Former Indian cricketer Ajay Jadeja has been named as the next Jamsaheb of Nawanagar, a historical princely state now known as Jamnagar, located in the Halar region of Gujarat. The announcement was confirmed by the Maharaja Jamsaheb of Nawanagar in an official statement.

Ajay Jadeja, a prominent figure in Indian cricket during the 1990s, hails from the royal family of Jamnagar, which has a significant legacy in both cricket and governance. His ancestors include cricket legends KS Ranjitsinhji and KS Duleepsinhji, after whom the prestigious Ranji Trophy and Duleep Trophy are named. These two figures played pivotal roles in shaping the cricketing history of India and were renowned for their skill and contributions to the game.

Jadeja’s elevation to the royal position comes in the wake of his family’s long-standing contributions to the region and the sport. His father, Daulatsinhji Jadeja, was a three-time Member of Parliament from the Jamnagar Lok Sabha constituency. The Jadeja family has deep roots in both public service and sports, making Ajay Jadeja’s appointment as the next Jamsaheb a continuation of this rich heritage.

In a significant diplomatic moment earlier this year, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to the legacy of the Jam Saheb of Nawanagar during his visit to Warsaw, Poland, in August. The Jam Saheb Memorial in Warsaw commemorates the late Maharaja Jam Saheb Digvijaysinhji Ranjitsinhji, who is fondly remembered for his humanitarian efforts during World War II. Known as the ‘Good Maharaja,’ he provided refuge to over 1,000 Polish children fleeing the war, earning global recognition for his compassion and leadership.

Ajay Jadeja’s personal life also highlights his connections to both Gujarat and Kerala. His mother hails from Alappuzha in Kerala, and he is married to Aditi Jaitly, daughter of social activist Jaya Jaitly. The couple has two children, Aiman and Ameera.