Manibhai Jashbhai

Manibhai Jashbhai Mehta (1844–1900) was a dewan (minister) of Kutch and Baroda State during British India. He was the first person in Gujarat to receive the title of Dewan Bahadur. He played a key-role in the establishment of Oriental Institute, Baroda. Manilal Jashbhai was born in 1844 at Nadiad to his father, Jashbhai Haribhai Mehta, a faujdar (police officer), and his mother, Gangaba. He was Vadanagara Nagar Brahmin by caste. He received his schooling at different schools in Mahudha, Nadiad and Petlad. He completed his English education in Nadiad and Ahmedabad. After matriculation, he, at the age of 18, was appointed an assistant teacher at the same school where he studied.