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The halls are adorned with portraits of
previous owners, the only way for the visitor to know
something about the people who once lived, laughed, played,
cried within these walls. Of special note is the gentleman in
a dark turban, tied in typically Rajasthani style.
Another feature of note is the opulent apartment complex
within the haveli, where the owners treated their friends and
guests to dances and lavish meals. This was the place where
favors were sought, temporary alliances formed, court
intrigues fostered, and battles of wits were played. The
palace has an arched roof, a typical feature of Rajasthani
architecture. The 300 odd balconies in the haveli are unique
among Rajasthan’s palaces and havelis – none of the balconies
are alike. The uppermost two stories of the haveli resemble
the front part of a ship – thus the alternative name for the
haveli – Jahaz Mahal.
The hero, or the villain of the piece, depending on how you
see it, did not live for too long in this opulent haveli that
he built for himself and his harem. When he became too big for
his boots, the king had to step in to cut him down to size.
Ultimately, Salim Singh met the same fate as his father. Since
we live in less dangerous times today (at least none of us
stand the chance of being killed in a court intrigue because
we happen to be the favorite of the king), visiting the haveli
has its own charm. |
