GAJNER PALACE:A ROYAL REVELATION &
THE SERENE WHISPERS OF THE LAKE
With some time to spare before our aquatic escapade, we decided to explore the history of Gajner Palace, courtesy of Google’s treasure trove.
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It turned out that this royal retreat initially began as a Honeymoon story! Maharaja Gaj Singh, returning from Jaisalmer after his wedding, had a halt here. His newly wedded bride requested him to make this area a pleasure garden for her. And thus, Gajner was born, complete with a lake to nourish its lush beauty. From Gajsinghpura to Gajner, the village and palace evolved, weathering destruction and rebirth, thanks to the vision of rulers like Maharaja Sardar Singh, Dungar Singh, and Ganga Singh.
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| The intricate carvings in red stone weaved their magic everywhere. |
The lake that had parched during the devastating famine of circa 1899 was resurrected by Maharaja Ganga Singh, who deepened and widened it, ensuring its resilience. The visionary Maharaja Ganga Singh envisaged it as a hunting haven on the serene Gajner Lake. He engaged the services of Samuel Swinton Jacob, a British architect to reimagine it, and John Roberts and Company of Bombay to furnish it.
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| The serene Gajner Lake separating the palace from the wild-life sanctuary |
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| Stepping into the shimmering waters of Gajner lake from the palace was unimaginable |
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| These stuffed animals on the walls are reminders that the palace was once a Hunting Lodge |
Speaking of wildlife, the ancient trees, silent witnesses to centuries of history, provide sanctuary to a symphony of birds. Parrots, taking their morning dip in the fountain, and peacocks, dancing like royalty, added a touch of magic to the scene.
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| A newly wedded bride in all her fineries who had come to the temple to seek divine blessings |
Finally, aboard the solar-powered boat, we glided across the tranquil waters. On one side, the majestic palace stood in all its glory; on the other, a sprawling forest whispered secrets.
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| Clad in life jackets, we enjoyed boating in the calm but shimmering waters of Gajner Lake |
Satiated and content, we retreated to our rooms for a well-deserved siesta, a two-hour recharge for the grand evening ahead.
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| The Wild life sanctuary across the lake |
The majestic palace, the serene lake, and the promise of
wildlife – Gajner was weaving its enchanting spell.
(To continue)
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3 comments:
Very realistic and interesting description of the tranquil and serene environment of Gajner
Ma’am, your write up is a soulful immersion into Gajner’s legacy, indeed, reads like a love letter to Rajasthan’s royal heritage.
The story effortlessly merges past grandeur with present-day serenity. From the romantic origin of the palace – born of a newlywed queen’s wish – to the vision of Maharaja Ganga Singh who transformed a barren landscape into a lush, life-giving retreat.
The true charm, however, lies in the gentle details: parrots bathing in fountains & peacocks dancing at dawn. These vivid moments are not just told, they are felt.
The solar boat ride across the shimmering lake & a delectable Rajasthani feast that brings the narrative full circle.
This isn’t just a travel story – it’s a soulful immersion into Gajner’s legacy. And the relative photographs, with their silent eloquence, speak just as powerfully as the words. They serve as visual whispers from the past, mirroring the story’s tone and depth.
The Pictures with ur lively narrations is a virtual treat to our eyes and mind.
Vasantha Rajagopalan
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