Transformation of Jaisalmer city

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Technological University

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Architecture,

Gujarat

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Transformation of Jaisalmer city

TRANSFORMATION OF JAISALMER CITY

A Research Thesis submitted to the Gujarat Technological University

By

Shreedhar Maheshwari

In partial fulfillment of the requirements for the award of degree of Bachelor of Architecture (B. Arch.)

June, 2021

L.J SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE L.JCAMPUS, SARKHEJ ROAD, AHMEDABAD

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Transformation of Jaisalmer city

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I would like to take this opportunity to thank my thesis guide prof. Sharadbala Joshi for all her support and generous insights which have helped me accomplish my thesis.

She has been a source of inspiration during my research and working under her guidance has been a great learning experience. She consistently allowed this research thesis to be my own work, but steered me in right direction whenever she felt I needed it. I would also like to extend my gratitude to various experts who gave me their time and insights on my research subject. Thanks to peoples of Jaisalmer who helped me to every possible end. Finally, I must express my very profound gratitude to my parents, friends and family for providing me with unfailing support and continuous encouragement throughout my years of study. This accomplishment would not have been possible without them.

Thank you.

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Transformation of Jaisalmer city

ABSTRACT

This thesis provide a detailed case study of research is on the transformation of Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. Jaisalmer was selected as the study area because of the richness of its architecture, its unique typology and its history and rich culture. In addition, the dwellings of Jaisalmer have undergone several transformations from both – a planning and usage perspective.

Heritage buildings and cities serve as visual records of their history and growth, which also comprise the foundation of local culture. The architectural form and cultural legacy are often overlooked and forgotten in today's society.

Jaisalmer region has been a major tourist destination for both Indian as well as foreign tourists. Further, from the historic point of view, Jaisalmer city plays an important role.

This justifies the selection of Jaisalmer for research on transformations in a historic city.

The research has been conducted on the fort area of Jaisalmer city and its surroundings, including research on some dwellings, streets and public spaces. The case studies of some dwellings has been carried out to understand the process of their transformation.

The analysis of the formation and transformation of the city has been undertaken from several perspectives.

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Contents ACKNOWLEDGEMENT ................................................................................................... V ABSTRACT .................................................................................................................... VII List of figures and tables ............................................................................................... X Chapter 1: Introduction ............................................................................................ 1 1.1

Aim .................................................................................................................. 3

1.2

Objectives ....................................................................................................... 4

1.3

Scope of study ................................................................................................ 4

1.4

Limitations ...................................................................................................... 4

1.5

Research design .............................................................................................. 5

1.5.1

Methodology............................................................................................... 5

Chapter 2: Transformation of historic houses ........................................................... 7 2.1

Conservation of Cultural Heritage ..................................................................... 8

2.2

Modern Concern about Preserving Built Heritage........................................... 10

2.3

Evolution .......................................................................................................... 13

Chapter 3: Jaisalmer: the golden city ....................................................................... 15 3.1 Jaisalmer as a city .................................................................................................. 16 3.2 History ................................................................................................................... 17 3.3 Evolution of city .................................................................................................... 20 3.4 Flora and fauna ..................................................................................................... 23 Chapter 4: Present day scenario .............................................................................. 24 4.1 City form ................................................................................................................ 25 4.2 Streets ................................................................................................................... 27 4.3 Cluster and public space ....................................................................................... 29 4.4 Dwelling units ........................................................................................................ 30 4.5 Demography .......................................................................................................... 34 4.6 Geography and climate ......................................................................................... 35 4.7 Economy and land use .......................................................................................... 39 4.7.1 Economy ......................................................................................................... 39 ................................................................................................................................. 39 ................................................................................................................................. 39 4.7.2 Land use .......................................................................................................... 39 B.Arch.

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Transformation of Jaisalmer city 4.8 Tourist foot fall ...................................................................................................... 42 4.9 Public administration ............................................................................................. 43 4.9.1 Urban services ................................................................................................. 43 Chapter 5: Case study of dwellings .......................................................................... 47 5.1 Patwon ki haveli ..................................................................................................... 48 .2

Baa-ri haveli .......................................................................................................... 55

.3

Nathmal ki haveli .................................................................................................. 59

5.4 Suraj haveli............................................................................................................. 64 5.5 Praveenji House .................................................................................................... 72 5.6

Shyamnath ki Haveli ......................................................................................... 75

5.7

Gokulji ki Haveli ................................................................................................ 80

5.8

Praveen Singhji House ...................................................................................... 84

Chapter 6: Analysis ................................................................................................. 88 6.1 Introduction ........................................................................................................... 89 6.2

Transformation ................................................................................................. 89

6.2.1

Transformation in houses.......................................................................... 90

6.2.2

Examples of transformation ...................................................................... 92

6.3

Case study ......................................................................................................... 96

6.4

Services ...........................................................................................................102

6.5

Common factors ............................................................................................. 104

Chapter 7: Conclusion ........................................................................................... 106 References ............................................................................................................ 108

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List of figures and tables Figure 1 Arial view of Golden city from the palace balcony ........................................... 2 Figure 2 Jaisalmer tourist map .......................................................................................... 3 Figure 3 Jaisalmer city view ............................................................................................. 6 Figure 4 View of city from fort ........................................................................................ 8 Figure 5 Process of transformation ................................................................................. 10 Figure 6 Evolution of city ............................................................................................... 13 Figure 7 Jaisalmer location map ..................................................................................... 16 Figure 8 Jaisalmer tourist map ........................................................................................ 16 Figure 9 Important places ............................................................................................... 17 Figure 10 Important trades routes ................................................................................... 19 Figure 11 Fort area evolution plan .................................................................................. 20 Figure 12 Development plan........................................................................................... 21 Figure 13 Satellite image of Jaisalmer city 2021 ............................................................ 22 Figure 14 Jaisalmer city view ......................................................................................... 25 Figure 15 city plan .......................................................................................................... 26 Figure 16 Fort area street plan ........................................................................................ 27 Figure 17 Street of Jaisalmer .......................................................................................... 27 Figure 18 Plan and elevation of street ............................................................................ 28 Figure 19 City planning pattern ...................................................................................... 28 Figure 20 Royal square ................................................................................................... 30 Figure 21 Small house plan ............................................................................................ 32 Figure 22 Medium size house ......................................................................................... 32 Figure 23 Haveli plan and section .................................................................................. 34 Figure 24 Sun path diagram ............................................................................................ 35 Figure 25 Map of India showing climatic zones............................................................. 36 Figure 26 Jaisalmer development plan ........................................................................... 43 Figure 27: Jaisalmer Street Planning ............................................................................. 44 Figure 28 Street section .................................................................................................. 44 Figure 29 Street direction ............................................................................................... 45 Figure 30 street section and elevation of Jaisalmer old city ........................................... 45 Figure 31 Street near Patawon ki haveli ......................................................................... 46

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Transformation of Jaisalmer city Figure 32 Courtyard ........................................................................................................ 48 Figure 33 Exterior facade ................................................................................................ 49 Figure 34 sections ............................................................................................................ 50 Figure 35 Plan ................................................................................................................. 50 Figure 36 Main entrance of haveli .................................................................................. 52 Figure 37 Jharokhas......................................................................................................... 52 Figure 38 Exterior facade of haveli ................................................................................. 53 Figure 39 Interior wall decoration ................................................................................... 54 Figure 40 Patwon ki haveli .............................................................................................. 54 Figure 41 Mahal .............................................................................................................. 55 Figure 42 Baa-ri haveli front facade................................................................................ 56 Figure 43 Plan and section of Baa-ri haveli .................................................................... 57 Figure 44 Baithak ............................................................................................................ 58 Figure 45 Exterior of Nathmal ki Haveli ......................................................................... 59 Figure 46 Arched Window .............................................................................................. 59 Figure 47 Carving on wall ............................................................................................... 60 Figure 48 Courtyard ........................................................................................................ 60 Figure 49 Air duct ........................................................................................................... 60 Figure 50 Floor plan ........................................................................................................ 61 Figure 51 Section............................................................................................................. 61 Figure 52 Exterior facade ................................................................................................ 62 Figure 53 Entrance .......................................................................................................... 64 Figure 54 Terrace window .............................................................................................. 65 Figure 55 Courtyard ........................................................................................................ 65 Figure 56 Carving ............................................................................................................ 66 Figure 57 window ............................................................................................................ 66 Figure 58 Courtyard ........................................................................................................ 67 Figure 59 courtyard ......................................................................................................... 68 Figure 60 Courtyard ........................................................................................................ 68 Figure 61 Plan of Suraj Haveli ........................................................................................ 70 Figure 62 Section of Suraj haveli .................................................................................... 71 Figure 63 Roof plan ......................................................................................................... 71 Figure 64 Praveenji House - Front Facade ...................................................................... 72 Figure 65 Shop ................................................................................................................ 73 XI

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Figure 66 Plan ................................................................................................................. 74 Figure 67 Entrance .......................................................................................................... 75 Figure 68 View of city from the Shyamnath ki Haveli................................................... 75 Figure 69 Front Facade ................................................................................................... 76 Figure 70 Ground floor plan ........................................................................................... 78 Figure 71 Second floor plan............................................................................................ 79 Figure 72 First floor plan ................................................................................................ 79 Figure 73 Courtyard ........................................................................................................ 79 Figure 74 Mahal View .................................................................................................... 80 Figure 75 Gokul Haveli - view from street ..................................................................... 81 Figure 76 Plan of Gokulji haveli..................................................................................... 83 Figure 77 transformed plan ............................................................................................. 83 Figure 78 Original plan ................................................................................................... 83 Figure 79 Entrance .......................................................................................................... 84 Figure 80 Shop ................................................................................................................ 84 Figure 81 Plan of Praveen Singh house .......................................................................... 85 Figure 82 Street view ...................................................................................................... 90 Figure 83 Street view ...................................................................................................... 90 Figure 84 Fort area transformation plan ......................................................................... 91 Figure 85 Royal Square Entrance ................................................................................... 93 Figure 86 Vendors selling shawl and saree at Royal Square .......................................... 93 Figure 87 Royal square drawings ................................................................................... 94 Figure 88 Royal square activities.................................................................................... 95 Figure 89 Light cables hanging in street ....................................................................... 103 Figure 90 Light poles placed without proper planning ................................................. 103

Table 1 Tourism and heritage approach affecting transformation .................................. 12 Table 2 Hierarchy of ruling powers ................................................................................ 18 Table 3 Population graph ................................................................................................ 35 Table 4 Religion followed in Jaisalmer .......................................................................... 36 Table 5 Climate parameters and analysis ....................................................................... 37 Table 6 Temperature, rainy days and precipitation graph .............................................. 38 Table 7 Business distribution.......................................................................................... 39 Table 8 Land area distribution ........................................................................................ 39 B.Arch.

