Havelis of Shekhawati

Shekhawati as a region is known for its beautifully painted Havelis, spread over Jhunjhunu, Sikar and Churu districts in northwestern Rajasthan. Built by rich Marwari merchants of the region, Shekhawati's magnificent mansions display a unique architectural style that evolved around the courtyards to ensure safety and privacy of the womenfolk and protection from the heat of the long and harsh summers.

Painted predominantly in blue, maroon, yellow, green and indigo the Havelis of Shekhavati have beautiful frescoes that adorn their walls. Earlier wall paintings were largely based on the mythological themes, depicting gods, heroes, epics and local legends; animals, portraits hunting and wrestling scenes and a glimpses of every day life.

The turn of the 19th century saw the appearance of new motifs, an outcome of the British Raj's influence upon the Indian Culture. The paintings continued with the mythological themes, but the new entries included European oleographs, lithographs and photographs. Trains, cars, balloons, telephones, gramophones, English men in hunting attires and portraits of Haveli owners primly dressed were painted profusely.