NEVER ATE WITH WIFE

Gisborne Times, Volume LXI, Issue 9854, 6 November 1924, Page 3

NEVER ATE WITH WIFE

TRAVANCORE’S AIAHAR AJ A H

BATH AFTER GREETING

FOREIGNERS

Tito Maharajah of Travancoye oied at Aladrns recently, aged 66. Tho Alaharajah. H.H. Sir Bala Rama Verm a, G.C.1.E., G.C.5.1., was born in 1857, and lias reigned overplus State in Southern India since 1885. Travancore is prosperous, and the Alaharajah was verv wealthy. Although a man of enlightened views, he would not have meals with his wife, in consequence of the custom of the land, because she was of low birth. After slinking hands with a foreigner he would always take a bath before eating. Two British knighthoods were conferred upon Sir Bala Rama A’.arma, the first bv Queen Victoria and the second bv King Edward. Both King Edward and King George were entertained by his Highness during their visit? to India, tho country being noted for its big game, including tigers. . The Alahara.jah's own son cannot take his father’s title, ar.d his successor is a neohew, the son of his eldest sister, whom he adopted in accordance- with the local custom of inheritance through females.