Rise and Glory History of Halari Visa Oshwals

Author(s): Rati Dodhia
Publisher: Rati Dodhia

Page 88

Chapter 13. The Rulers of Navanagar State
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From 1900-1902 famine struck the country. He opened the shelters and distributed food free to the needy people. Water was provided from Lakhota Lake. After the famine was over, in 1903 Jam Ranmalji went on pilgrimage to Dwarka. When he returned he built wells and rest houses at different places. He was a visionary person always ready to do good for his subjects. His youngest son Vibhaji became crown prince as his other sons passed away.
18. Jam Vibhaji the Second (V.S. 1908-1951): During his reign he made many changes. In 1911 he built a huge fort near Rozi Harbor and restored the temple of Rozi Mata. In 1916 he suppressed the rebellion of Vaghers of Okha Mandal. In 1920 he established the Justice Department. In 1922 he abolished the royal tax imposed on districts. In 1935 the plant to supply water to the city of Jamnagar was completed and the foundation for Irving Hospital and food market were laid. In the same year a municipality system was established. He performed the opening ceremonies of Vibhaji School and Navanagar High School.
Cement and tarmac roads were built between Jamnagar, Dhrol, Jodiya, Khambhalia and Salaya. Lighthouses were built at Bedi Bandar, Salaya and Gingadh. Guesthouses were built at Navanagar, Rozi, Bedi and Balachadi for vacationers. Towers were built at Rajkot, Mandvi and Pancheshwar. Victoria Bridge, as well as many temples, was also built.
Crown Prince Kaluba was deposed and put under surveillance (house arrest) by the British Government, as he and his friends were harassing women.
Jam Vibhaji passed away in 1951 on his birthday.
19. Jam Jasvantji (V.S. 1959-1963): At the time of the death of Jam Vibhaji. Jam Jasvantaji was only four years old. He was crowned when he was 12 years old,