Taj Expands Heritage Portfolio with Gulab Haveli Mandawa IHCL
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Taj Revives Gulab Haveli Mandawa IHCL: A Heritage Marvel Reborn
In a landmark step toward preserving India’s regal architectural legacy, the Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) has unveiled Gulab Haveli, Mandawa SeleQtions, a beautifully restored 19th-century mansion nestled in Rajasthan’s Shekhawati region. Once a forgotten masterpiece of fresco art and craftsmanship, the Haveli has been reimagined by Taj into a heritage boutique hotel that celebrates Mandawa’s artistic soul with the refined polish of modern hospitality.
A Jewel from the Past: The Story Behind Gulab Haveli
The roots of Gulab Haveli trace back nearly 150 years to the prosperous trading era of Shekhawati. Built between 1830 and 1870 by Gulab Rai Ladia, a distinguished merchant from the Ladia family, the Haveli was more than a home — it was a testament to wealth, aesthetic taste, and cultural sophistication. The Ladias traded in camel wool, spices, cotton, and opium, bringing immense prosperity to Mandawa, which became one of the richest towns in Rajasthan during that period.
Commissioned during an age when merchants showcased their affluence through architectural splendor, the Haveli exemplifies the Shekhawati style where every wall, ceiling, and doorway tells a story. Its facades are painted with intricate frescoes depicting mythology, royal processions, and even early European influences, revealing the cosmopolitan worldview of 19th-century traders. Puneet Chhatwal, MD & CEO, IHCL, said, “Gulab Haveli is a magnificent example of Rajasthan’s merchant-era architecture. Restoring it under Taj’s SeleQtions brand allows us to preserve the artistry while offering guests a deeply immersive heritage experience.”
Architectural Marvel: A Living Canvas of Art and Grandeur
Gulab Haveli is a visual symphony of Rajput and Mughal architecture, featuring grand archways, delicate jharokhas (balconies), carved wooden doors, mirror work with imported Belgian glass, and courtyards designed for natural ventilation and communal gatherings.
Its interiors preserve rare 19th-century frescoes — some executed in natural pigments mixed with lime, others highlighted with real gold leaf. The Gold Painted Room stands as one of Rajasthan’s few surviving chambers entirely embellished with gold detailing and mirror work. Every corner captures the essence of opulent living that once defined Shekhawati’s wealthy merchant class.
The Haveli’s zenana courtyard, flanked by pillared verandahs and fresco-covered walls, evokes the grace of a bygone era. The upper terraces overlook Mandawa’s skyline, while the ramped entrances, once designed for elephants and horse carriages, remain as architectural heirlooms. Indrani Dasgupta, VP – SeleQtions & Amã Stays by IHCL, commented, “Our restoration approach ensures that every fresco, jharokha, and courtyard retains its original character while offering the highest level of comfort and luxury for modern travellers.”
Mandawa: The Open-Air Art Gallery of Rajasthan
Often called the “Open-Air Art Gallery of Rajasthan,” Mandawa is famed for its ornate havelis and frescoes that chronicle centuries of history. Founded in 1756 by Thakur Nawal Singh, the town flourished as part of the caravan route connecting Delhi, Bikaner, and Sindh. Merchants like the Ladias, Poddars, and Goenkas commissioned elaborate mansions to flaunt their success and in doing so, they created one of India’s richest heritage corridors.
From Chokhani Double Haveli to Binsidhar Newatia Haveli, the town is a treasure trove of artwork and architecture. Its murals illustrate not just gods and goddesses but also colonial soldiers, gramophones, trains, and motor cars a glimpse into how Rajasthan’s artists embraced modernity through imagination. Vinayak Sharma, General Manager, Gulab Haveli Mandawa IHCL, said, “Mandawa has always been a cultural gem, and now with Taj’s involvement, the town and Gulab Haveli can truly shine on the global heritage tourism map.”
The IHCL Transformation: From Heritage to High Hospitality
IHCL’s acquisition and transformation of Gulab Haveli under its SeleQtions brand marks a new dawn for Mandawa’s tourism landscape. The restoration, executed in close collaboration with conservation architects and local artisans, preserves the Haveli’s soul while upgrading it with world-class amenities.
The property now features 17 elegantly restored rooms and suites, each with distinctive fresco work and period details. A central courtyard serves as the heart of the experience, offering open-air dining and cultural performances under starlit skies.
Resham, the all-day dining restaurant, pays homage to the ancient Silk Route that once passed through Rajasthan, blending regional flavours with contemporary finesse. Amal, the bar, offers handcrafted cocktails amid candlelight and arches that whisper history. The rooftop pool and spa invite guests to unwind while absorbing panoramic views of Mandawa’s golden hues.
IHCL’s Vision: Heritage Meets Modern Hospitality
The project aligns with IHCL’s long-term vision under its ‘Accelerate 2030’ strategy, which focuses on expanding its footprint in India’s cultural and leisure destinations. Puneet Chhatwal, MD & CEO, IHCL, added, “With Taj’s stewardship, Gulab Haveli transcends restoration; it becomes a dialogue between the past and the present, between tradition and modern travel.”
This philosophy mirrors the SeleQtions brand ethos celebrating individuality, character, and the local flavour of each destination.
Why Taj Gulab Haveli Mandawa IHCL Stands Out
With IHCL’s entry, the once-hidden gem of Mandawa gains global recognition: Luxury Redefined: Taj-level service ensures refined hospitality while preserving authenticity. Experiential Stays: Heritage walks, art restoration tours, Rajasthani cooking, and folk music evenings. Sustainable Tourism: Restoration supports local craftsmen and preserves traditional skills. Global Appeal: Inclusion in SeleQtions brings Mandawa to international heritage travel circuits.
Heritage, Hospitality, and Hope
The revival of Gulab Haveli Mandawa IHCL demonstrates how heritage conservation and luxury tourism can coexist. The Haveli’s frescoes now shimmer under Rajasthan’s desert sun, not as relics of the past but as living art.Vinayak Sharma, GM, Gulab Haveli Mandawa IHCL, concluded, “Gulab Haveli is no longer just a building; it is a living story of Rajasthan’s past, restored for present and future travellers.”
https://www.highonpersona.com/in-conversation-with-the-scion-of-udaipur-lakshyaraj-singh-mewar/
She has been there and done that. After graduating from Delhi University, she completed her diploma in Journalism from Bhartiya Vidya Bhawan, Delhi. Down the line, she completed her internship with National Herald Newspaper successfully,, and went on to Join Mainline Business daily, Business Standard. She also dabbled in image management and brand consultancy. She is a prolific writer on lifestyle entertainment, branding, lifestyle, travel, and politics.
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