A recent episode of the Ministry of Tourism’s Dekho Apna Desh Webinar series has focused on the architectural heritage of Bundi, Rajasthan.

Try this PYQ:

Q.With reference to Dhrupad, one of the major traditions of India that has been kept alive for centuries, which of the following statements are correct?

1. Dhrupad originated and developed in the Rajput kingdoms during the Mughal period.
2. Dhrupad is primarily a piece of devotional and spiritual music.
3. Dhrupad Alap uses Sanskrit syllables from Mantras.

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1, 2 and 3

(d) None of the above

About Bundi

• Bundi erstwhile capital of Hada Rajput province known as Hadauti located in south-eastern Rajasthan is one such place.
• Bundi is also known as City of step walls, blue city and also as Chotti Kashi.
• In ancient times, the area around Bundi was apparently inhabited by various local tribes, of which the Parihar Tribes, Meena was prominent.
• Later the region was governed by Rao Deva, who took over Bundi from Jaita Meena in 1242, renaming the surrounding area as Haravati or Haroti.
• For the next two centuries, the Hadas of Bundi were the vassals of the Sisodias of Mewar and ruled by the title of Rao until 1569, after Emperor Akbar.

Important architecture

• The City of Bundi grew outwards Taragarh hill. A small habitat developed at the foothills of the fort itself.
• The location of the royal palace was on a steep slope overlooking the valley below, providing a view of the vast surrounding hinterland.
• Garh Mahal became the focus and an imposing landmark on the skyline of Bundi was visible from the valley below. In the next 200 years, the entire cluster was built.
• The best example of medieval Indian city exhibiting water harvesting methods adopted at settlement level as well as the finest examples of water architecture.
• Location of Baoris and Kunds outside the walled city was also influenced by social considerations as access to baoris and kunds were located within the walled city was controlled.

Architectural heritage of Bundi can be classified as:

1) Garh (Fort): Taragarh

2) Garh Mahal (Royal Palace)

• Bhoj Mahal
• Chattar Mahal
• Ummed Mahal

3) Baori (Step well)

• Khoj Darwaja ki Baori
• Bhawaldi Baori

4) Kund (Stepped tank)

• Dhabhai ji ka Kund
• Nagar Kund & Sagar Kund
• Rani Kund

5) Sagar mahal (Lake Palace)

• Moti Mahal
• Sukh Mahal
• Shikar Burj

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