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Transformation of Jaisalmer city Table 9 Number of hotels and rooms .............................................................................. 41 Table 10 Tourist foot fall................................................................................................. 42 Table 11 Tourist data mapping percentage ..................................................................... 42 Table 12 Analysis chart ................................................................................................... 51 Table 13 Mapping of climatic element v/s design element ............................................. 58 Table 14 Mapping of climatic element v/s design element of Nathmal ki Haveli .......... 63 Table 15 Analysis of Suraj haveli ................................................................................... 69 Table 16 Analysis of Praveenji House ............................................................................ 73 Table 17 Analysis of Shyamnath ki Haveli ..................................................................... 77 Table 18 Analysis of Gokul Haveli ................................................................................. 82 Table 19 Analysis according to data collected .............................................................. 102 Table 20 Commutative analysis .................................................................................... 104

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Transformation of Jaisalmer city

Chapter 1: Introduction

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Jaisalmer is a medieval town situated in the middle of the Thar Desert in the state of Rajasthan, India. Jaisalmer is dominated by the only living fort in Rajasthan, that is, the Jaisalmer Fort - a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is located on the 80m high Trikuta (three ridges) Hill. Jaisalmer is popularly called the "Golden City" because all the buildings in and around the Fort, including small and large houses, temples, palaces and mausoleums are made of yellow sandstone - the same color as the earth.

Besides the fort itself, there are various places of architectural interest within the fort walls and grounds. These include five palaces, namely Sarvottam Vilas, Akhai Vilas, Gaj Mahal, Rang Mahal and Moti Mahal, as well as various temples and numerous havelis of merchants. The havelis have ornate sandstone carvings, decorated windows, archways, doors and balconies. Some of these havelis have been converted to museums but many are still lived in by the families that built them. The attractions within Jaisalmer Fort and the easy access to the sand dunes of the Thar Desert make Jaisalmer a favored tourist destination.

Figure 1 Arial view of Golden city from the palace balcony

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Transformation of Jaisalmer city

Consequently, the town is subject to the tourists’ demands of comfort and exotic experiences. Hence over the years, numerous changes have been introduced to the old residential buildings of the town as well as in terms of urban transportation, commerce, accommodation and utilities. This makes Jaisalmer an attractive city for understanding how the current requirements of the tourists are being met through transformation of the architectural heritage.

1.1 Aim The aim of this research is to understand the transformation processes on the architecture of dwelling units within the Jaisalmer Fort area.

Figure 2 Jaisalmer tourist map Source - https://hrhhotels.com/hotels/gorbandh_palace/hotelfactsheet.php

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1.2

Objectives

The objectives of the research are: Understand the morphological growth pattern.

1. Investigate the existing situations.

2. Analyze the problems.

3. Identify the urban components.

4. Study the development pattern and policies 5. Growth pattern with respect to time period and population.

Identify the transformation of architectural characteristics of the dwelling units. 

Architectural typology



Development pattern



Planning philosophy



Climatic study



Physical conditions and mindsets behind the planning pattern



Effect of climate on city and house planning

Analyze the growth and planning patterns of the city.

1.3 Scope of study 

Understand the transformation in architecture of dwelling units.



Understand the problems faced in the city.



Understand the planning pattern of dwelling units.

The research will comprise a review of literature as well as field observations.

1.4 Limitations o The study is limited to the fort area of Jaisalmer and transformation of the architectural characteristics and uses of dwelling units.

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Transformation of Jaisalmer city o The study does not deal with the urban design issues and design guidelines for individual buildings.

1.5

Research design

The objective of the research is to investigate the transformations that have been made in the havelis of Jaisalmer in response to the demands of tourist accommodation and services. This will involve secondary research as well as observations in the field.

The aim is to understand and explain the physical transformations that have been made in historical residential buildings of Jaisalmer, which is a UNESCO world heritage site.

1.5.1 Methodology •

Literature study to understand the concept of transformation, basic principles and approaches to transformation of historic cities.

•

Study the historical background and context of Jaisalmer city.

•

Field study of multiple havelis to collect in-depth information through interviews with officials, experts etc. regarding the transformations and through study of spatial changes and service provisions within the house.

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Transformation of Jaisalmer city

Figure 3 Jaisalmer city view

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Transformation of Jaisalmer city

Chapter 2: Transformation of historic houses

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Transformation, defined as marked change in form, nature, appearance or character of a building, in such a way that it meets the changed requirements of the owners.

Transformation includes the altering of the functional and physical characteristics of a building or its parts to meet changing needs and requirements. At the building level, transformation can be both - technical and spatial. The spatial transformation could be due to changes in function or changes in taste.m

Figure 4 View of city from fort

2.1 Conservation of Cultural Heritage For economic benefits Cultural heritage asset conservation, especially in historic city centers, is likely to yield substantial non-market benefits. These advantages develop as public goods that

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Transformation of Jaisalmer city companies, residents, and tourists may enjoy in a variety of ways, both within the cultural heritage site and in the surrounding region.

Heritage sites have become increasingly commercialized, particularly as tourism has expanded. Commercialization has opened up opportunities for entrepreneurship and revenue generation, as well as controversy about the process's economic and noneconomic effects on heritage sites and the people who live and work near them.

Five big measurable of heritage conservation's economic impacts have been reported in studies over the last decade: 1) Job creation and family income 2) Downtown revitalization 3) Heritage tourism 4) Real estate values 5) Small business incubation

For personal use Conservation of cultural heritage has worth thought to be too obnoxious and demeaning to the historic resources essential significance to warrant serious consideration. Still now, some heritage restoration purists regard economic calculation and support for architectural preservation as derogatory and disrespectful to the constructed patrimony's spiritual, immeasurable virtues and significance.

Qualities contribute to heritage conservation are-

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

Cultural



Aesthetic



Educational



Environmental



Social



Historical

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Figure 5 Process of transformation

2.2 Modern Concern about Preserving Built Heritage

The notion of heritage as artefacts and structures from the past, as well as regulations connected to their preservation, have grown in parallel with modernity, making this a vital requirement and obligation of modern society. The purpose of this protection has been identified as humanity's cultural legacy since the seventeenth century, and this has increasingly expanded to cover not just old landmarks and historical works of art, but also complete ideas for a range of new values developed in recent decades.

For instance, in its medium term programme of 1989, UNESCO defined the full scope of such heritage (25 C/4, 1989:57) in the following: “The cultural heritage may be defined as entire corpus of material signs - either artistic or symbolic - handed on by the past to each culture and therefore to the whole of humankind.

As a constituent past of the affirmation and enrichment of cultural identities as a legacy belonging to all humankind, the cultural heritage gives each particular place its recognizable features and is the storehouse of human experience. The presentation and the preservation of the cultural heritage are therefore a cornerstone of any cultural policy.”

Weather, the ageing process, and consumption through usage are all factors that contribute to the destruction of constructed heritage. Buildings can also be altered as a

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Transformation of Jaisalmer city result of changes in function, taste, or fashion. Apart from it, many historic structures and pieces of art are in risk of being damaged as a result of natural disasters. Aside from that, numerous historical structures are under jeopardy as a result of violent conflicts, purposeful destruction, and demolition by humans.

One of the primary problems and duties of modern civilization is the preservation, restoration, and conservation of heritage, as well as regulations connected to their protection. These concepts and policies have arisen as a result of a process. The current conservation movement has been highlighted.

2.2.1 Impact of Technology

Technology-driven civilizations and industrial progress have had a significant influence on traditional communities, leading to the emergence of the concept of tradition and cultural preservation. Modern architectural practice has resulted in the loss of individuality in structures, since the rise of industrial society showed a total rejection of past references.

2.2.2 Saving Cultural Identity

Technology was crucial in the revitalization of the urban environment, serving as a medium for the advancement of new ideas and interactive communication. The enormous population growth in major cities, on the other hand, has had the opposite impact.

Anthony M. Tang, the former New York City Landmarks Preservation Commissioner, stated the following in an interview published in Heritage magazine, “We have become an urban civilization. In the process we are becoming the civilization of the disappearing cultural roots as the rapid expansion of the modern metropolis renders widespread devastation of architectural patrimony. What does it mean when we lose one handsome familiar building?

When an express way cutting through the city centre 11

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consumes a lovely 19th century district? It all adds up. The damage occurs. International experts currently estimated about 50 percent of the significant historic structures that existed in the year 1900 have been destroyed. A recent Canadian study documents the ruin of more than 20 percent of the nation’s heritage buildings in the last three decades alone. By the year 2100 will 60, 70, 80 percent of the global architectural legacy is erased? Are we closing the door to our past?”

Table 1 Tourism and heritage approach affecting transformation Source - https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Flow-chart-of-Gentrification-Tourism-and-Heritage-ValueApproach_fig1_315918648

2.2.3 Learning from the past

Heritage and historical structures serve as physical reminders of former civilizations and towns, and hence serve as resources for learning about the past.

Given that ideas, values, actions, and even emotions are cultural products, it stands to reason that created objects are cultural artefacts as well. As a result, constructed heritage is a record of previous culture, advancements, and communities. These are the physical resources that people utilize to learn about architectural styles, structural systems,

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Transformation of Jaisalmer city building processes, material selection, space organization, scale proportion, and other elements of architecture.

2.3 Evolution With more than half of the rural human population currently wants to live in cities and the fast spread of urban settings across the world, urbanisation is becoming a more dominating type of disruption to Earth's ecosystems. The structure and function of ecosystems are altered, and biodiversity is degraded, as a result of urbanisation. This is leading to the extension and evolution of the city and transformation to the old part of city for meeting the needs of the city and to accommodate the migrated population in the city.

Figure 6 Evolution of city

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Transformation of Jaisalmer city

Chapter 3: Jaisalmer: the golden city

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3.1 Jaisalmer as a city Jaisalmer is named after Rawal Jaisal, a Bhati ruler who founded the city in 1156 AD. Jaisalmer means the Hill Fort of Jaisal. Jaisalmer is sometimes called the "Golden City of India" because the yellow sandstone used throughout the architecture of both the fort and the town below, gives both a golden-yellow light. It is located 575 kilometers (357 miles) west of the state capital Jaipur

Figure 7 Jaisalmer location map

and 790 kilometers (491 miles) west to

Sourcehttps://www.ocregister.com/2008/01/06/sand

of Delhi.

-and-stone-indias-jaisalmer-fortress/

The Fort is reinforced by a 30 feet high crenelated sandstone wall. The fort and has its outer wall of palaces, houses and temples

of

soft

yellow

sandstone. It has narrow winding lanes and four huge gateways, the last one leading to main chowk dominated by the old palace of the Maharwal.

Figure 8 Jaisalmer tourist map Sourcehttps://www.lonelyplanet.com/india/rajasthan/jaisalmer#m aps

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Transformation of Jaisalmer city

Figure 9 Important places

3.2 History The early history of Jaisalmer is not well documented. It is said that in the 9th century, Deoraj a famous prince of Bhati clan descents from Lord Krishna captured Lodwara from Lodwari Rajputs of Chalukya clan and made Lodwara his capital. The city stood on an ancient trade route through the Thar Desert, which also made it vulnerable from various attacks. Mohammad of Ghazni laid to seize the city in 1025 C.E. it was later ransacked

by Mohammad Ghori in 1178 C.E., leading to abandonment of Lodwara and establishment of new fortified capital of Jaisalmer in 1156 C.E. Jaisalmer was situated 16 km away on the Trikuta hill, where the present fortress stands today. The city of Jaisalmer was established by King Maharwal Jaisal.

