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The semi desert region of Shekhawati holds a fascination all of its own.
'The open-air art gallery', as it is popularly called, is famous for the
plethora of plain red havelis, all commendable pieces of the rich artistic
tradition of this region. 'Shekhawati ', meaning "the land of Shekha 's dan "
derives its name from Rao Shekha (1433 AD-1488 AD) a scion of the Kachhwah
family of Jaipur. Earlier a part of the former Jaipur state, it now comprises of
the districts of Jhunjhunu and Sikar.
Initially, the region had a blank monochromatic look but with subsequent
historical and social developments, it has blossomed into a colourful profusion
of art and life for almost 2 centuries from 1750 AD to 1930 AD.
Havelis at Shekhawati built by rich merchants of the region, display a unique
architectural style that evolved around the courtyards to ensure safety and
privacy of the women folk and protection from the heat of the long and harsh
summers.
The havelis, painted predominantly in blue, maroon, yellow green and indigo have
beautiful wall paintings that adorn their walls.
The earlier wall paintings (1830 AD -1900 AD) were largely based on the
mythological themes, depicting local legends, animals, portraits, hunting and
wrestling scenes and a glimpse of everyday life.
The turn of the 19th century saw the appearance of new motifs, an outcome of the
Raj's influence upon the Indian culture. Now, cars replaced elephants and
traditional Indian miniatures mingled with naturalism of western paintings to
produce interesting hybrid results. The mythological themes depicting gods,
heroes, epics and legends were substituted by European oleographs, lithographs
and photographs.
Trains, cars, balloons, telephones, gramophones, English men in hunting attires
and portraits of the haveli owners primely dressed, were painted all over the
walls - thus making the havelis interesting for both Indian and foreign
travellers.
GETTING THERE:
Air: Jaipur is the nearest airport, 120 km away from shekhawati.
Train: Mainline railway joining Delhi, Jaipur,Bikaner crosses Shekhawati
Road: Shekhawati is 120 km by road from Jaipur. THis is the most convenient way
to tour Shekhawati and surrounding areas.
Local Transport: Jeeps and local buses are available for commuting locally. One
may also hire a taxi from Jaipur or Sikar to visit Shekhawati.
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