In the heart of Rajasthan, a 200-year-old palace has been meticulously restored and reborn as a luxurious heritage hotel. The Fatehbagh Palace, once on the brink of demolition, now stands as a testament to the region's rich history and architectural splendor. This revival not only preserves a piece of the past but also offers travelers an immersive cultural experience in the serene landscape of Ranakpur.
Nestled amidst the scenic Aravalli ranges and in proximity to the renowned Ranakpur Jain temples, the Fatehbagh Palace is a remarkable 25,000 sq ft edifice that occupies an area equivalent to three football fields. The square-shaped, light biscuit-colored palace, with its grand arches, ornate pillars, and pavilions, is a sight to behold. Its domes and an elegant fountain add to the picturesque setting, enhancing the allure of the Ranakpur region.
The palace, originally known as "Ravla Koshilav," had stood in the village of Koshilav, 50 km from its current location. Two years ago, the structure faced imminent destruction until Jitendra Singh Rathore, a heritage hotelier and descendant of a local Rajput family, along with his wife Gayatri Kumari, intervened. Rathore, moved by the palace's beauty and historical significance, decided to undertake the colossal task of relocating and restoring the palace.
The process of dismantling and reconstructing the palace was a monumental undertaking. Rathore and his team meticulously cataloged each piece of the structure, assigning color-coded numbers to over 65,000 components, including stone slabs, columns, and wooden elements. This intricate system allowed for accurate reassembly, akin to solving a massive jigsaw puzzle. The medieval sandstone construction featured a lock-and-key system, ensuring that each piece could be seamlessly integrated during the rebuilding process.
Rathore's vision was brought to life with the help of local artisans and without the guidance of a qualified architect. The team included Mohanji Kumavat, a building contractor specializing in Rajput architecture, and a group of 50 skilled workers, among them Farooq Khan, an expert in Rajput-style painting restoration, and Suresh Yadav, a marble floor specialist. Hemant Jain, a civil engineer, also played a crucial role in the reconstruction.
The palace boasts several unique features, including the "chattarpattas" or floral motif crowns, a symbol of honor bestowed upon noblemen by Rajput rulers for their achievements. The palace originally had 65 of these intricate carvings, which have been preserved in the restoration.
Another highlight is the expansive hall facing the front garden, supported by 24 pillars and adorned with 22 arches, alongside a lotus-shaped fountain hall. The "Suraj Gokhla," a perforated pavilion, ensures privacy for the zenana (women's quarters) while allowing sunlight to filter through. The hall below, where men conducted business, is flanked by galleries, enabling women to observe without being seen.
The restoration journey was fraught with challenges, including a numbering error that initially prevented the fitting of 13 jharokhas (overhanging balconies). Rathore's determination and hands-on approach eventually resolved the issue, further deepening his expertise in Rajput architecture.
Rathore has been discreet about the total investment in the project, but estimates suggest that over Rs 2 crore (approximately $250,000 USD) was spent on the restoration. The HRH Group of Hotels, led by Arvind Singhji Mewar, has expressed interest in leasing Fatehbagh Palace, recognizing its potential as a heritage destination.
Fatehbagh Palace now stands as a "Garden of Victory," ready to welcome guests and immerse them in the grandeur of Rajput heritage. The palace's transformation is a significant achievement in cultural preservation and sustainable tourism, offering a unique blend of history and luxury in the serene setting of Ranakpur.
For more information on Fatehbagh Palace and to book a stay in this historical gem, visit their official website here.
Interesting statistics and discussions about heritage hotel conversions in India are scarce, but the trend is growing as travelers seek authentic experiences. According to a report by the Indian Ministry of Tourism, there were over 900 approved heritage hotels in the country as of 2019. These establishments not only contribute to the economy but also play a crucial role in preserving historical structures and promoting cultural heritage.
