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ECHOES OF A ROYAL ERA - INSIDE THE MAGNIFICENT SAMODE PALACE
The Samode Palace, located in the village of Samode, near Jaipur, Rajasthan has a rich history that dates back several centuries. A testament to the architectural and cultural heritage of Rajasthan, the 300 year old palace was home to the ruling family of Samode, when it was built as a fortified mansion by the noble Rawals of Amber. Samode was granted as a fiefdom to the Rawals, making it their ancestral home. The palace has served as a residence for the royal family and a symbol of their prestige ever since.
With accents of Indo-Saracenic architecture and mesmeric white marble embossed with tales of history, Samode Palace immediately teleports the guest to the grandeur of the yesteryears.
The palace’s architecture reflects a fusion of Mughal and Rajput styles, inherent to the time it was built in. Its ornate frescoes, intricate mirror work, and beautifully landscaped Mughal gardens are some of the architectural elements that shine through. In the late 20th century, the palace was converted into a luxurious heritage hotel, its artistic details successfully transcending time and seasons. The Samode family, who still owns the palace, played a significant role in preserving and restoring the heritage gem.
“A significant historical chapter in its history is the Samode family’s role during the British Raj. This marked a period of political importance and responsibility for the family. In recognition of their service and prime contributions to the region, our ancestors were rewarded with the prestigious hereditary titles of Rawal Saheb”, reminisces Yadavendra Singh, Co-owner & Partner at Samode Hotels.
“The heart of Samode village, with its narrow, historic streets, leads to the awe-inspiring Samode Palace. This magnificent structure has witnessed over 450 years of history, preserving tales of valour, opulence, and transformation. Originally built as a fort in the 16th century to safeguard local rulers, it underwent a transformation during the 19th century, becoming an opulent palace. In 1987, the palace was remodelled and reimagined as a luxury hotel”, says Yadavendra.
Offering guests to experience the opulence and grandeur of a bygone era, the Samode Palace has been a venue for numerous cultural events, weddings, and inspiration for artists and filmmakers alike. The custodians of the Palace, brothers and co-owners of Samode Hotels, Yadavendra and Raghavendra Singh possess immense passion for preserving the palace’s legacy while ensuring its relevance in the 21st century.
“My brother, Raghavendra and I spent many a weekends and vacations during our childhood at our ancestral palace, and decided to convert it into a boutique hotel with just 40 rooms, thus preserving its historical significance while making it accessible to travellers and tourists seeking a taste of the region’s royal heritage. Samode Palace now stands as a testament to the grandeur and legacy of Rajasthan’s history, offering a unique and luxurious experience”, reiterates Singh.
Great attention was paid to restore the original glory including features like wall paintings, flooring, murals, wall panelling, masonry, and structural plastering. Undertaken using age-old techniques and craftsmanship like filigree work, elaborate landscaping, and cleverly designed courtyards, the restoration was painstakingly carried out by the Kumawat community, integral to the village of Samode.
The ‘Sheesh Mahal’ or ‘Palace of Mirrors’ is a prominent feature in some sections of the palace. “One of the most cherished and exquisitely restored rooms, the ‘Sheesh Mahal’ takes its name from the abundant use of mirrors in its design. The Durbar Hall – an equally stunning addition is used for ceremonial occasions or important gatherings and royal events. Both these rooms boast intricate ornamentation featuring pillars adorned with elaborate mosaic works.”
The exterior of the palace boasts a grand and intricately designed façade that reflects the influence of Mughal architecture. Built with sandstone, it features arched doorways, ornately carved brackets, and decorative lattice work that adds to its visual charm. Centred on a series of courtyards landscaped with Mughal-style gardens, fountains, and pools creating a sense of serenity and beauty, the palace features exquisite frescoes and murals showcasing themes of royal precessions, scenes from Hindu mythology, and floral motifs.
Trickled with lavishly decorated rooms, each with its own unique colour palette and theme, the rooms at Samode are adorned with intricate frescoes, mirror work, and antique carved furniture. The use of dark wood and plush upholstery adds to its regal ambience. Also featuring a vast collection of traditional artifacts from Rajasthan, including miniature paintings, antique weaponry, and intricate tapestries, the interiors contribute to the palace’s authentic and culturally rich atmosphere.
The palace transports visitors to a bygone era of royalty and luxury. Every room and space is a work of art, showcasing the craftsmanship, heritage, and timeless beauty of Rajasthan’s cultural legacy. The architecture seamlessly blends elements of Mughal and Rajput design, creating a visual spectacle that befits its historical significance.