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Table 2 Hierarchy of ruling powers Rulers

Dynasty

Rawal Dusaj Rawal Jaisal

Rawal Vijayraj

1156 AD

1160AD

Shalivahana

Rawal Kailan

Chachick deva

1200 AD

1200-1218 AD

1219-1251 AD

Jait Singh

Karan Singh

Rajputana Rulers 1200-1500 AD

1276 AD Rawal Duda 1319-1331 AD Jait Singh II

Rawal Lunkaran

1505-1526 AD

1528-1550 AD

Rawal Harraj

Bhim Singh

1556-1578 AD

1578-1624 AD

Kalyan Das

Rawal Manohar

Maharwal Amar

1624-1634 AD

Das

Singh

Mughal period

1634-1648 AD

1661-1702 AD

1500-1800 AD

Maharwal

Budh Singh

Akshay Singh

1798-1722 AD

1722-1762 AD Mulraj Singh II 1762-1819 AD

British Raj 1800-1900 AD

Gaj Singh

Ranjit Singh

1820-1846 AD

1846-1864 AD

Some of the interested lyrics also state that lord Krishna predicted to Arjun that the Yadav dynasty successor will set up his kingdom on the top of Trikuta hill. This got true when in 116 C.E. Maharwal Jaisal left Lodwara and made Sonar Fort.

The period between 12th to 14th century the city of Jaisalmer remains disturbed and in war zone which limits the development. After the end of 14th century new residents started developing outside the fortified wall and watch towers. Many external forces B.Arch.

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Transformation of Jaisalmer city during this period tried to capture Jaisalmer as it lies between the silk route and the major center for trade in the nearby region. Jaisalmer join the Saurashtra region to the Afghan region now known as Afghanistan.

Jaisalmer was also the center for asafoetida and opium (afeem) which were exported throughout the world and the medicines made here were also very famous and exported to the world.

As the opium and asafetida trade increases with Afghanistan and China, the wealth of the Jaisalmer starts increasing as it becomes one of the leading Rajput states controlling the whole southern Thar Desert, the wealth and expansion of the Jaisalmer Empire made it a center for merchants and visitors.

Figure 10 Important trades routes Source- https://ontrip.in/the-old-silk-route/

The narrow streets web lay inside to reach Sonar Fort. The carving and paintings done on the buildings are must to see. Many Hindu and Jain temples are made inside it. Like Lakshminarayanji temple is also important for its carved gold and silver doors. In Jain temples, ancient Chintamani Parshavnathji temple is the oldest which was made by the Jain curbs in 1402 C.E. Sambhavnathji temple was made in 1437 C.E. and Rishabdevji temple made in year 1480 C.E. these all temples are famous for their craft and excellent

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carvings. In Jain temples underneath, there is huge storage of knowledge which has a huge numbers of ancient books and texts in it.

3.3 Evolution of city The development of the Jaisalmer Fort can be distinguished in terms of the reigns of rulers and then after Independence.

12th -13th century In 1156 AD, Rawal Jaisal established Jaisalmer as the capital of Bhati clan. He shifted his capital from Lodwara to Jaisalmer since its location on the Trikuta hill (76 m) ensured better protection than Lodwara. He also constructed the Ganesh pol. Then Rawal Jait Singh started the construction of inner fortification wall of the fort.

13th – 14th century In 1299 the fort was captured by Allaudin Khilji and was seized for 18 years. In 1321-1406AD King Duda again took power and started

construction

outer

fortification.

of As

artillery and ammunition evolved

the

inner

fortification wall were used for

placement

of

ammunition. The outer wall was constructed on the slope of the fort specially to protect the fort.

14th -17th century Construction of outer fort

Figure 11 Fort area evolution plan

wall completed.

Source – Art and Architecture of Jaisalmer, Sureshwara

Two ornamental gateway

Nand. 2001

Suraj pol and Hawa pol

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Transformation of Jaisalmer city constructed by Maharwal Bhim Singh 

Ganesh pole- Constructed in 12th century by Maharwal Shalivahana



Suraj pol- Constructed in 16th century by Maharwal Bhim. It is made of rubble stone masonry in lime mortar



Hawa pol- Constructed in 16th century by Maharwal Bhim



Akshay pol- Main entrance of fort constructed in mid-17th century by Maharwal Akshay Singh

After Independence

After

independence

the

development and expanding of city takes a boost. Many central government, state government and

other

government

organization,

educational

facilities and defense facilities established

in

the

city.

Organizations like-



INTACH

(Indian

National

Trust for Art and cultural Heritage), 

ASI (Archaeological Survey of

Figure 12 Development plan

India),Ministry of Culture And many other organizations are working

for

the

growth

of

Jaisalmer and nearby regions.

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Figure 13 Satellite image of Jaisalmer city 2021 Source- https://www.google.com/intl/en_in/earth/

Figure 9 Evolution of Jaisalmer

The city has evolved over the years in different phases and different time period as shown in above plan. The city starts evolving from the fort area later extended to its northern region and later on keeps expanding as per requirement of city.

Due to its geographical location Jaisalmer has been a center of security forces due to only big city in the region and near to line of control. During the British rule, the region flourished a lot and development was at the peak at that time period.

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Transformation of Jaisalmer city

3.4 Flora and fauna Main minerals found in Jaisalmer are yellow stone, multani mitti, gypsum, limestone, geru, phosphorus, oil and natural gases. Due to this bad terrain there is almost no forest area in the district. Mostly babool (acacia), kumat (gum arabica), rimariya, jal, khejdi, ber etc. trees are commonly found. In the category of shrubs aakada, fog, buadi, tushar etc. are found. And in the category of grass seven, lap, dhaman, ganhit are mainly found in this area.

The farming in this area is totally depended on the rain. Main crops of the district are bajra, juvar, mung-moth, til, guvar, etc. due to sufficient water of Indira Gandhi Canal ruby crops are also grown nowadays. In the field of cattle farming mostly cows, goats, sheep’s, camels are kept. Camels are also known as the ship of the desert.

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Chapter 4: Present day scenario

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Transformation of Jaisalmer city

Jaisalmer has developed into one of the most interesting cities in western India. It is developed entirely of stone on the top of hillock and one can feel that the city is a piece of sculpture carved out of stone. It is designed compactly with narrow streets and high rise building up to 7 story’s - giving the city a vertical effect.

4.1 City form

Figure 14 Jaisalmer city view

The fort area of Jaisalmer in the shape of irregular polygon with a double line of fortification in it. It is a city within the city. It is protected with a stronger wall and is set on the top of the hill. The city has a triangular shape due to the shape of the Trikuta hills on which it is build. There is only one entry point to the fort and city leading to Royal Square through the series of the check points in the terms of gates (poles) are made.

The royal square is the arrival point for the traders and visitors of the city. The city is compactly built with many tall buildings up to seven story high gives city a fairly dense and vertical effect.

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Source- Municipal Corporation, Jaisalmer

Figure 15 city plan

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Transformation of Jaisalmer city

4.2 Streets Jaisalmer has a very compact and dense network of short streets which make them the interesting character of the city. The narrow lanes and tall buildings on the both side rarely more than four meters wide which almost remain shaded and cool.

There is a vast difference in the street patterns of the upper and lower city through the general ambience is similar. As in the upper city Figure 16 Fort area street plan

the streets are formed in radial pattern

Source- Municipal Corporation, Jaisalmer

whereas the lower city has the grid iron pattern of streets.

Figure 17 Street of Jaisalmer

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Figure 18 Plan and elevation of street Source- Understanding the adaptive climate responsive techniques in the settlement of Rajasthan, Ankita Arora

The city structuring manifests itself into two strong ways

The royal mansion on the top of the hill with the strong fortification.



The dispersal of community based on the caste grouped making distinct residential

zones

of

different

communities.

Figure 19 City planning pattern

The market squares are structured in the lower city and the royal square with temples holds the upper city together. The streets here act as the linkages, activity and interaction spaces. There is a very strong sense of harmony in the whole town.

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Transformation of Jaisalmer city

4.3 Cluster and public space The cluster space is quite frequently found in the fort area. It is either connected from the streets from two more sides or it is made by widening street at a particular point.

The public spaces in the city can be classified according to their types

City center- the royal square located at the fort area



Market spaces- like Gandhi chowk and Gopal chowk



Gathering space- mandir chowk

The royal square The royal square is a very well-conceived space forming in the core of the fort area as well as royal cluster. On reaching the entrance to the square through a winding and wellguarded path one sees very few building.

Visitors and the traders met the king and the community in the square. The square acts as the major linking element and nucleus in the upper city which holds the city together. The cluster space is particularly found in the upper city. It is either a space which connects streets on two or four sides on it or is made by widening a street at a particular point. In any case the space serves a group of houses for their immediate streets at a particular point. For example the mandir chowk in the Vyas pada where the holi pyre is lighted on the festival of Holi.

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Figure 20 Royal square

Source- https://www.webpages.uidaho.edu/arch499/Jaisalmer/jaisalmermain.htm

4.4 Dwelling units The houses in the city are based on the principal of “privacy” with help of specific elements and expression in the house. The common features that can be observed in every house are: B.Arch.

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Transformation of Jaisalmer city

•

The ground floor has no openings towards the streets except the entrance door only which is approached by some step from the house plinth.

•

A small semi-covered space called “otla” is made in front of majority of houses.

•

As we go above the ground floor the no of openings increase in the house towards the street.

•

Courtyard in the house is the main source of natural light and ventilation.

There are three type of houses in Jaisalmer1. Small houseThere are various types of small houses found in the city of Jaisalmer but they have some common features like – i.

Courtyards a t the center of the house

ii.

Private rooms at the back portion of the city.

iii.

Kitchen near the courtyard.

iv.

No opening toward the streets on the ground floor.

v.

These are made by undressed yellow sandstone with mud mortar and mud plaster at the interior.

vi.

Mostly these are of single story.

vii.

These are the common feature which we can find in almost every house of Jaisalmer city.

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Figure 21 Small house plan

2. Medium houseMedium size house belong to the upper community people mostly like Brahmans, Kshatriya and Baniya community. There are also various typology that differs it in some case but

mostly

these

typology

has

following feature. 

These are two story building



It has a big court in the center of the house.



The front portion has a projected balcony,

bay

windows

and

jharokhas projected on the streets. 

The house has same planning

Figure 22 Medium size house

principle as the small house public spaces facing the street and the private at the end of the house. 

The courtyard is the main source of light and ventilation in the house.

