Morbi Art Deco Palace

The Morbi Art Deco Palace, also known as the New Palace, is a 1930s royal residence in Morbi, Gujarat, on the banks of the Machchhu River. Commissioned by Maharao Shri Lakhdirji Waghji and built between 1931 and 1944, it is noted as one of India's prominent examples of Art Deco architecture with European influences. The palace remains part of the former Morbi State royal estate and is recognized for its geometric facades, streamlined interiors and historic royal associations.

Visitors can expect to view an Art Deco-style royal palace complex with streamlined geometric facades, curved balconies, stained glass, and European-influenced interiors and furnishings. The palace is set near the Machchhu River and Mani Mandir within the Darbargadh area. As it remains a private royal residence, visitors typically view the exterior architecture and surroundings from outside the gates, with interior access only by prior permission where available.

The palace was commissioned by Maharao Shri Lakhdirji Waghji, ruler of Morbi State, and constructed between 1931 and 1944. Designed in the Art Deco style popular in Europe at the time, it reflects the ruler's interest in contemporary European architecture and planning after his education and travels abroad. It served as the New Palace of the Morbi royal family, complementing the older Darbargadh Palace complex.

The palace is culturally significant as a rare and well-preserved example of Art Deco royal architecture in Gujarat and India, illustrating the fusion of Indian princely patronage with early 20th-century European design trends. It forms part of Morbi's heritage ensemble along with Mani Mandir and Darbargadh, representing the town's princely history and architectural legacy.