From the Land of the Rajas: Creativity in Rajasthan

From the Land of the Rajas:

Creativity in Rajasthan

History

The Rajputs entered what is now Rajasthan between the seventh and eleventh century AD, but for much of the past millennium, they have been dominated by larger empires. During the Delhi Sultanate (1206–1526), the Rajput kingdoms contended with Muslim emperors, followed by the Mughal Empire (1526–1857), also Islamic, and the British Empire (1803–1947). At Indian Independence in 1947, the state of Rajasthan was created out of nineteen princely states ruled by Maharajas and Maharanas (the latter term used exclusively by the former rulers of Mewar, now Udaipur district) along with areas under direct British control.

After Independence, the power of these semi-independent princes was gradually curtailed, until 1971, when the Indian constitution removed all their special titles, privileges, and financial support. Since then, they have had to support themselves as private individuals, although most are still quite wealthy. Conversely, the artists who used to be supported by these princes now have to look elsewhere, finding their way in a new commercial economy.

Fort
Photo by Shalini Ayyagari, Jaisalmer, 2005–06

(L) Lake Palace
Photo by Shalini Ayyagari, Jaipur, 2005–06

(R) Rural village
Photo by Shalini Ayyagari, near Jaislamer, 2005–06

Puppets

Henna prints

Religious Paintings