari is a successful entrepreneur and is considered a billionaire. She manages a diverse portfolio of properties, businesses, trusts, and schools. Her responsibilities include overseeing City Palace in Jaipur, Jaigarh Fort in Amber, and various trusts and schools. Notable among these are the Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Museum Trust, Jaipur, the Jaigarh Public Charitable Trust, and schools like The Palace School and Maharaja Sawai Bhawani Singh School.

Personal Life and Foundation

In her personal life, Diya Kumari has three children—two sons, Padmanabh Singh and Lakshraj Prakash Singh, and a daughter, Gauravi Kumari—from her marriage to Narendra Singh. The union, which stirred controversy as Narendra Singh was a commoner and a Chartered Accountant, ended in divorce in December 2018.

Determined to make a positive impact, Kumari established the Princess Diya Kumari Foundation. This foundation, run by her and her children, focuses on women empowerment through social entrepreneurship.

Diya Kumari’s multifaceted journey reflects a blend of royal heritage, political acumen, and entrepreneurial spirit, making her a noteworthy figure in contemporary Indian politics. Her role as the Deputy Chief Minister of Rajasthan underscores her continued commitment to public service and governance.