Malji Ka Kamra, Churu

We love saying that Shekhawati is not just about seeing its great havelis (mansions) and their fresco paintings. Unlike the princely palaces and forts, the heritage of Shekhawati belongs to its people – the Marwari merchants. So, as impressive as our havelis are (and we are proud to be doing one of the best guided tours of the “open art gallery“ in region), the Churu experience is about the people – the merchants, the artisans, the farmers, the workers and so many more like us. Knowing these people, their stories, their lives is what makes it special. Lal Singh - I am your expert on havelis and frescos, part time manager, street expert and so much more. Born in Castle Mahansar (near Churu) and brought up in a conventional family, I have closely seen rituals of traditional life of Rajasthan. Since my father worked in Churu as a lawyer, our family has always had a special connection with Churu. I am a post-graduate in History and my love for Rajasthani art, culture and architecture has led me to work a lot to unfold the remote and less-travelled villages and streets of the region. While I used to think of myself as a tour-guide (that’s what I did for 15 years), my association with Malji has been different. At Malji, I am everything our guest would want me to be – but having said that our havelis are still my passion. And believe me, there is no other haveli like the one we run – it really is in its own zone. A decade ago, I have been to some of the western european countries and visited their historical places. My wish is that we can make Churu like that – neat, clean, responsible and a treat to walk around with oodles of history to marvel at and a lot more color.