Feeding of the crocodiles. 1720. Anon
We visited Udaipur in the new year. Since it is the city of lakes we took a boat ride. The Jag Mandir is accessible only theough the boat rides arranged by the City Palace.
The construction of the palace was started in 1551 by Maharana Amar Singh, continued by Maharana Karan Singh (1620–1628) and finally completed by Maharana Jagat Singh I (1628–1652). It is named as “Jagat Mandir” in honour of the last named Maharana Jagat Singh. Now shortened to Jag Mandir.
I went there thinking it was actually a mandir! Turned out its a high end spa now.
It was in this lake palace that Prince Khurram ( later Shah Jahan ) took refuge in 1623 when he had rebelled. He stayed in the domed structure called Gol Mahal.
The highly unusual painting ( first image) is from the same palace in Udaipur, in Asian Art Gallery, Washington. Sent by a friend.
The mood of courtly pleasure- vilas- Sangram Singh & his courtiers rushed into the palace kitchen to watch crocodiles tussling in the waters
Image 2 is of the same landing dock but no crocodiles to be seen there now.
