queens beautifully handled all the affairs of the state be it administrations or Art, Rajmata Satvashiladevi along with Rajasaheb Shivramraje Bhonsle are responsible for reviving the dying art of Ganjifa and lacquerware of Sawantwadi. They established Sawantwadi Lacquerwares in 1971 and managed to take the art form to the international market. After the demise of Rajesaheb, Rajmata continued her efforts in reviving and promoting the Ganjifa art. She was a master craftswoman in her own way in lacquerware, hand weaving and hand embroidery and she had also won awards for it. She truly devoted herself and took keen interest in the growth and sustenance of this art form. Architectural Traits The Royal Palace of Sawantwadi is truly an architectural masterpiece that effortlessly merges the English arches with the native workmanship and the vibrant red laterite stones. The bricked brown walls add to the ethnicity of this two-storied Palace and makes it a unique, unmissable tourist attraction of Sawantwadi. The Palace has a beautiful façade square at the centre covered with an immaculate lawn and is surrounded with rooms on all four sides which is converted into a Museum. History states that the ministers and the officials of the court used to reside in these rooms during the rule. The Palace vicinity encompasses extensive gardens, trees and indeed the magnificent structure which sits pretty in the midst of this landscaped garden. Lester Gate The Palace entrance is through the Lester Gate which was built in 1895. Named after the British Political Superintendent Col. Lester who had contributed in major developments of the state . The inscription on the gate reads: Opened for carriages and general uses October 10, 1895 Rajebahadur Raghunath Sawant Bhonsle Sir Desai of Sawantwadi Colonel H. L. Nuff Political Superintendent Rao Saheb B. H. Kumthekar State Engineer The top of the gate is decorated with 2 finials at both ends and in between proudly stands the swallow-tailed deep saffron color flag honouring the Royal Maratha Family. Moti Talav The Strategic location of the Palace with the coconut grove facing the Moti Talav further strengthens the imposing posture of the Royal Residence. The man-made lake was built in 1874. Moti Talav, located in the heart of the city, gives a beautiful panoramic view of the Narendra Hill. A bridge cuts through the lake and there is a paved pathway running around the water body, a popular hangout spot among