Haveli

A haveli is a traditional townhouse, mansion, or manor house, in the Indian subcontinent, usually one with historical and architectural significance, and located in a town or city.

The word haveli is derived from Arabic hawali, meaning "partition" or "private space", popularised under the Mughal Empire, and was devoid of any architectural affiliations.

[1][2] Later, the word haveli came to be used as a generic term for various styles of regional mansions, manor houses, and townhouses found in the Indian subcontinent.

[1] Early havelis served Muslim rulers of the Indian Subcontinent and became an important architectural component of urban environments under the Mughals.

[4][5] Courtyards are a common feature traditional houses in the Indian subcontinent with early examples dating back to the Neolithic period, whether they are mansions or farmhouses.

During the medieval period, the term haveli was also applied by some Vaishnava sects to refer to their temples in Gujarat under the Mughal Empire and Rajputana kingdoms.

These havelis are noted for their frescoes depicting images of gods, goddesses, animals, scenes from the British colonization, and the life stories of Lords Rama and Krishna.

[8] The havelis served as status symbols for the Marwaris as well as homes for their extended families, providing security and comfort in seclusion from the outside world.

The towns and villages of Ahirwal are as well famous for the embellished frescoes on the walls of their grandiose havelis depicting the Lord Krishan which was developed in late 17 Century to the point of still it will take time to becoming popular tourist attractions.

The ostentatious carvings, etched in sandstone with great detail and then painstakingly pieced together in lavish patterns, were commissioned to put on show the owner's status and wealth.

[11] Patwon Ji Ki is renowned for its ornate wall paintings, intricate yellow sandstone-carved jharokhas (balconies), gateways and archways.