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Shekhawati: The Tale of Havelis and Forts

By Akshatha

Shekhawati in Rajasthan is a historical region consisting of Jhunjhuna, Sikar , Churu and Nagaur districts. It is a desert region which has many havelis ( mansions) and forts dating back to 18th and 19th century.

Shekhawati was created by Shekhawat Rajput, Rao Shekha Ji. They ruled the region till Indian Independence. It is during their rule that many forts and palaces were built.

Rajasthan as such is known for its forts and palaces. Shekhawati also has many frescoed havelis ( mansions) which are a major attraction.

The mansions are very rich in art and architecture. They were built by Marwaris ( a business community) during 1830 - 1930; rich Marwaris brought artists to paint these buildings, and to leave an imprint of their culture and society.

After a time, Marwaris migrated to the cities like Mumbai and Gujarat, thus leaving these havelis behind. The region with the largest collection of frescoes is called as 'Open Art Gallery of Rajasthan'.

These bungalows have fresco images of gods, goddesses, animals, etc. Even to this day, these are a major tourist places in Rajasthan. Apart from the architecture, Shekhawati is known for some splendid desert landscapes.

These are also a favourite shooting locations of Bollywood filmakers. Salman Khan starrer 'Bajrangi Bhaijaan' has shot many sequences in Mandawa.

Let's us have a look at these amazing locations!

Mandawa Fort

Mandawa Fort

Mandawa fort has frescos of Lord Krishna; various other depictions of culture and life of people.
Photo Courtesy: Dhirad

Haveli in Mandawa

Haveli in Mandawa

One of these havelis in Mandawa served as a shooting location for Bhajrangi Bhaijaan film.
Photo Courtesy: Dhirad

A Pond in Fatehpur

A Pond in Fatehpur

Shekhawati Rajputs had conquered Fatehpur and this is a bawdi (pond) built during those times.
Photo Courtesy: LRBurdak

Laxmangarh Fort

Laxmangarh Fort

Laxmangarh Fort in Sikar was built by Laxman Singh in 1862, who also founded a village called as Laxmangarh.
Photo Courtesy: Mukul pareek

Churu Desert

Churu Desert

Churu in Shekhawati is known as the 'Gateway to the Thar desert of Rajasthan'.
Photo Courtesy: Jaisingh_rathore

Paintings on the Walls of a House

Paintings on the Walls of a House

There many houses which have paintings in Shekhawati of Rajasthan.
Photo Courtesy: Ahron de Leeuw

Nagaur Fort

Nagaur Fort

Nagaur Fort is one of the best examples for Rajput - Mughal architecture. Also known as the 'Fort of Hooded Cobra' was one of the first Muslim strongholds in North India.
Photo Courtesy: Rituraj.bharti

Dadhimati Mata Temple in Nagaur

Dadhimati Mata Temple in Nagaur

Dadhimati Mata Temple was built by Gupta dynasty is the oldest temple in Nagaur.
Photo Courtesy: Prem Sukh Didel

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