• Niraj Kumar Singh

The Shekhawati area, situated in the northeastern part of Rajasthan, India, is renowned for its abundant history, culture, and architectural legacy. Over an extended period, this region has been influenced by various Rajput and Marwari families, who have played a significant role in the development, progression, and preservation of distinctive Havelis (elaborate mansions), forts, and fortresses, along with their associated art and architecture. Its name derives from the Shekhawat Rajputs, historically linked to this area, although their influence extended across the broader Rajputana region, of which Shekhawati is a part. Additionally, the region has been the ancestral home of notable Marwari families such as the Singhania, Birla, Poddar, among others. Originally hailing from this region, Marwari merchants and traders have also contributed to its prosperity and development. Shekhawati holds great significance in conserving and presenting traditional art forms, architectural styles, and cultural heritage. Elaborate residential settlements known as Havelis, adorned with intricate murals and frescoes, narrate the narrative of luxury and artistic sensibility of its inhabitants. The region has prominently featured on India's tourist map, attracting a large number of foreign visitors. Regrettably, many of these Havelis now stand neglected, in need of restoration and upkeep, as most of their original proprietors have relocated to major cities and towns in India. Urgent attention is imperative from both owners and heritage organizations to revive these splendid expressions of art and architecture, which bear witness to the opulent cultural history of Rajasthan.

Marwari, Rajput, Murals and Frescoes, Haveli, Restoration

"Brushstrokes of Rajasthan: Exploring Shekhawati's Murals Art", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.10, Issue 10, page no.b589-b594, October-2023, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2310161.pdf

"Brushstrokes of Rajasthan: Exploring Shekhawati's Murals Art", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.10, Issue 10, page no. ppb589-b594, October-2023, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2310161.pdf