Your Rendezvous With The City

The
charismatic sands of Rajasthan have attracted many for long. To the northern
Rajasthan lies a region Shekahwati. Not a town nor a fort, it is a name
given to a region that comprises of many villages and townships. The
frescoes and mural paintings of the region are quite interesting to see.
Tourists visit the place for these exquisite arts. The torrid region become
exciting by the paintings depicting scenes from religion, history, society
and folk themes. Various towns that comprises Shekhawati region are Bagar,
Lachhmangarh, Chirawa, Mukundgarh, Fatehpur, Ramgarh, Dundlod,
Nawalgarh,
Mandawa, Khetri, Pilani, Alsisar, Bissau, Maisisar, Salasar, Churi, Ajitgarh
and Mahansar.
Glimpses From History
Many historians trace the History of Shekhawati back to the times of Hindu
Scriptures. The region is regarded as a part of Matsya kingdom. The region
was called 'brahmrishi desha' in the Manusmriti. Even Rigveda gives
evidences of the region being in existence at that time. Shekhawati was
included in the 'marukantar desha' in the times of Ramayana.
Shekhawats, the offspring of the
great Kachawaha Rajput warrior Rao Shekha ( 1443 1488), are the the
most significant of the all the Kachawahas. Rao Shekha dominated the region
called 'Shekhawati', constituting the districts of Sikar, Jhunjhunu, Churu.
Shekahawati region has produced greatest of the warriors in the Indian
history. The soldiers sacrificed in the first and second World Wars. The
people are deemed chivalrous and diligent. Shekhawast have founded and ruled
the region till Indian independence. The region was the largest of the
Nizamat of
Jaipur.
A Tourist's Delight
Architectural Wonders: The region of Shekhawati is known
for lavish mansions, massive forts and unique palaces built by the rulers in
a Rajputana style. The art and architecture of these structures is worth
seeing. The edifices are exquisitely done and beautifully adorned. During
18th century to early 20th century, the regions has got many beautiful
buildings including temples, mansions and
forts.
Frescoes: The mansions and forts are renowned for their
exclusive frescoes. These frescoes have varied themes of religion, history
and folk lores. Lovely images of gods, goddesses, animals, life history of
Lords Rama and Krishna, is the highlight of the mansions of this region.
Safaris: Safaris are the hottest attraction of this
region. Tourists love to see the distant and remote places traversing on a
horse's back or a camel's back. The thrill of these safaris is hard to pen
down but easy to experience. The desert of Rajasthan is best explored
through exciting safari rides.
Heritage Voyage: You will love to visit the lesser known
and vibrant terrains of Shekhawati Region on The Heritage on Wheels, a
luxury tourist train on meter gauge in Rajasthan by RTDC and Indian
Railways.
Highlights of Shekhawati
The region is remarkable for the celebrations of various fairs and
festivals. The otherwise monotonous desert life invigorates during the
festivities. Major festivals of the region include Gangaur, Dusshera, Teej
and Holi. People can be seen frolicking, merry making and feasting on these
days. Young and old enjoy alike. You should be a part of the celebrations to
feel the enjoyment at the fairs and festivals of Shekhawati. Shekhawati
Festival, held every year in the month of February, is a yet another major
Tourist Attraction in Shekhawati.
Not To Pretermit
- Camel and Horse Safaris are a must for tourists for an exciting
experience.
- The festivities on festivals is worth enjoying.
- The forts, castles and mansions are a must visit.
- Do check out the frescoes, murals, paintings on the edifices.
- You cab buy for yourself some decorative items or carved furniture
like chests, chairs, cradles, low tables, stools and wooden doors.