Raja Virbhadra Singh
(Ibbetson House | Batch of 1951)
A man of quiet dignity, strong values, and enduring legacy, Raja Vir Bhadhar Singh of Bushahr represents a seamless blend of tradition, leadership, and modern sensibility. His life journey is deeply intertwined with the heritage of Bishop Cotton School, Shimla, where the foundations of character, discipline, and service were laid early on—values he upholds to this day. A towering statesman, a six-time Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, and a leader who devoted over five decades to public service, Raja Sahib’s legacy is not just political—it is deeply personal, grounded in values shaped by his early years at Bishop Cotton School, Shimla.
As House Captain of Ibbetson House, he balanced academics, sports and responsibility, traits that later defined his political career. The institution’s ethos of discipline and excellence stayed with him as he pursued higher studies at St. Stephen’s College, Delhi University, where his interest in governance and social justice blossomed.
In 1962, at just 28 he stepped into democracy, winning his first Lok Sabha Election from the Mahasu Parliamentary Constituency and subsequently became a cabinet minister in the Union Government.
His vision transformed Himachal into a hub of hydroelectric power, turning its rivers into engines of progress. Schools, hospitals and roads reached remote corners, bridging gaps between villages and cities.
Raja Virbhadra Singh belonged to the generation of Cottonians who were brought up on the school’s enduring principles of honour, integrity, and service. Those who knew him as a student often speak of his regal bearing, intellectual curiosity, and quiet strength—traits that would later define his political career and his deep connection to the people of Himachal Pradesh. His years at BCS played a pivotal role in shaping his worldview and instilling in him a profound sense of duty and discipline.
Today, that legacy continues with his son, Vikramaditya Singh, who was in Ibbetson house, also studied at BCS and carries forward both the family name and its values with grace and commitment. A young and dynamic leader, Vikramaditya has followed in his father’s footsteps in public life, currently serving as a Member of the Legislative Assembly in Himachal Pradesh. More than just an heir to a political legacy, he represents a modern vision rooted in traditional wisdom—a hallmark of Cottonians across generations.
For the Singh family, Bishop Cotton School is not merely an alma mater—it is a thread that binds generations, a place where values are not just taught but lived. The school’s motto, Overcome Evil with Good, is one that both father and son have carried into the real world, each in their own era, each in their own way.
As BCS continues to educate future leaders, the legacy of Raja Virbhadra Singh and Vikramaditya Singh stands as a shining example of the impact of a Cottonian education—not only in public life but in the quiet dignity of service to society.
Virbhadra Singh’s passing in 2021 left an indelible void, but his legacy thrives in the state’s lush valleys and bustling towns. From the halls of Bishop Cotton School to the corridors of power, his life reminds us that true leadership is forged in service, humility, and an unyielding love for one’s people.
“Leadership is not about power, but about lifting others.”
A tribute to the boy from Ibbetson House who became Himachal’s beloved Raja.
Raja Sahib may no longer walk among us, but his footsteps will echo in the valleys of Himachal forever.
As a Himachali and an Old Cottonian we miss him. A true legend.
Thank you for the tribute to Raja Saheb. He followed a legacy of responsible leadership throughout his life.
Raja Sahib was an amazing personality, totally committed to development of HP and its people.
I recollect that in 2002/2003 when tax incentives were announced for setting up of industries in the State, I was then a Director of Hindustan Unilever Ltd and along with our Vice Chairman visited Shimla to explore with the State Govt the possibility of setting up a few factories in the Baddi- Barotiwala area of HP.We had sought an appointment with the CM Raja Sahib. When we reached Shimla in the late evening after a flight from Mumbai to Chandigarh and a drive up from there we found a message from the CM awaiting our arrival at Cecil. In it the CM regretted that something urgent has come up and therefore he will be taking a chopper early the next morning for Delhi and so will regretfully not be able to meet us as per the appointment he had earlier agreed. However, he added that he will be happy to recieve us at his residence above the Ridge that night. Later that night over a hot and very welcome cup of home-made soup in his home he welcomed our investment and offered all necessary help from the Govt to ensure that all legitimate clearances would be expedited and any assistance thatvwe may need from the Govt would be provided.
We are so impressed by RJ Sahibs hospitality and commitment to go out of the way to welcome us(he could just as easily have left the next morning without meeting us!) that we proceeded to set up our Factories at Barotiwala and Nalagarh.
Thanks to Ms. Charu Walia (Chief OCA Coordinator) for the deep research and writeup.