Wanna see an open art gallery in Rajasthan existing in the form of colourful frescoes?
If yes, you should take a tour to Shekhawati and you are bound to fall in love looking at the mesmerising art flowing on walls and ceilings here.
The age-old havelis exist in vast spread nine villages of Shekhawati region, namely, Mandawa, Laxmangarh, Fatehpur, Nawalgarh, Ramgarh, Bissau, Chirawa, Dundlod and Mahansar.
In fact, the history of Shekhawati region is quite interesting which once housed 22 ‘crorepatis’ including the biggies namely Oswals, Mittals, Birlas, Goenkas, Singhanias etc. All of them have had their roots here in the region
The town symbolises a striking similarity as almost all havelis used natural colours till the 19th century. While Lime was a substitute for white, indigo, vermilion, ultramarine, verdigris, etc was used in prayer rooms and bedrooms. The themes of these havelis reflected the colourful frescoes speak the stories of mythology, local festivals and love stories.
Now let’s discuss a few havelis which have been luring the tourists from world across:
Seth Arjundas Goenka Haveli: Situated in Dundlod, this haveli is one among those constructed way back in 1875. It houses 20 rooms, accommodates a fortified gate and is also housing a museum.
Ramgarh Fresco Hotel: This is yet another haveli which speaks how traders collected a vast wealth and later were spending it to beautify their havelis.
In fact, Ramgarh has the largest number of frescoes existing in Shekhawati. The once Khemka Haveli has now been converted into a century-old Haveli called as Ramgarh Fresco Hotel. Regular walking tours are organised around this painted town.
Piramal Haveli: Seth Piramal Chaturbhuj Makhania built this haveli in 1928 which accommodates a big garden in present times which has two pillared courtyards too.
It also houses colourful wall tiles and pretty kitsch frescoes, which show flying angels and gods with motorcars. Presently, Neemrana group manages this property.
Once you visit this region, you shall hear the stories how the Shekhwati region came into being. The story dates back to the 15th century when Rao Shekhaji (1433-88) conquered north region of Amer, called as Shekhawati. This region changed the fortunes of many businesses.
The traders made money and spent in making beautiful artistic havelis due to which this region, even in present times, remains the largest open-air gallery in Rajasthan.