Bhopal was distinctive among the Indian princely states for being governed by a succession of widows who ruled with the consent of their people and the British Government. Edward, Prince of Wales (later King Edward VIII) spent three days there during his visit to India in 1921. He was formally received by the Begum, Sultan Jahan (1858–1930), at the Sadar Manzil palace, where a state banquet was held. An account of the tour recorded that the Begum was 'a perfect hostess', wearing 'a belted robe of rich light blue brocade embroidered in purple, and a "burqa"’. 'Although her features are hidden from the world, she is, nevertheless, as active and as powerful as any Indian Prince'. This sabre and matching dagger were presented on that occasion. The hilt of the sabre is set on one side with seed pearls forming the words 'H.R.H. The Prince of Wales' and engraved on the other with the arms of Bhopal.