Jaipur: As part of efforts to preserve Shekhawati’s heritage and strengthen engagement with the global Rajasthani diaspora, the state govt will host a dedicated Shekhawati Heritage meet on Dec 8, ahead of the second Pravasi Rajasthani Divas on Dec 10.Speaking virtually and in person with the non-resident Rajasthanis at a Pravasi Samvad Friday, Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma outlined the govt’s plans to conserve the state’s heritage assets while positioning Shekhawati’s rich cultural legacy as a catalyst for tourism-led development.Under the state’s ongoing conservation drive, 612 heritage structures in the region have been identified for restoration, preservation, and promotion for tourism.Sharma said the govt has already announced developing a dedicated heritage tourism circuit connecting Sikar and Jhunjhunu, the two districts that form the core of the Shekhawati region.Widely recognised as an open-air art gallery, Shekhawati is renowned for its 19th-century havelis built by merchant families. Decorated with elaborate frescoes, these havelis draw many foreign tourists.Sharma said he had repeatedly appealed to members of the diaspora, particularly those who own ancestral properties in Shekhawati, to undertake their restoration.The govt wants property owners to repurpose ageing estates as heritage hotels, homestays and cultural centres, creating sustainable models for preservation.Alongside its heritage conservation efforts, the state will expand the outreach of the Rajasthan Foundation, the govt’s nodal agency for diaspora engagement. The Foundation will establish 11 new Pravasi Rajasthani chapters, taking its network from 40 to 51 chapters.The expanded network will comprise 26 international chapters across key global centres and 25 domestic chapters connecting Rajasthani communities across India.According to the chief minister, the expansion is aimed at transforming Pravasi Rajasthani Divas from an annual event into a platform for cultural engagement, business collaboration and diaspora-led investment in Rajasthan.
About The Author
