Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II
Handicap Rating
Biography
Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II of Jaipur is the defining figure of Indian polo's golden age — a 9-goal player of exceptional ability, a visionary patron, and the man who established the Jaipur Polo Club as one of the sport's most celebrated venues. Born in 1912 into the royal Kachwaha family of Rajasthan, Man Singh II received a comprehensive polo education from childhood, developing under the guidance of professional coaches at a time when the Indian princely states were the most lavish patrons of the sport anywhere in the world. His 9-goal handicap — a rating achieved by only a tiny number of players in history — confirmed his status as a genuine champion rather than a wealthy amateur who played for pleasure. He competed against the finest professionals of his era, both in India and internationally, and his performances earned universal respect. At the Rajasthan Polo Club in Jaipur, he built a venue and programme that attracted royalty, diplomats, and celebrities — including members of the British royal family — who came to experience polo at its most magnificent. Man Singh II's relationship with British royals, particularly through the sport of polo, gave Jaipur polo an international profile that extended far beyond India. The Jaipur polo team competed in England, and the Maharaja's presence in British polo circles — at Guards Polo Club and at the great country house matches of the era — created connections between Indian and British polo at the highest social level. His hospitality at Rambagh Palace made Jaipur one of the great polo destinations of the twentieth century. His legacy in Indian polo is immeasurable. The Rajasthan Polo Club he championed remains one of India's premier polo venues, and the tradition of royal polo patronage that he embodied — combining genuine playing ability with visionary investment in facilities, horses, and competitive structures — set a standard that Indian polo continues to aspire to.
Career Highlights
["9-goal handicap — ranked among the world's finest players", "Captain of the Indian polo national team", "Won major titles in England at Hurlingham and Roehampton", "Established Jaipur as the historic capital of Indian polo", "Died at a polo tournament in Spain in 1970 — emblematic of his devotion to the sport", "Subject of enduring polo legend across India and the world"]
Player Details
Country
India
Association
IPOA
Handicap
9 goal
Status
Historic Legend
Connect with polo players
Join PoloConnect to see member profiles, chukka history, and connect with players at this club.