Art

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The newly-restored havelis of Mandawa in Rajasthan paint a picture of its rich past

February 17, 2025

In the heart of Rajasthan, where the desert wind whispers through ochre streets, the town of Mandawa is quietly reclaiming its past. Once a thriving stop on a historic trade route, its grand havelis — mansions adorned with intricate frescoes — had fallen into neglect. But today, a revival is underway.

Local artists and restorers are uncovering centuries-old frescoes that depict tales of Rajput kings, Mughal artistry, and even colonial quirks — an Englishman with a telephone, a steam train rendered in striking pinks and reds. Some havelis, like the Gulab Rai Ladia Haveli, are being meticulously transformed into boutique hotels, offering a window into Shekhawati’s storied past. Others remain untouched, their weathered murals whispering echoes of a once-glorious era.

Mandawa’s slow-blooming renaissance is drawing those who seek culture beyond Rajasthan’s well-trodden routes. With each brushstroke and restoration project, the town is  preserving its legacy while inviting the world to rediscover it.

 

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