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Transformation of Jaisalmer city

3. HaveliThis typical courtyard home, known as a Haveli, is a large family residence for workers and the general public, whose scale and aesthetics were determined by the family's standing. It's light and bright, and it's designed around one or two courtyards. The number of openings on the exterior face of buildings is limited to keep out the harsh sun and hot winds, as well as to improve privacy. i.

Aspects of society: The chowk, or courtyard, acted as the focal point for a variety of ceremonies and rituals. To bring prosperity to the home, the sacred tulsi plant was put here and worshipped daily.

ii. Security and privacy: The chowk segregated men and women's areas at times and provided them with privacy. iii. Environment: By incorporating open space into the building design in order to adapt to the local climate, air movement induced by temperature differences aids in the building's natural ventilation. iv. Various events at various times: The court was often used by women during the day to do their work and socialize with other women in a private open room. The merchant class's mansions frequently had many courtyards. v. Space articulation: In Jaisalmer the courtyard is envisioned as a dancing hall.

Similarly, a courtyard in a haveli serves many purposes and is usually used for weddings and festive occasions. vi. Yellow sandstone, wood, sand and cow dung vii. Upper floors were reached through narrow stairwells. viii. The facades were embellished with a cusped arch, foliated columns, and vegetal motifs. Havelis were constructed in mediaeval times to meet the needs of a patriarchal society. As a result of the introvert character of the plan, there are no exterior windows except on the front façade. ix. Due to introvert social circumstances, one courtyard was occupied by male members and outsiders, while the other was reserved solely for females. x. Plaster, are some of the most common materials used. Various local cultures and customs influence the decorative aspects.

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Figure 23 Haveli plan and section

4.5 Demography Jaisalmer is a Tier II city1 with a population of 65,471 of which 36,432 are males while 29,039 are females as per Census India 2011. The city is divided into 30 wards. In Jaisalmer Municipality, Female Sex Ratio is of 797 against the state average of 928, while literacy rate at 78.46% is higher than the State average of 66.11%. The male literacy rate is around 87.10% while the female literacy rate is 67.44%. Jaisalmer Municipality has total administration over 12,809 houses to which it supplies basic amenities like water and sewerage. It is also authorized to build roads within Municipality limits and impose taxes on properties coming under its jurisdiction. Majority religion in Jaisalmer is Hinduism followed by Muslim population as per Census India 2011.

1

Indian cities are classified as Tier I cities (with 1,00,000 and above population), Tier II cities (50,000 to 99,999 population), and Tier 3 cities (20,000 to 49,999) based on the population density.

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Transformation of Jaisalmer city

Population 90000 80000 70000 60000 50000 40000 30000 20000 10000 0 1901 1911 1921 1931 1941 1951 1961 1971 1981 1991 2001 2011

Table 3 Population graph

As per the Census 2011, the eight slums in Jaisalmer Municipality had 3190 households comprising 14,170 persons.2

4.6 Geography and climate Jaisalmer District is the largest district of Rajasthan and one of the largest in the country.

It is located between 26° 4’ – 28° 23' North parallel and 69° 20'-72° 42' east meridians.

The district is 270 Km East to West and 186 Km North to South. It is bound on the north

by Bikaner, on the south by Barmer and Jodhpur, and on the east by Jodhpur and Bikaner Districts.

471 Kms of the

Jaisalmer District border on the west and

south-west

is

the

India’s

international border. Jaisalmer District has a very dry climate with very hot summers with maximum temperature reaching up to 49.2 degree Celsius, extremely cold winters with the minimum temperature Figure in the 24 range 1 degree Sunof path diagramCelsius.

Source- http://sun-direction.com/city/31250,jaisalmer/

2

Census of India, 2011. Part A. District Census Handbook – Jaisalmer.. Accessed from:

https://censusindia.gov.in/2011census/dchb/DCHB_A/08/0816_PART_A_DCHB_JAISALMER.pdf

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The variation in temperature from morning to noon to midnight is wide. The average rainfall is only 16.4 cms as against the state average of 57.51 cms. During summers, strong, dusty and hot air - known as ‘Loo’, blow in the afternoon, and very often, continue into the night. It is especially strong in the months of May and June. Wind direction in summers are south-east ether in winters are north-east or south-west.

Not Stated 0.07% 0.46% 0.01% 0.29%

Town Population Hindu Muslim Christian Sikh Buddhist Jain Others Jaisalmer

65,471

89.93% 8.20%

0.54% 0.50%

Table 4 Religion followed in Jaisalmer

Figure 25 Map of India showing climatic zones Source- Contemporary Rajasthan, 2009, by R. l. Bhalla

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Transformation of Jaisalmer city

Climatic parameters

Situation in hot and dry climate of Jaisalmer

Generic corresponding strategy 

Preserve vegetation and conserve water



Shaded facade and openings



Solar energy generation

Summer midday: 40⁰ 45⁰ C



Prevent solar access in summer but allow in winters

Summer night: 20⁰ 30⁰ C



Insulate building to prevent conduction of heat

Winter midday: 5⁰ 25⁰ C



Passive measures to reduce heat gain



Promote heat loss through ventilation and water bodies

Typical landscape and vegetation

Sandy and rocky ground with little vegetation

Solar radiation

Intense (65-70 kwh/m)

Mean temperature

Low water level

Winter night: 0⁰ -10⁰ C Humidity

Very low (average 31%) Can use evaporate cooling method

Annual rainfall

Low (average 220 mm)

Winds

Dust laden winds often developing into sandstorm

Water conservation is necessary

Table 5 Climate parameters and analysis Source- https://mausam.imd.gov.in/

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Table 6 Temperature, rainy days and precipitation graph Source- https://weather-and-climate.com/average-monthly-Rainfall-Temperature-Sunshine,jaisalmer,India

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Transformation of Jaisalmer city

4.7 Economy and land use 4.7.1 Economy 1991

2001

2011

14000 12000 10000 8000 6000 4000 2000 0

Table 7 Business distribution

Source- Municipal cooperation, Jaisalmer There are very few opportunities for business in Jaisalmer. Tourism related occupations are the most common, followed by stone carving, khadi fabric/ clothes and handicrafts, including leather bags. The limestone region of the district comprises high quality and cement grade limestone. In addition, a range of minerals are available in the area.

4.7.2 Land use Total area of municipality of Jaisalmer is 12627 hectare. And as per the survey conducted on 2011 the urban land in the city is about 1999.50 hectare where 1395 hectare came in development land, and rest of it is for farming, government reserve, mountain, roads, water source and barren land.

1600 1400 1200 1000 800 600 400 200 0

area

Table 8 Land area distribution

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Commercial Jaisalmer is an important occupational and commercial center. In occupation here lies mostly in hotels, restaurants and tiny shops. Here occupational activities are mainly located at Sadar Bazaar, Bhatia Bazaar, Amar Sagar Pol to Jindani Chowk and Gopi Chowk. In the fort area narrow streets there are small shops located at the both side of it.

Jaisalmer municipality has connected 130 shops at different locations for encouragement of the business. The state has four warehouses in Jaisalmer with the capacity of about 8550 metric tons. For the wholesale market, the government has also build a proper grain market.

Jaisalmer has 69 hectare land which is around 4.95% of its total land reserved for commercials. Main shops here are as follow

Grains



Grocery



Medical



Clothes



Hosiery



Leather



Imitation jewelry



Sweets



Restaurants



Furniture

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Transformation of Jaisalmer city

Table 9 Number of hotels and rooms

Number of hotels and rooms 100 80 60 40 20 0

2500 2000 1500 1000 500 0

Whereas embroidery, unni fold, carpets, khadi clothes, leather, art carvings, wooden boxes, emporiums are very famous among tourists.

Due to a major tourist destination the hotel occupation is also very successful and hence hotels of various class exist in the city.

Money generating Around 62 hectare of land, which is about 4.44% of the total Jaisalmer city land, is reserved for recreation. The activities for which it is reserved are: •

41

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•

playground and stadiums

•

public gathering space

•

camping and tourist spot, and

•

Art and culture center etc.

4.8 Tourist foot fall The tourism score favors clear, rainless days with perceived temperature between 18 C and 27 C. Based on this score, the best time of year to visit Jaisalmer for general outdoor tourist activities are from late February to mid-March and from mid-October to early December, with a peak score in the second week of November. The number of tourists/ visitors to the city have been increasing every year. As of some unverified sources it is said around 750,000 visitors have visited Jaisalmer in 2019. There is seen a decrease in tourism due to the rise of corona virus in the country which has inadequately effects the tourism industry. As per some reports round 70% decline in tourism is been registered in the district.

Table 10 Tourist foot fall 40 35 30 25 20 15 10 5 0 Jan-Mar

Apr-Jun Average

July-Sept International

Oct-Dec

National

Source- Rajasthan tourism department, Jaisalmer Table 11 Tourist data mapping percentage

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Transformation of Jaisalmer city

4.9 Public administration 4.9.1 Urban services

Although the wells within the fort still provide a regular source of water, the town has no permanent source of water. Consequently, the inhabitants with their cattle herds keep on moving from one place to another. The region of around 60 km’s from the city of Jaisalmer is hard undulated stony soil with numerous rocky elevations. Those on west of Rangarh continuous like mountains with deep defiles in between while in the area of Pokhran tehsil and Deda in Sam tehsil, the land is gravel (magra). The sand deposit here appears like a limitless sea which overnight changes its position having been blown from one place and deposited at another.

In the ancient period, the women’s used to bring water from the nearby lakes by carrying matkas on their head. The lakes were divided according to the community. Every community has their separate lakes and they were only allowed to take water from the allotted lake.

Figure 26 Jaisalmer development plan

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Source- Municipal Corporation, Jaisalmer There are also certain squares located in the strategic places along with the welldeveloped and definite order of the streets and buildings make the city well organized. The major part of the lower city

is

divided

into

somewhat

rectangular blocks with closely built buildings.

The façade facing the streets are well carved and these continuous façade of exquisitely carved elements make the Figure 27: Jaisalmer Street Planning

street of Jaisalmer different from the streets in other part of the country.

Source- Natural Cooling Systems of Jaisalmer by Vinod Gupta, SPA Delhi

Figure 28 Street section Source- https://architexturez.net/doc/az-cf-123687

The streets of Jaisalmer also have some public spaces in which it becomes the place of harbor activities in the town.

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Transformation of Jaisalmer city

ObservationsNarrow and winding streets with densely built construction on both sides. All major streets were oriented in the east west directions which help the town to get a protection from sand storms. The height of buildings compared to the width of streets is large to create shaded and cool environment for the pedestrian and other social activities on the street. The jharokhas and chajjas on the building façade also help street to be shaded.

Figure 29 Street direction

Figure 30 street section and elevation of Jaisalmer old city

Source- https://architexturez.net/doc/az-cf-123687

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Figure 31 Street near Patawon ki haveli Source- https://www.makemytrip.com/travel-guide/jaisalmer/patwon-ki-haveli-monuments.html

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Transformation of Jaisalmer city

Chapter 5: Case study of dwellings In response to the increasing flow of tourists into the city, most of the buildings inside the fort as well as on its outskirts have been converted for commercial use. The transformation is particularly on a large scale within the fort, where the large havelis and small houses have been converted for commercial use.

