Karauli

A surreal two days at Bhanwar Villas Palace. The warmest of welcomes from two and four leggeds. Marwari horses have the softest noses and cutest curly ears. Unfortunately they don’t speak English and my Hindi is somewhat limited but we got along just fine in the end.

The Maharajah and Maharini don’t stand on ceremony. They are an extraordinary couple with incredible vision and foresight combined with a strong passion for India and her people. Amongst other things they have set up sewing cooperative for the women in the villages - (how do they sew on the floor?) He is a keen farmer and lover of nature and has a passion for the Marwari horses. Palomino ones. They have both been involved in politics, with the Maharani holding office of Mayor. ‘A Princess Remembers’ is up there on the reading list. It’s all related. There is so much to learn.

The family lived in the City Palace until 1932. A sprawling complex of helmet shaped domes intricately carved stonework and richly decorated walls. It is currently being restored - the artists having been trained by their son. Fascinating to watch them at work. It’s a sensitive merging of the old and new. It’s clever leaving sections of the original artwork to contrast and compare.Read more