Dictionary of Indian Biography/Burdwan, Mahtab Chand Rai, Maharaja Adhiraj Bahadur of
BURDWAN, MAHTAB CHAND RAI, MAHARAJA ADHIRAJ BAHADUR OF (1820–1879)
Son of Maharaja Tej Chand Rai: born Nov. 17, 1820: succeeded to the Burdwan Raj (which pays over 40 lakhs annually of Government Revenue), on April 16, 1832: made Maharaja Adhiraj Bahadur, Aug. 30, 1833: on Jan. 1, 1877, was granted a salute of 13 guns as a personal distinction, and the title of "His Highness": appointed to the Governor-General's Legislative Council in 1864: during the Sonthal rebellion of 1855, and in the mutiny, he helped Government greatly with transport, and by maintaining communications: established a college, schools, hospitals and dispensaries on his estates; widely supported charities, and gave munificent contributions on occasions of epidemic fever, famines and calamities: encouraged literature and learning: though not always a strict observer of Hinduism, he maintained his numerous religious endowments and temples: while he did not seek popularity, he was highly respected by both Europeans and his countrymen, for his independence, high character and public spirit: died at Bhagalpur, Oct. 26, 1879.