From around 30 house visit and analysis there are some quite important and different typology of transformation of houses has been identified and elaborated below. The houses here are selected as per the physical as well as functional transformation basis.

The residential buildings that have been studied are given in the Table below.

Building

47

Use

Typology

1.

Patwon ki Haveli

Museum

Big house

2.

Baa-ri-Haveli

Museum

Big house

3.

Nathmal ki Haveli

Art effects shop + museum + residence Big house

4.

Suraj Haveli

Guest house

Big house

5.

Praveenji House

Saree shop + residence

Small house

6.

Shyamnath ki Haveli

Hotel (zostel)

Medium house

7.

Gokulji haveli

Residence and office

Medium house

8.

Praveen Singh House Book shop + residence

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Small house

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5.1 Patwon ki haveli The Patwa Haveli of the Kotharis dates back to the early eighteenth century, when the Patwas were struggling to establish their trade and industry. The Patwa brothers left Jaisalmer on the recommendation of a priest at the Jain Temple, intending to never return (they were advised by the priest that their business could not flourish in Jaisalmer).

According to history, the Patwas went on to have a thriving enterprise that included banking, insurance, silver, brocade, and the opium trade.

Patwas eventually ascended to the point where they were required to fund the state's debt.

The clan was able to return to their former home as a result of this. Ghuman Chand Patwa, the family's then head, agreed to give each of his five sons a separate and elaborate mansion, against the priest's advice. The five grandiose havelis that face the Jaisalmer Fort arose as a result.

Unfortunately, the patwas fortunes began to dwindle after they returned to Jaisalmer. As a result, they were forced to leave the city-state once more, leaving the havelis in the hands of caretakers. Over time, the caretakers were the owners of the havelis, and they agreed to sell them. Mr. Jeevanlalji Kothari, a resident of Jaisalmer who, like the patwas, had left Jaisalmer to seek better opportunities, was approached by the caretaker of the first haveli. Mr. Kothari agreed to purchase the first haveli in order to maintain relations with his hometown. As a result, it was called Kothari's Patwa Haveli.

The havelis are having such a beautiful and ornate carving which is still glazing with naked eyes that one fails to understand whether it has been carved on stone or wood. The haveli is decorated with beautiful

paintings,

golden

color

roofs,

beautifully carved door, lamp shades, niches, etc.

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Figure 32 Courtyard

48

Transformation of Jaisalmer city

Figure 33 Exterior facade

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Figure 34 sections Source- passive housing in desert Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, India by Kartikya Rajput

Built form- rectangular form

Inside the haveli there is an intensely refreshing experience. Room after rooms take us to the internal courtyard and through tiny windows a beautiful view of street can be seen.

Each haveli has similar plan which has an open terrace 0.95 meters broad followed by 2.23 meter deep verandah all interconnected together and pierced by entrance doorway through which one reaches the spacious chamber locally called “mol” opening internally on the sides of central courtyard.

The courtyard is enclosed on all sides by arched pillars corridors beyond which on the back side it has chambers. A few windows are fully covered with perforated screen showing intricate geometric designs. The building inside is plastered with lime mortar and outside it has expose stone masonry.

Figure 35 Plan Source- Passive housing in desert Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, Indie by Kartikya Rajput

Orientation- North-west to south-east oriented building

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Transformation of Jaisalmer city

Table 12 Analysis chart

Zoning- The haveli is a six-story structure with three main levels, two wind pavilions, and a basement. The ground courtyard is enclosed on both sides by verandah, with an additional row of rooms in front and back of the haveli. Per floor of the building projects outwards, both into the street and the courtyard. Wind shafts are created by linking the two stairwells.

Wall- made of stone Roof- made of stone Shading devices- projections like jharokhas, balconies and chajjas shade the lower floor.

Street- The entire street façade is covered with stone carved finned surface, balconies and sun shade.

Wind shafts- Narrow vertical ducts and staircase shafts for deflecting wind into the build form.

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Planning 1. Two havelis are under the Archaeological Survey of India's permission, and one is used for private accommodation.

2. The Patwa Haveli of Kothari is made of yellow sandstone, which is easy to carve and serves as a strong heat insulator.

3. There are five stories in each of these havelis. The main gate is located on a 7' or 8' high plinth that is accessed by a flight of stairs.

4. The otla (platform) planned along the

Figure 36 Main entrance of haveli

main gate is partially covered here, and the mol (drawing room) ceiling covers the space. The outward-projecting ceiling aids in keeping the basement cool.

5. Rooms are well lit, ventilated, and have taraphul (star-shaped) holes pierced in them.

Small openings are created on the lowest levels to allow the most amount of cool air to flow in.

Exterior

1. Each of the five havelis has a magnificent

carving,

jharokhas, baris, sun holes, and kanwals on the streetfacing

facade

(oriel

windows).

Figure 37 Jharokhas

2. The haveli has 60 balconies (Jharokhas) that look out over the courtyard and driveway. In comparison to the lower floors, the upper floors have more Jharokhas.

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Transformation of Jaisalmer city

3. The havelis entrance is marked by a lovely arched doorway with a delicately decorated façade.

4. On either side of the terrace, cupolas have been added to the outer façade to offer a clear view of the city as well as a message to the enemies.

5. Jali is used to provide illumination

and Figure 38 Exterior facade of haveli

ventilation in the haveli,

with decorative lattice work on the outside as well as the interior façade. The jalis are used to allow cold air to percolate through narrow holes, as well as for interior lighting and privacy.

Conclusion: Jalis and Jharokhas are the characteristics that shield the sturdy facade from the light.

Interior

1. The cornice, panihara (niche), and beel (projected slab over the arched doors or windows) in the halls or rooms were used to display items of interest as decorative elements. Small niches (ala) for oil lamps are exquisitely carved and ornate, resulting in a pleasing light and shadow effect in the interiors. A separate stone lamp-stand was cut out of the wall.

2. The ceilings and pillars are carved to perfection. Beautiful mirror work, as well as sculptures and murals, adorn the walls.

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3. The use of mirrors aids in light reflecting. The murals and interior design was influenced Mughal,

by and

Rajput, Victorian

architecture. These havelis were built by Hindu and Muslim

craftsmen

from

Gujarat, Malwa, and Sindh.

Figure 39 Interior wall decoration

4. The upper-floor kitchen, as well as the upper-floor ceiling, are made of wood to keep the roof cool. The parapet is not at a perfect 90-degree angle.

Analysis 

Axis - The axis is accomplished in the façade through symmetry and in the plan through rotation and openings that follow the same axis and direction.



Symmetry - By the positioning of different openings such as Jharokhas and columns, symmetry is almost accomplished.



Hierarchy - This is accomplished by varying the height of the holes in the façade. From top to bottom, the scale of the gaps grows larger.

From top to bottom, Jharokhas are listed in decreasing order.



Rhythm - This is accomplished by the use of shapes and openings that are identical. On the façade, the openings are of the same

Figure 40 Patwon ki haveli

style, with jail work, the type of chajja projection, and related motifs. 

Proportion - The proportion of the facade and the Jharokhas can be seen in the architecture.

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.2

Baa-ri haveli

450 years ago, the haveli was built. It is owned by the Vyas family, who are royal priests and advisors to the king. Their heirs are still in charge of the haveli. Carrying in yellow sandstone with planned braces, cornices, and carved niches, among other things, symbolizes craftsmanship and sculpture while maintaining the structural value of the whole structure. .

Figure 41 Mahal

1. Orientation- the longer axis of haveli is oriented in the east-west direction which gives less exposure to solar radiation.

2. Built form- the plan form of the haveli is in the shape of trapezium giving two wall exposed facing to the street.

3. Zoning- the entrance is through the east face through semi-covered space called “otla”. The otla is covered by the projections of the first floor.

4. Open spaces- there are two courtyards in the haveli measuring 3.5m by 4.7m. One courtyard cut through and through from ground floor to terrace whereas the second courtyard is on the second floor to terrace.

5. The width to height ratio of the courtyard IS 1:3. And the street width to haveli height ratio is 1:3.5.

6. Shading devices- The projections of the balcony and jharokhas are on the east and the north facade allowing natural lights to enter through openings. There are less number of opening to the external wall of the haveli.

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Planning 

The haveli is located in the center of the fort area near Jain temple at the corner junction with two sides facing the street and other two to adjacent havelis. 

The haveli is made of yellow sandstone with

carving done on its both inside and outside and these stones also serve as a strong heat insulator. 

It is a four story structure with a plinth level

of 900 mm high to the street. 

Rooms of haveli are well ventilated and

have small openings which help the cool breeze to flow inside the haveli.

Exterior 

The front façade of haveli is composed

beautiful carvings, jharokhas, chajjas and jail windows and balconies overhanging on the street.  Figure 42 Baa-ri haveli front facade

The haveli has no opening on ground floor

other than the main entrance with a carved front door.

Interior 

There are two courtyard which are the main source of light in the haveli.



The ceiling and pillars are carved out from stone.



Planning of haveli is done in such a way that it has private spaces are kept at back portion or on upper floor whereas the public spaces are at the front portion of the haveli.

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Figure 43 Plan and section of Baa-ri haveli

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Table 13 Mapping of climatic element v/s design element

Figure 44 Baithak

Transformation 

The haveli is converted into a museum.



The smaller courtyard is closed to make exhibition space in it.



Flooring at the central courtyard has been replaced from sandstone to marble.



Toilets are added on the ground floor.

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Transformation of Jaisalmer city

.3 Nathmal ki haveli Carved by Lalu and Hathi, two brothers for the Prime Minister of State, Nathmalji in 19th century. The most interesting fact is that the brothers worked separately, one on the right side and other on the left side, the result is a perfect masterpiece that amplifies the side by side symmetry of construction. The haveli is richly carved and the inner chambers are decorated with miniature paintings.

Figure 45 Exterior of Nathmal ki Haveli

The Nathamal Haveli was constructed in 1885 by Maharwal Bairisal who gifted it to his dewan Nathmal Maheshwari.

There is delicacy in the finish of the work such as around the tiny little arched windows. Plan usually the pair of elephant on the front entrance which is the symbol of the dewan.

The building constitutes a row of three

Figure 46 Arched Window

chambers in the front, proceeded by a verandah, a central courtyard surrounded by pillared verandah and other rooms. The four 59

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story front façade display on gorkha flanked by mini kamal shaped jharokhas, four rectangular and two semi octagonal projected windows that are all reviled by central or lateral arched openings and intricate jali work. The carving done here is picture depicting animals like horses, elephants, birds and warriors and also rail engine and bicycle is been carved out.

