Restoration at work !
CWC commission’s extensive restoration work in the City
Palace
On display, at the entrance to the Zenana Mahal, is a
wooden door once extensively decorated, depicting Lord Ganesh,
that was commissioned by Maharana Bhupal Singh, on the occasion of
Maharana Bhagwat
Singh’s wedding in 1940.In order to preserve the wood, the door was
subsequently coated in layers of varnish and put into storage. It
has now been fully restored by Ms. Rashmi Sharma, restorer.
In
former times the Ban Nathji Temple complex housed all worshipped
deities in one single temple. The existing temple, dedicated to
Lord Vishnu, has been exquisitely restored and two other temples
housing the deities of the Gods Shiva, Shakti and Ganesh have been
constructed. Frescoes adorn the walls, velvet canopies hang from the
ceilings and the melodic chanting of the mantras fils the silence. The
holy temples are not yet open to members of the public and admission to
the temples is strictly by appointment only.
In 2002, the former Horse Carriage of Maharana Sajjan Singh was
meticulously restored. Drawn by eight horses, this European style
carriage was used by the Maharana in the mid 1880s. It was the first
carriage of its kind ever to be seen in Udaipur and since the Maharana
supervised a number of civic
programmes, it was often used when he travelled about the City. In
marked
contrast to the western style carriage as here, the Coachman and Chanwar
(Fly whisk) Wallahs wore traditional dress.
Two Myana (Palanquin) have
been repainted and reupholstered to their original splendour. The
Myana were used by the Maharanis and noble ladies in the olden times.
The interior was upholstered with cushions and heavy curtains hung
around the palanquin to protect the ladies from public view. The Myana
were carried by four escorts who traditionally were tribal people. Two
restored Myana are available
to hire for weddings. In keeping with tradition,
curtains hide the bride from view and the Myana is covered with flowers
and garlands.
The Jethi were palanquin carriers and entertainers in the courts of the
Maharanas. They were also known for their strength and, were awarded
special privileges.
The Ganesh Door of the Zenana Deodhi (entrance) was originally painted in 1940, during the wedding of Maharaj Kumar Bhagwat Singhiji. Subsequently to protect the wood it was given a coat of varnish. Conservation work on this door was carried out by Ms. Rashmi Sharma, restorer, in 2006
and given particularly nourishing and sustaining
food. They also provided entertainment to the
Maharana and his court by taking part in wrestling
competitions. The Tam Jam or open litters were used by the Maharana and noble men. The Tam Jam used by Maharana Fateh Singhji is intricately decorated with mirror in-lay and was carried by eight Jethi.
The Red and Gold open Litter with glass work was specially made for Maharan Fateh Singhji (period 1884-1930). Eight specially trained Jethi persons would carry this piece called "Mahajam". This was restored to its original glory in 2005.
Other restoration and building activities incorporate the changing responsibilities of the HRH Group. As an increasing number of functions take place in the Zenana Mahal, new kitchens will soon provide state-of-the-art facilities for the events in this most
majestic and sought after venue.
