Raj Ratna / Raj Ratan / Rajya Ratna (literally Gem of the Raj), was a highest title of honor or civilian award, which was prevalent in Princely India during British Raj.
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History
Raj Ratna awards were given by rulers of mostly Hindu Princely States of India to distinguished citizens of their kingdom. The title was bestowed upon with a Gold coin medallion.
Another, title or civilian award, second in order, was Raj Bhushan (literally Ornament of the Raj) was also prevalent, which was given with a Silver coin medallion.
The title and awards of Raj Ratna & Raj Bhushan came to an end mostly by the end of year 1949 with the amalgamation of almost all Princely States into India and formation of the Republic of India
However, the legacy, spirit and essence of these awards are being carried forward in independent India, by similar other prestigious awards like Bharat Ratna, Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri awarded by Government of India.