Figure 47 Carving on wall

Another feature of this house is that it has been built by huge rocks and not of dressed stone. It can be seen from the courtyard and look from the first floor main room. The front façade has been entirely covered with carvings. The inner wall has a curious unfinished charm in contrast to which the outer sophistication

work

appears

more

Figure 48 Courtyard

amazing. Either inside walls are carved

Source-

with beautiful miniature style paintings.

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:JaisalmerNathmal_ki_Haveli-03-20131010.jpg

Site level The haveli has a beautiful balance and striking symmetry since both wings of the mansion were designed at the same time by different hands. The main entrance of Nathmalji Ki Haveli is guarded by two life-size carved tuckers (elephants) made of yellow stone to equate themselves to the

Figure 49 Air duct

monarch, as well as the owner, who was the ruler's prime minister at the time.

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Transformation of Jaisalmer city

Figure 50 Floor plan Source- ttps://www.slideshare.net/faseehun/jaisalmer-final

Figure 51 Section Source- ttps://www.slideshare.net/faseehun/jaisalmer-final

Building

The haveli is a fine example of Rajput and Islamic architecture combined. The intricate carvings and architectural details give the room a royal feel. The first-floor layout is welldesigned. This floor's facade is ornately decorated and finely built, with traditional trellises and bays for the women of the house's privacy and to provide cool air. The Courtyard has always been narrow and surrounded by high walls to defend against dusty winds and to keep the surrounding spaces cold.

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Exterior 1. Elephants are still present in the Havelis of the Dewans to demonstrate their social standing.

2. A sequence of motifs, such as steam engines, cycles, warriors, caparisoned horses, elephants, and birds, are etched into the front face of the wall.

3. While the exterior seems to have a rigid formal balance, closer inspection reveals that the arrangement of the windows and projections on one half differs from the other.

4. Jharokhas have views of the avenues, and decorative lattice work is used to provide Jali all over the haveli for light and ventilation. The jalis are used to allow cold air to percolate through narrow openings, as well as to provide lighting and privacy to the interiors.

Interior Figure 52 Exterior facade

1. Miniature paintings adorn the mansion's interior.

2. The carvings on the walls and pillars are so fine and delicate that people are unable to look away from them in order to reflect their social status. Images of horses, cattle, and other animals are carved into the pillars and walls to depict everyday

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Transformation of Jaisalmer city

life, history, and customs, as well as the mode of transportation at the time the haveli was built. The mansion's walls often have many floral depictions.

3. The most intriguing feature of this haveli is the depiction of modern facilities such as cars, fans, and other similar objects, which demonstrates the influence of modern amenities. Aside from these, there are pictures engraved on pillars and walls of horses, cattle, and a Flora depiction, among other items.

Analysis

Table 14 Mapping of climatic element v/s design element of Nathmal ki Haveli

Axis- This is accomplished in the façade by creating a symmetrical axis, as well as in the plans by shaping gaps and gestures around the courtyard.

Symmetry-The placement of Jharokhas, openings, and the entry achieves almost absolute symmetry in the façade. The elephants' location on either side of the façade also contributes to this impact.

Hierarchy-This is done in the façade by increasing the height of the Jharokhas from upper to lower tales.

Rhythm-The use of related types of openings, Jharokhas, and elephant placements on either side of the façade achieves this. Jharokhas, Jali job, bagalias, and elephants all have a lot of repetition.

Proportion- The symmetry in the façade and the Jharokhas meet the proportion. The Jharokhas and their facades are built and designed using this proportioning.

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5.4 Suraj haveli Owner- Gokul Vyas Age- 74

Suraj haveli is a medium sized haveli located near the join temple. The haveli is 3 story high and a basement is also there in the haveli. It was built around 530 years ago by Suraj Vyasji and now in control of his ancestor Gokulji. The family has the business of grains wholesale which was later discontinued by Gokul Vyasji’s son.

Now the haveli is the only source of income for the family. In 2001, the family converted the haveli into a guest house while preserving the traditional character of the building.

In haveli we can also see the influence of Mughal architecture as both Hindu and Muslim craftsman were included in the construction of haveli. The haveli is built with thick yellow sand stone blocks which are interlocked to each other and also at some places it is joined with the help of iron Figure 53 Entrance

nails. No mortar is used in the construction of the haveli. Beautiful carvings are carved

out at front facade of the building and also in the courtyard. Many painting are made from the natural colors inside the haveli, especially in the drawing room at first floor.

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The plinth of haveli is about 900 mm high from the street level which is almost common in every house in the fort area. The plinth in Jaisalmer became the place for the social interaction between neighbors other than the common open plot.

The ceiling of the haveli is made up of timber placed close to each other and above that a thick mixture of cow dunk, mud and hatch is used which help the haveli in cooling it in summers and heat at winters which help in making a good micro-climate inside the haveli. The wall of the haveli are made up of yellow sandstone and wall are of around 500 mm thick whereas partitions walls are around 150 mm wide. And the interior wall are plastered with the mixture of small powder sand stone + lime + gum + sugar which make them smooth

Figure 54 Terrace window

and white. The sandstone blocks are used in flooring.

Figure 55 Courtyard

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The haveli consists of three legends. In addition, at the rear of the house, there is a basement that occupies about a third of the floor space. The current owners, Gokul and Namneed Vyas, say that the haveli was constructed over a twenty-seven-year period some five hundred years ago. The haveli has been owned by the same family for the entirety of this time, passing from eldest son to eldest son, as is custom in India. While the current owners have plenty of evidence to back up their assertions, it is highly doubtful that the main street façade is the original, as many of its designs are typical of Mogul design, which was not prevalent in Jaisalmer prior to the early sixteenth century.

Figure 56 Carving

The haveli is made up of massive blocks of honeyyellow sandstone, with smaller limestone panels in the more intricately carved parts. Both the masonry and the carved areas are made up of prefabricated panels that are put together with stone keys or iron cramps / nails are used. No mortar that was used.

This style of construction makes moving building components, such as replacing one prefabricated unit with another, relatively simple, and it is now common practice to see entire balconies retrieved from old buildings integrated into the modern. This will support the theory that the current façade of Hotel Suraj is not the original.

With the exception of one room, the stone is left uncovered with no render, allowing the grain and structure of the stone to be seen. The masonry B.Arch.

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School

Technological University

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Gujarat

Figure 57 window

66

Transformation of Jaisalmer city

panels are about half a meter high, while the limestone regions are just six centimeters thick. The ceilings are made of wood, a material that is not typical in the region, and its presence confirms that the structure is much older than its height suggests. The beams are usually three to four meters long and are supported by masonry columns. The use of masonry braces, which swing out in an S-curve from the columns, increases the spans.

A nearly central courtyard, measuring roughly five meters by three meters with the longest axis running northeast/southwest, allows light to flood the haveli. The courtyard is a vital aspect of every haveli, and much time and money is invested in making the interior facades as ornate as the exterior ones. The courtyard at Hotel Suraj is no exception; it serves as the hub of the property, linking all of the other areas both horizontally and vertically. Small carved niches are carved throughout the interior, designed to hold oil lamps. In addition, at regular intervals, miniature metal hoops are inserted into the walls, columns,

and

ceilings.

Before

electricity, tapestries and heavy cloths were hanged from these during the winter months to prevent cold draughts, according to the havelis owner. Over the season, grass blinds were hung in their place and dampened on a daily basis to keep any incoming wind at bay.

Since there are no doors or windows to the halls, thick wadded curtains made to fit each opening between the pillars provide warmth and privacy. Purdahs are the wadded curtains, which are often made of woolen fabric but are most often made of coarse calico. Aside from the purdahs, the blinds between the pillars are made of bamboo strips that are

Figure 58 Courtyard

woven together with colored cords.

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These blinds provide real comfort to everyone in India, as they let in air while keeping out flies and other troublesome insects, and the intense glare is muted by the theme. Tattis (screens) made of fragrant khus grass roots kept rooms and verandas cool above ground. The evaporation of the water cooled and refreshed the breeze as it went through the tattis into the space they shaded.

The first and second floors are reached by a stone staircase. The kitchen faces north-west on the courtyard's edge. The kitchen's slender jali perforated with star-shaped holes to improve visibility and the flow of air There are two semi-basement spaces. A much bigger haveli is located at the other end of the haveli.

Compared to the other. The biggest has just one window. Opening into the street, about half a meter square a set of ramparts. This is the only other choice

Figure 59 courtyard

outside the entrance. The entrance is on the first floor.

It's in the cellar. Accessed through a trap door in the back of the building. The haveli is a traditional Indian dwelling. The mahal, the havelis grandest room, is located on the first floor in the front of the haveli and is traditionally used as a reception room and a gathering area. To do service, the men of the home.

This room's walls are finely decorated and plastered (approximately 15mm thick).

Between the mahal and the courtyard is a small space that was once a storeroom but is now used as a common toilet. In reality, any large room in the haveli has a smaller storeroom attached to it. Traditionally, only a few rooms were available: a bathroom, a kitchen, and a dining room. Stores in a haveli were Figure 60 Courtyard

created with a particular purpose in mind.

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Transformation of Jaisalmer city

A semi-enclosed balcony, or jharokha overhangs the street in front of the mahal, offering a sitting platform suitable for views and breezes. The jharokha is made with great care in all havelis; it is a showpiece and a symbol of prosperity. These jharokhas are perfect for every occasion. Niches for evening relaxation, allowing for discreet interaction with the outside world.

Table 15 Analysis of Suraj haveli

Two of the most interesting spaces in the haveli are located towards the back of the structure. The first, which is oriented an enclosed private terrace faces the courtyard, a roofless space called chandni after the moon in Rajasthani (chand). The second is situated above the battlements, and is exposed to the elements on two sides but protected by a roof. A simple balcony at the far end of the second room provides panoramic views of the Thar Desert and Gadi Sagar Tank.

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Figure 61 Plan of Suraj Haveli

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Figure 63 Roof plan

Figure 62 Section of Suraj haveli

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5.5 Praveenji House Owner- Praveenji Vyas Age 38 Total persons in family- 4

The house is located in the Vyas pada in the town and was constructed in 15th century. The family live here are Brahmins and they are living here due to their occupation as Praveenji is priest in the Lakshmi Narayan temple in the fort area. In interview they told us that their ancestors came from lower with the king when the capital was shifted to Jaisalmer. The house is small and location at the mid of the town nearby the Lakshmi Narayan temple. The house is now renovated from inside but the original character of house can be seen in outer part of the house. The flowers and Sanskrit shlokas have been carved out here.

It is a medium scale haveli constructed over the periods in different phases and undergone through several different change on its interior portion whereas the exterior has been retained and at some part it has been repaired.

Figure 64 Praveenji House - Front Facade

Planning 

The house has evolve over the years. At the time of construction only one story was constructed later the different parts are constructed.



The private spaces are planned in such a way that it is on the back portion which is not directly linked to the street.



The central courtyard is the main source of light and ventilation in the inner portion of the house.

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Transformation of Jaisalmer city

Key features 

The carving is done on the front façade of the building.



