Situated 8 kilometers from Bikaner, Devi Kund is a classic example of the Rajputana style of architecture. Devi Kund is a royal crematorium with elegant cenotaphs (known as chhattris) and each of these has something unique about it.
Built in the memory of the deceased members of the Bikaji Dynasty, these cenotaphs narrate stories of bravery and chivalry. Chhattris of early rulers are made out of red sandstone, while those of later ones are made out of white marble. The prettiest of them all is Maharaja Suraj Singh’s Chhattri,which is made of marble and has exclusive Rajputana style paintings on its ceiling.
One thing that is interesting to note about Devi Kund Chhattris is the distinguishing factor, or particularly the architectural alterations done with respect to the gender of the royal ruler. The chhattris of adult men are white structures with an upright stela (stone slab) with their name engraved on it; while chhatris for royal wives have a horizontal plaque with footprints. There are even a few marble cenotaphs which are dedicated to royal children, who met premature death.
When you are in Bikaner, do explore these cenotaphs, each of which are decorated with frescoes and portraits and prove to be a masterpiece of architectural excellence.
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