Shekhawati havelis are vanishing fast as neglect and demolition erase an open air art gallery

Some fresco havelis are being demolished

Rajasthan’s Shekhawati, known as the world’s largest open-air art gallery, is witnessing the rapid collapse of its fresco-painted havelis. Once owned by merchant families like the Birlas and Dalmias, many structures are deteriorating through neglect and being demolished, threatening cultural heritage and tourism. Experts say immediate government funding and community-led conservation are crucial to stop the loss.