BIKANER: A CULMINATION OF ARCHITECTURAL ELEGANCE WITH VISUAL HARMONY

Abstract

The city of Bikaner is a unique blend of culture, art and architecture. Famous for its dulmera stone cladded mansions it is often referred as the “City of thousand Havelis”. The havelis are 100-400 years old redefines its glorious past. Its distinctive architectural style is marked by features like carved stone jaalis, projected jharokhas, stone brackets, wooden doors/windows, fresco works and more . The compact city planning with narrow streets and climate responsive layout creates harmony in architecture by blending art, science and architecture. The traditional art form such as Usta art or Sunehri munawwati nakkashi, Aala-gila and fresco work were employed in interiors reflecting the skill of artisans and traditional excellence.

The architecture in Bikaner evolved over the year influenced by varied cultures. The invasion of Mughals, British in India affected politically, economically, culturally. The fusion of Persian, Mughals, British in Rajputana styles was evident in art and architecture. The havelis integrated these elements while preserving its traditional character and identity. The artisans from varied cultures exchanged their skills developed a distinct style and aesthetic value. The forts, havelis (merchant’s townhouse), religious buildings, its decorative elements all exhibits the unique architectural character and a captivating visual language integrating the climate responsive design. Thus Bikaner city plan is an exceptional example integrating the conscious design and aesthetics considering appropriate material selection and creating harmonic cooperation between form and function.