Perforated screens and jharokhas are made for minimum intake of harsh sunlight and perforated screens help in letting cool breeze to enter in the house.

Transformations

Courtyard been closed



Room at street converted into shop



New staircase introduced



Toilet added



Change in kitchen space.

Figure 65 Shop

Table 16 Analysis of Praveenji House

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Figure 66 Plan

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Transformation of Jaisalmer city

5.6

Shyamnath ki Haveli

Shyamnath ki haveli is dated back to mid-17th century. It is a medium sized haveli located in the fort area of Jaisalmer. It is a three story building constructed around 470 years ago. The haveli is owned by their ancestors since the time of its construction. This haveli has undergone several changes over the Figure 67 Entrance

period of time. It's on the fort wall's south-east face, with the main street elevation facing south-west.

Originally this haveli was a G+1 structure which was later in 2011 for the second floor was added in the haveli. The haveli now serve as a guest house with a roof top cafe on it.

Figure 68 View of city from the Shyamnath ki Haveli Source- https://www.booking.com/hotel/in/zostel-jaisalmer-jaisalmer.en-gb.html?aid=356980

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It back is adjacent to the wall of fort which gives it a beautiful view of the whole city and sand dunes. The haveli has gone through the process of renovation in which it has added many new characteristics to it which has led to the complete transformation of the haveli.

The private rooms of haveli are converted into dormitory whereas small rooms into private room. Although owner of haveli has tried a lot to conserve the original structure whereas possible and has been successfully done it.

The haveli is known for its architectural characteristics where the courtyard in the building act as major connecting element and the only source of light of light and ventilation in the haveli. The major attraction of the haveli s its jharokhas and balconies the end which gives a mind blowing view of the city.

Orientation- East- west direction Build form- irregular Zoning- The haveli is a three story structure with one central courtyard which act as a connecting space and is the main source of light and ventilation in it. The structure forms an irregular shape due to neighboring structures and division of houses.

Roof- stone and wood Shading device- Projection like Jharokhas, balconies, carving done on wall Street- the entire street faced is covered with stone carvings, jharokhas and windows.

Figure 69 Front Facade

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Planning 

The haveli is planned in such a way that it has minimum excess to the street and complete privacy is maintained in the structure.



The haveli has a big central courtyard which is the main source of light and ventilation the haveli.



The haveli is planned in such a way that that all its public and semi-public spaces remains in the front portion and on the back portion private spaces are designed.



As the haveli is a t the edge of fort wall a beautiful overhanging balcony is made on first floor which gives a beautiful view of the city.



The rooms are designed in such a way that it remains shaded always and well ventilated.

Transformation 

The haveli has undergone through the process of renovation as the building was abounded earlier.



The rooms have been converted into dormitories for the tourists.



One floor is added in the building.



The room’s size has made smaller to construct toilets in it.



Guest room at entrance has been transformed into hotel reception.

Table 17 Analysis of Shyamnath ki Haveli

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Figure 70 Ground floor plan

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Transformation of Jaisalmer city

Figure 72 First floor plan

Figure 71 Second floor plan

Figure 73 Courtyard

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5.7

Gokulji ki Haveli

This is another medium-sized haveli, with a footprint roughly three-quarters that of the Suraj hotel. It's on the fort wall's south-east face, with the main street elevation facing south-west.

The Hotel Suraj family owns one half (which used to be the public or male half), while their cousin owns the other. Ownership of havelis becomes dispersed over time as a result of this, making repairs and upkeep impossible to coordinate. Despite the fact that it is currently unoccupied, this structure is in excellent condition. The haveli is two hundred years old, according to the owners, and the architecture is in line with Jaisalmer fashion at the moment. It was commissioned with riches amassed through travels by the thenowners of Hotel Suraj.

While there are obvious parallels with Hotel Suraj, the external influences felt by the owners during their journeys are reflected in the design of this haveli. This architecture is compartmentalized, in contrast to Suraj's transparent planning, which gives the appearance of airiness.

This is mostly due to the British need for privacy inside

the

household.

The division between male/public

and

female/private seems

to

areas be

pronounced,

more

although

this may simply be a result

of

the

current

Figure 74 Mahal View

ownership divide.

The haveli is two floors tall, with a basement that takes up about an eighth of the floor space. It has three courtyards, which is unusual for a home of the size. It's on a corner plot, with its long axis parallel to the fort wall. The structure is similar to that of Hotel Suraj, but instead of timber, stone beams have been used.

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Transformation of Jaisalmer city

There are two ways to enter the structure. The first courtyard, on the west, is the largest of three courtyards. The staircase is in the space's northern corner, and a trap-door leading down to the basement is next to it, at the rear of the courtyard. This is a good example.

The male realm, or mardana, was the havelis public face.

The first floor has the stairwell leads

to

a

balcony/corridor

small that

overlooks the main courtyard.

This results in the mahal, which runs the length of the front elevation. A tiny space can be found to right. Internal calculations were impractical since the building was already being used as a supermarket.

The

mahal

has

been

renovated. Two Jharokhas, one on either side of the lane, both topped with a bangaldar

Figure 75 Gokul Haveli - view from street

roofs.

The female rooms, or zenana, are accessed from the second entry, which is located on the right side of the front façade. A small second courtyard adds some light to this long, thin scheme, but it's still very dark in this area. The kitchen is to the left of the patio, with a second kitchen to the right opposite stairwell a family temple was located in the chamfered room to the right. On the first floor, there is a long, narrow space off the stairwell. O overhanging the battlements, which served as a latrine in the past. A bigger space is adjacent to a smaller room. A side door leads to a smaller storage area in the back.

The third courtyard is located on the first floor, in the center of the haveli. Above the temple is another chamfered space. Unlike Hotel Suraj, this structure has not undergone any recent renovations, and stone washing troughs can still be found embedded in the 81

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mud floors of both this room and the mahal. Drainage is provided by a small hole in the wall, which leads to the parapets below.

Orientation- North-south direction Build form- L-shape Zoning- The haveli is divided into two category, residence and office which are separate from each other but has a strong connection between them.

Shading device- Projection like Jharokhas, balconies, carving done on wall Street- The entire street facade is covered with stone carvings, jharokhas and windows and covered otla.

Table 18 Analysis of Gokul Haveli

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Figure 76 Plan of Gokulji haveli

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5.8

Praveen Singhji House

Figure 79 Entrance

Figure 80 Shop

Praveen Singh house lies in the category of small house. The house is located in the fort area near the royal square. The owner Praveen Singh run a book store just in front of the house. The house has been evolved over the years the house was a temporary house in past which was constructed by their ancestors as they were the guard of king and the women use to work in the palace. The house was first created only ground floor which was later modified as per need and now it is a two story house.

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Transformation of Jaisalmer city

Figure 81 Plan of Praveen Singh house

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B.Arch.

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Chapter 6: Analysis

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6.1 Introduction Jaisalmer's entire walled city is designated as a 'Heritage city.' It exhibits coherence in terms of architectural vocabulary, content, and workmanship since it is a planned city whose main elements were built. The planning of the open space system has been envisioned at a macro level as a holistic network that complements the built up areas. Not only has the powerful circulation system improved mobility, but it has also produced an artistic series of vistas. The monuments are one-of-a-kind not only in terms of architectural resolution, but also in terms of how their viewpoints are enriched by associations and the symbolic significance provided to them in the design programme.

The land use, events, and processional motions within these spaces have all strengthened this relationship. The monuments, especially the temples, were built to be seen as distinct objects in silhouette against the sky, while their entrances add variety to the continuous foreground provided by the verandahs.

The character of the interior residential cluster is derived as much from the artful grouping, clustering, and rhythmic spacing of volumes as it is from the elaborate courtyard havelis, even though the -roads were the regulatory measure. The building masses, the gaps between them, the treatment of the facades in relation to the roadway, and the building entrances achieve an intimacy that is typical of Jaisalmer on these residential streets. Unfortunately, the fabric's durability has degraded over time and as a result of rapid growth.

6.2Transformation One of the issues identified for the fort area was the amount of change that was occurring as a result of the owners' often minor interventions in historic buildings. New styles of shutters, disrespectful signs, and, most importantly, encroachment into the street are all examples of this at the street level. Houses are now being altered with new windows and balconies, as well as being expanded upwards with new designs and designs that are out of character for the neighborhood. Most of this move is due to owners and occupant’s need to fit as many functions as possible into their room, as well as accommodate new functions and extended family.

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6.2.1 Transformation in houses

The transformation in the city of Jaisalmer has taken place at a very large scale which results into the drastic change in the lifestyle and culture of the city. The dwellings units in the city provides a rich fabric of experience which witness to such efforts and one feel sense of wonder while looking at these traditional houses. The old city and the fort area of Jaisalmer has witness a lot of transformation in it due to the increase in commercial activities and tourist flow in it.

As the traditional building of the city directly reflects to the lifestyle and culture of the local persons and has its own identity. The building built here has a great impact of the period in which they are constructed. The carving on the building also states the time period of construction and the community living. Similarly the climate also plays a vital role in the house form. These havelis architectural built form has developed in response to environment, lifestyle, and material availability. In the hot and dry climate of Jaisalmer, these havelis are excellent examples of sustainability.

However, a great deal of change is occurring right now as a result of

demographic

pressure,

increased business practices, and people's shifting lifestyles. As a result, demand for electricity and utilities is growing, resulting in a slew of social and environmental problems. Buildings are also in a Figure Figure8382Street Streetview view

dilapidated condition due to a lack of upkeep, resulting in the loss of heritage.

The past habitation presents us with a rich experience in which we can study the various elements of these buildings that have been uncovered as a result of human attempts to regulate environmental comfort. Traditional structures are a representation of the indigenous people's way of life. This structures have a strong influence on the time period in which they were built. Related climates result in similar house styles, such as B.Arch.

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courtyards, terraces, otalas, and balconies or chajjas in Jaisalmer dwellings. Human attempts to meet the above needs have resulted in the creation of those components. These elements were increasingly applied to purposes other than those for which they were initially designed, and new significance was discovered for them. The architecture of Jaisalmer is a fine blend of Hindu and Mughal structural patterns.

Here is the plan showing the transformation taken place in terms of the building usage in the old city of Jaisalmer

Figure 84 Fort area transformation plan Source- https://in.pinterest.com/nehamedishetty2000/forts/

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The above show the transformation taken place in terms of usage of the building use in the upper city of Jaisalmer. The city witness a lot of transformation from residential to commercial and marketplace. Many of the residential units are also converted into guest house and hotels.

The red color demarks the transformed spaces which are converted from residential to commercial as per the time pass and the requirement changes. Due to the increase in tourist flow many residential buildings or havelis are converted into guest houses, restaurants and cafes. Many small houses converted their front façade or room into a shop which creates employment in the region and now become a major livelihood activity for their family. Many residents portion is now converted into restaurants and café which are on ground floor and family lives on the first floor.

Mostly the havelis near the fort wall has converted into hotels and guest house which also provide a good view from the top of it and has become a major attraction for the tourists.

