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Contents: Foreword, Introduction. Preface. 1. Valour, Wars and Heroes. 2. Creators of Destiny. 3. Poetry: In Stone, Clay and on Paper.  4. Threads of Life: Fairs and Festivals. 5. Magical Hands. 6. Desert Adventure: Lure of Tourism. 7. Rajputs in the Eyes of People. Glossary.  Bibliography. Photo credit. index.

Rajasthan, as one of the oldest civilisations in the world, is an exotic symbol of Indian culture which is known for its chivalry, valour, sacrifice, romance, loyalty and perseverance. Its name evokes golden sand dunes of the Thar desert; the architectural splendour of forts, palaces and temples; the ancient Aravalli range; India’s largest saline lake, Sambhar; diverse flora and fauna; unique cuisine; brave, sturdy, cheerful and resourceful inhabitants. Hindus, Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Jains, Buddhists and Parsis coexist peacefully, in harmony with community celebration and well-being.

Widespread fascination with colours and patterns finds vivid expression on the walls of village houses. The exuberant celebration of traditional festivals manifests in age-old traditions, rituals, sports, and pageantry. Joie de vivre is expressed through dance and music, envelops and brings the desert to life. Rajasthanis have excelled in all the major spheres of life and achieved particular success as entrepreneurs and innovators, given their qualities of tenacity, enthusiasm, grit, drive and sense of mission. The socio-cultural, religious ethos, and the natural geographical terrain have served to strengthen their zest for life.

This book captures some of the lesser known aspects of Rajasthan's past and present, blending the finest aspect of its rich heritage. The state is celebrated for its exquisite miniature paintings, frescoes, fabrics, artefacts and fine jewellery which mirror its creativity. This also finds rich expression in folk music, instruments and musicians. Numerous magnificent temples adorned with intricate carvings and sculpture built over the centuries dot the entire state, making a popular pilgrim resort for people of different faiths.

The Rajasthani story epitomises man's triumph over a harsh desert land. Rajasthan: A Land of Beauty and Bravery encapsulates the mystique and uniqueness of the state. This pictorial book comprising 345 pages richly illustrated with over 350 rare, colour photographs, paintings, lithographs, maps, documents, 104 black and white photographs, illustrations and line sketches, published for the first time are calculated to capture the imagination of the discerning reader.

Front Cover Caption: A beautiful Rajasthani woman with musical instrument painted by artist Gopal Swami Khetanchi. Who is known for painting petite female figures, Rajput women and Rajasthani village women, as well as adapting classical European paintings to Indian versions. Distinguishing features of his style are uniqueness, delicacy and swiftness of drawing. His works span from romanticism to deep realism.

Beautiful Rajasthan is one of the most attractive and colourful states of India which never ceases to amaze with its old-world charm and magical beauty. It is a land of colours, dances, festivals, rituals, and music. The diverse collection of music of the state has attracted people all over the world. Describing the beauty of this splendid state in a few lines is practically an impossible task. But it reflects in the lifestyle and numerous professions of its inhabitants who are equally known for their indomitable spirit, courage, gallantry and valour. Its historical ballads recited by bards and folk-singers inspire heroism. The brave sons of its soil have always been willing to sacrifice their lives for their motherland. In fact, the beauty of Rajasthan is truly hard to beat.