Rajasthan Cities/Shikhavati

 

Shekhavati

Shekhavati is the homeland of many Marwari families. The 'garden of Shekha' was named after Rao Shekhaji of Amarsar (1433-88) who challenged the Kachhawahas, refusing to pay tribute to the rulers at Amber) though many of the paintings for which the region is famous date from the mid-19th century. Shekhavati remained independent from 1471 to 1738. The Rajputs lavishly decorated their houses with paintings on religious, folk and historical themes.The lawless bandit area in the early 19th century was brought under control and the Marwari merchants migrated to other parts of the country to seek their fortune when burdened with taxes and tolls by the British East India Company. Rajput power waned, but the merchants who flourished returned their wealth to their homeland and took over as patrons of the artists.

The magnificent painted havelis in present-day Sikar and Jhunjhunun districts forming an "open-air art gallery" are open to visitors. They are often occupied by family members or retainers; who will happily welcome your visit.

How to Reach

Road : From Jaipur take the National Highway II Northwest to Riagas (63 km) and Sikar (48 km).