Rajasthan: An Enduring Romance (Cadogan Guides)

Language: EnglishPages: 96About the Book:The colour and romance of Rajasthan, in both its unity and diversity, is the focus of this book. This essence manifests itself in Rajasthan's History, customs, celebrations, rituals, architecture and art, but most of all in the indomitable spirit of the people, whether noble or of humble birth. Shared notions of honour, chivalry, valour and hierarchy unite the people of Rajasthan across divides of social class and region, and give them their distinctive ethos.The author, Sunil Mehra, evokes this ethos in an exposition that takes into account the multi-faceted reality of Rajasthan. Thus, the sightseer's curiosity about the historical and architectural details of Rajasthan's myriad monuments will be satisfied with the same felicity of description as the amateur etnographer's avidity for richly-textured descriptions of the customs and rituals of the Rajasthani people in all their variety and beauty. Nor will the historically-minded be disappointed-there is a wealth of detail about genealogies and dynasties, battles and stratagems; the anecdotal merges seamlessly with the larger canvas.For those who want to experience, understand and shared the mystique of what Rajasthan was, and what it is now, this book will be an indispensable companion and guide.About the Author: Sunil Mehra was a lecturer in English Literature at Rajasthan University before turning to writing as a full time profession. Now a travel writer and a newspaper columnist, he hopes soon to put together a volume of short stories.Coming as he does, from a civil servant's family, a large part of his childhood was spent in Rajasthan, where his family was based. His romance with Rajasthan, its people, he