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or
decades, if not centuries, the Rajput fortress, the
defensive
castle, the composite havel iwas
the abode of nobility-
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hospitality
was a way of life. Visitors, guests,
even strangers were
welcomed in a tradition that was a part of the life styles.
Even enemies, should they have come calling , were treated
with utmost respect. And an extensive network of matrimonial
alliances amongst the warring clans ensured that all battles
ended on the field.
The chivalry and gallantry of the warrior clans was reflected
in the architecture of the feudal homes. A grand entrance
was reserved for state guests. There were separate viewing
galleries for woman, and the ladies of the 'zenana' conducted
their own durbars and wielded considerable power from behind
the 'purdah' |
Post independence democratic India witnessed the merger
of the Princely States, aboition of 'Jagirs' land reforms
and finally the withdrawal of the special privileges and
privy purse from the royal families a few decades later
consequently the noble families lost their traditional means
of livelihood and even the wealthy merchants left their
homes for more lucrative pastures.
Their large castles and mansions lay almost abandoned or
unattended till a few enterprising pioneers realised that
perhaps the only way to maintain these historic homes was
their appropriate reuse. The large Palaces of the Maharajas
set the trend by becoming five star hotels. Now, some of
the ancestral homes too find sustenance in this new lease
of life -
as Heritage Hotels, in different parts
of India.
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Much
of the charm of these heritage hotels, united under a common
banner, is the individual attention and personalisation; the
very meals, for example that were cooked for generations are
still served at your table.
Families in residence for centuries now welcome you to their
homes as guests. And each ancestral home is different, uniquely
so, reflecting its own, exceptional history, tradition and
period.
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The ambience
is perfectly reflected through sepia photographs and family memorabilia.
Even the retainers may have been in the service of the families
for generations.
While history
is always at hand, there have been changes too, so that the home
are modernised to meet the needs of Today's international traveller,
with adjoining bathrooms, running hot and cold water, modern plumbing,
even perhaps a swimming pool.
These help to
enhance the experience, making your visit to India's Heritage
hotels in memorable one.
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