Jal Mahal: Revival of a Pleasure Palace
Navrattan Kothari, Rajeev Lunkad and Pramod Kumar KG
The story of the Jal Mahal’s resurrection is of an ecological approach to conservation, of historic study, careful planning, and finally of cultural re-integration of a depleted past. The book chronicles a new approach to restoration and revitalization allowing the monument to go beyond its past glory and contribute to the city’s economy. Today, as visitors step back in time, a certain reverie helps capture the intimacy of a bygone moment in perfect harmony with nature. A far pavilion has been rejuvenated and Jaipur today proudly reclaims a magical bit of its history.
Navrattan Kothari has led the KGK Group since the 1960s as its Chairman, transforming it into an international behemoth spanning 15 countries. His philanthropic footprint is evidenced by the creation of a dedicated cancer hospital, and multiple educational institutions, while his commitment to cultural preservation resulted in Jal Mahal’s restoration. His visionary zeal and ethical commitment continue to inspire, making him a global figure in the gem and jewellery industry.
Rajeev Lunkad Founder and Creative Director at Direct Create, is an architect celebrated for his cultural projects in India. With a distinctive approach to design and innovation, he was the Conceptualizer and Project Director for rejuvenating the Jal Mahal monument and Man Sagar Lake. He also played a pivotal role in designing the Cultural Elements for India’s new Parliament building, establishing the continuity of traditional knowledge systems in the emerging digital age.
Pramod Kumar KG is the Managing Director of the Delhi-based Eka Archiving Services Pvt. Ltd., India's first museum consulting company. He is the consultant curator for the City Palace Museum, Udaipur and was until recently Associate Director of the Alkazi Foundation, which holds the Alkazi Collection of Photography. He established the Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing in 2005, and was its Founder/Director. During his tenure as the Director of the Jaipur Virasat Foundation, Pramod KG organised the Jaipur Heritage International Festival and founded the Jaipur Literature Festival in 2005.