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4th September 2024 (11 Topics)

Conservation of Jaipur's Walled City

Context

In 2019, Jaipur’s Walled City was honored with UNESCO World Heritage status, recognizing its exceptional architectural and cultural value. To ensure the preservation and enhancement of this historic site, the state government has allocated Rs 100 crore for conservation and development initiatives.

About Jaipur’s Walled City:

  • The Walled City of Jaipur was founded in 1727 by Sawai Jai Singh II (the ruler of the Kachwaha Rajput dynasty). The city was designed by Vidyadhar Bhattacharya, a Bengali architect, and was built according to the principles of Vastu Shastra, an ancient Indian system of architecture.
  • Architectural Features: It is a prime example of Vedic urban planning, combining ancient Hindu, Mughal, and Western architectural styles.
    • The city’s grid-based layout, characterized by its pink facades, large public squares (chaupars), and colonnaded streets, was pivotal in its recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Key landmarks include the City Palace, Jal Mahal, Hawa Mahal, Amber Fort, Jaigarh Fort, and Nahargarh Fort
  • There are 8 gates in Jaipur including the Jorawar Singh Gate, Surajpole Gate, Sanganeri Gate, New Gate, Ajmeri Gate, Chandpole Gate, Ghat Gate, and Samrat Gate.
  • Famous dances of Jaipur: Ghoomar, Chari
  • Traditional instruments: Sarangi, Ektara, and Jhala

Fact Box: Kachwaha Rajput dynasty

  • The Kachwaha are a Rajput clan who ruled a number of kingdoms and princely states such as Alwar, Amber (now Jaipur), Maihar and Talcher in India. Their largest kingdom was Jaipur (Jainagara).
  • Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II is regarded as the head of the extended clan of Kachhwaha.
  • The Kachwaha Rajputs are believed to be the descendants of Kush the eldest son of Shri Ram. This Kshatriya clan of Rajput thus belongs to the Suryavanshi/Sooryavanshi.
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