The frescoes and paintings of the Shekhawati havelis are renowned the world over. Photographers and travellers come from across the globe to capture the vivid and colourful beauty of these paintings, that adorn the Rajasthani walls with natural colours. But there is one place that stands apart, even in this royal canvas.
Churu has since long been forgotten in popular tourist circuits. But it is a special place. Aptly named as ‘The Gateway To Thar’, Churu is a paradise for anyone with a nuanced sense of aesthetics.
Churu does not have a rich history of kings and battles, unlike the rest of Rajasthan. In fact, it was the hub for Marwari tradesmen and business families. And the like the merchants of yore, they travelled across continents, and brought back tales. And one of these influences is starkly felt in Churu, like no where else.
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There are 100 havelis in Churu. And what makes them stand apart is the beautiful frescoes on their ceilings. Each master-piece is grander than the other. The paintings and frescos on these depict the lives of the owners and new concepts of that time. The frescos are vivid and bright, as if painted only recently, despite wasting away from decades.
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For a photographer the havelis of Churu are a visual delight. There are paintings on ceilings that can rival the art of the Sistine Chapel. Not only the frescoes, but there is even a Jain temple which has strong influences of the Versailles Palace of Paris. There are strong European influences in the designing of the temple and the effect is a sight to behold.
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You should also not miss the sunset from the Sethani ka Johra, a water reservoir built 150 years ago by the widow of richest merchant in town of the Bagla family. Churu is also the perfect spot to explore the unending dunes of the Thar Desert. A 30 minute drive, and you will find yourself facing the ruthless but beautiful desert of shifting dunes and alluring enchantments.
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Churu is well connected by trains to most Indian cities. In fact, it is only a five hour drive from Delhi. Although the accommodation can be a concern, as there are only one or two hotels in this town.
So, plan your trip to one of the most beautiful, yet alluring town of India.