Whereas the houses on the main streets like the street towards the Jian temple and canons are converted into shops which mainly sells the artifacts, traditional dresses, saffa, paintings and many more gifting items.

There are around 45 places in the fort are which has been converted from residential to commercial space.

6.2.2 Examples of transformation Transformation has taken place at a huge scale within both public spaces and private spaces in both the old as well as new city of Jaisalmer. Many structures has undergone through the phase of redevelopment or renovation which led to change in the characteristic of that building. Due to the restriction and bylaws many structures are conserved. For example- The royal square

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The Royal Square is a well-designed area that serves as the heart of the upper city and the Royal quarters. It has a good architectural order quality. When approaching the square along a twisting and well-guarded road, there are few buildings visible; instead, one can see the horizon just above the fort wall. Just by turning right can one see the ornately decorated Royal Palace and the exquisitely crafted shrine. In this square, visitors and merchants interacted with the king and the community.

The king's seat is in a diagonal corner of the square, overlooking the square.

Figure 85 Royal Square Entrance

But now the royal square has also changed with the time where it was used by the kings for public gatherings

whereas now it used as auto stands and street vendors on the square.

In the ancient period this space was the town center where the visitor and traders visit to meet the king and also king organize

their

public

gathering here. Other than that this space served as the connection of the old city to the Figure 86 Vendors selling shawl and saree at Royal Square lower area and it is the first chowk and space when we enter the old city. It's surrounded by narrow streets, which I walk down to look at shops selling turbans in a rainbow of colours, flowing dresses, woven rugs and blankets, and mojaris and jootis, hand-embroidered slippers. The chowk itself have some shops and handcart which use to sell sarees, shawl, pachrangi turban and many more articles.

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Figure 87 Royal square drawings

Source- https://architexturez.net/doc/az-cf-123687

In chowk we can also see some guides sitting which made us a tour of the fort and the nearby areas. Many auto-rickshaw and two wheelers can also be seen parked here as it is the last point where any car or rickshaw can come.

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Figure 88 Royal square activities

The gateway to the city's Rajmahal, the former royal palace, is the main attraction on the square. It is now the Jaisalmer Fort Palace Museum & Heritage Centre, but handprints on its sides serve as reminders of what happened here in the past. Royal widows committing sati (self-immolation) in the 14th and 15th centuries will dip their hands in henna and press them against the palace walls before diving onto their husband's funeral pyre.

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6.3 Case study In this section the analysis is done according to the case studies. The analysis is done on a comparative study of all case study and general references and on the basis of above information.

1

 Narrow streets with a dense construction on its both side.

Streets

 All major streets oriented in east-west direction.  Width of street smaller than the building height.  Street having overhanging projections with jharokhas or chajjas on the above floor.  Due to this huge difference between street width and building height the streets always remain shaded as shown in section.  In these streets vehicular movement is difficult. Mostly two wheelers can access the major part of it.

Transformation Most streets have retained their character by the new developing streets are made wider and have access of vehicles.  In the old city, streets were made up of stone whereas now it is replaced by concrete and bitumen.

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2

Jharokhas

 The jharokhas were made to give an extra cover from harsh sunlight entering the house and for the cold breeze to enter house.  In ancient time the jharokhas were made at the front façade. The size and carving done on it depict the culture and wealth of the family living in it.

Transformation  In new construction this element is lost whereas there are some craftsman who made such kind of jharokhas.  Due to the government policies many houses with carved jharokhas are preserved and renovated.

3.

Courtyard

 Courtyards can be found in almost every house of any scale whether it is big or small, the size of courtyard changes.  Courtyard is a very important technique to cut down the heat inside the house and make it well ventilated.  As per the tradition many courtyards have holy basil plants at the centre of courtyard which is prayed every day.  Courtyard behaves differently in both summer and winter and day and night.  It help in giving the stack effect in daytime and night also.  Many important everyday activities taken part in the courtyard and make it an important feature of the house.  Many activities like kid playing, washing clothes, reading newspaper, preparation of food etc. take place in it.  On an important function like marriage, festivals courtyard plays an important role.

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 In big havelis thee are more than one courtyards which were used as the cultural prospective like outer courtyard was used for men while inner was used by women.  In many havelis people use to cover courtyard with Thach in summers for letting the minimum amount of light entering inside it.

Transformation  Many houses now has packed their courtyard while the expansion of house.  As some house has transformed into a commercial space the usage of courtyard has also changed. Like in hotels and guest houses courtyard has been just used as connecting element which connects one part of building to other. Whereas in some spaces it has become an element where one can sit and spend some good time.

4

 Jaisalmer city is famous for its wall carving and wall texture.

Wall carvings

 Carving helps in shading the major part of wall and only few exposed to the sun which help building to remain cool at hot summer days. 

Carving done on the front facade is considered as the status of the house about how it has been done.

Transformation 

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In the new construction the work of carving has drastically reduced due to unviability of skill labors.

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5

Wall



In the above case studies we all are been made out of stone with mud plaster on it.



In most of houses no mortar is used either is joined by mud and hatch mortar or the stone are interlocked with each other.



The mid-18th and 19th century lime plaster was used.



There are very thick wall made of yellow sandstone of about 450mm to 750mm and patrician wall of 200mm to 450mm.



These wall are exposed in exterior of building weather it is plastered with a combination of mud, thatch, cow dung and lime inside the building.

Transformation

6

Shading devices



The modern construction the cement has become the main binding particle in the building.



In old buildings wall another layer of plaster has been implemented in the renovation process.



Shading devices like chajja help in reducing the intake of solar radiation in the houses.



Balconies constructed on the upper floor used as a shading device for lower floor.



The overhanging jharokhas and chajjas act as shading device for streets.

Transformation

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Jali



In new construction the overhanging jharokhas less visible in the city.



Jali is used as small perforations in a wall, has proven to be useful in hot, dry climates.



Jali is able to reduce the amount of direct sunlight and, as a result, the amount of heat that enters the building.



It also allows air to flow in all directions

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for cross-breeze and ventilation. 

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Jali divides a standard window's cumulative square meter of combined aperture area into a variety of small openings. The holes are nearly the same size as the thickness of the material used to construct it, or sometimes smaller. This assumes that each gap has a cubical proportion of height proportional to width, preventing direct sunrays and haze, as well as the glare that comes with them, for the majority of the day and through seasons.

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Housing typology There are three main category in which the house form can be categorizedSmall house

Medium house

Haveli

Floor

Ground floor

G+1

G+2 to G+5

Courtyard

Available

Available

Available

Wall

Mud wall or stone Stone wall with lime 1. Stone wall interlocked to each wall with mud mortar other or either joined mortar by nails.

2. Stone wall with lime mortar

Carving

NA

Only on front facade

Ys

decorated

with

carved surface Roof

Thach or stone roof

Stone roof

Wooden and stone roofs

Flooring

Mixture

Stone

Stone and marble

NA

Available

(mud + cow dung + thatch) Basement

NA

in

some

cases.

Plaster

Mud plaster

(interior)

Mud plaster

Mixture

(at some places it has (mud + cow dung + been

transformed

cement

plaster

to lime) in

renovation) Shading

Chajjas

devices

Chajja

Chajja

Jali

Jali

Jharokhas

Jharokhas

Wall carving

Wall carving Chhatris

Ventilation

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Windows

Windows

Windows

Courtyard

Courtyard

Courtyard

Jali

Jali

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Bay window

Bay window Wind shaft

Plan

Table 19 Analysis according to data collected

6.4

Services

We can witness several changes occurred due to change in lifestyle and introduction to new services in the life of people like electricity, sanitation water taps has impacted in the original form of house which has made several transformation in the building spaces and connections.

Electricity During the planning of city the electricity was not introduced and no provision was planned for it. On the arrival of electricity in the city electric poles were placed but after the increase in consumption many problems city started facing. Like open wires in city has often short circuits in it. And also the wires are not properly placed which create kiosk at several places. Also inside the building there is open wiring done in it.

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Figure 89 Light cables hanging in street

Figure 90 Light poles placed without proper planning

Sanitation When the sanitations facilities were introduced in the building. The building has gone through several changes in the terms of space and the sewage problems which were sorted by the course of time.

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6.5 Common factors There are various factors which are common in most the dwellings. As per the case studies done above and other dwellings unit visited I have reached to the factor which affect the most in the dwellings that areTable 20 Commutative analysis

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Chapter 7: Conclusion The study include the settlement of Jaisalmer city in Rajasthan. It is identified that the transformation has taken at a very hue scale inside the city. Also the settlement pattern at the urban level are planned with respect to the need of climate, culture, social belief and security factors as its main concern. Moreover the city has developed its unique characteristics with its construction technique, art & craft and carvings done. Also the locally available materials are used in construction like yellow sandstone, mud, thatch, lime plaster and wood and also been evolved as the time passed.

Moreover the urban settlement includes some characters like narrow streets, central courtyard, and space distribution in dwellings and also the common spaces or cluster spaces in the city which all has undergone through different kinds of process of transformation as per requirement. The settlement at rural levels were usually single or double storied whereas at urban context it is generally double story or 5- storied (haveli)

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Transformation of Jaisalmer city

as observed.

There are various factors which became a very strong reason for the transformation of the city like the addition of sanitation facilities, electricity and other services in the building which has distinctly impacted the dwellings of the city. Also the increase in tourist footfall in the city has forced the city to undergo through the process of transformation.

The increase in tourist flow has drastically impacted the original character of the city. As the tourist increases the increase in number of street vendors can be certainly analyzed at the tourist places whereas the conversion of residence structure into a commercial complex or a hotel and guest house has taken place. And in some cases the front portion or ground floor has been converted into either a shop or a restaurant / café.

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References Bibliography



Art and architecture of Jaisalmer, Sureshwara Nand, 2001



Jaisalmer the golden city, Daulat Singh Rajawat



Pragrati Prativedan, Rajasthan Government 2020-2021



Place making in Jaipur Urban Centre, Gokul Goyal, 2014



History of Rajasthan, Rima Hooja

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Webliography



https://issuu.com/ayushag240918/docs/ayush_agarwal-_report__1ms16at011_



https://issuu.com/nazukkeshan/docs/merged



http://www.sdmarchitects.com/jaisalmer-fort-conservation-project-rajasthan.html



https://www.slideshare.net/aasthatalwar3/jaisalmer-study



https://www.flickr.com/photos/maartenruijters/



https://issuu.com/beatricecorsini/docs/inner_space



https://issuu.com/nehamann/docs/wrought_iron_2



https://issuu.com/gokularchi/docs/final_report



https://issuu.com/beatricecorsini/docs/inner_space



https://www.wmf.org/sites/default/files/article/pdfs/Jaisalmer_Fort_Third_Technica l_Mission_Identification_of_a_Pilot_Project.pdf

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Organic buildings are the strength and lightness of the spiders' spinning, buildings qualified by light, bred by native character to environment, married to the ground.

-Frank Lloyd Wright

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