Exploring Shekhawati: Rajasthan’s open-air art gallery of frescoed havelis
Shekhawati, located in northern Rajasthan, is renowned for its intricate frescoed havelis, making it a significant cultural destination. The region's history dates back to the 15th century when it became a thriving trading corridor, leading to the construction of grand havelis by wealthy merchants. Today, these havelis serve as heritage hotels and museums, showcasing the rich mercantile culture of the past.
- ▪Shekhawati is often referred to as the world's largest open-air art gallery due to its concentration of frescoed havelis.
- ▪The region flourished as a trading corridor in the 15th century, attracting Marwari and Jain traders who commissioned grand havelis.
- ▪Mandawa is a prominent town in Shekhawati, known for its medieval architecture and vibrant frescoes.
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“This haveli is at least a hundred years old, so are the frescos in your room,” the bellman tells me proudly as he opens the low-hung wooden door that requires you to bow to enter. After five hours on the road from Delhi, I am eager to rest before heading out to explore Churu, one of several towns where you can experience the faded grandeur of Shekhawati. Often described as the world’s largest open-air art gallery, this region in northern Rajasthan is known for its dense concentration of 18th–20th Century merchant havelis hand-painted with intricate frescoes.What I do not yet realise is that my exploration has already begun, right here inside my room at Malji Ka Kamra, one of several havelis now restored as heritage hotels.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at The Hindu — Top.
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