“You don't stumble upon your heritage. It's there, just waiting to be explored and shared."-Robbie Robertson
1860
The Jhira Bagh Palace was built by Maharaja Anand Rao Puar III of Dhar as a grand English guest house for the state of Dhar. It was designed in the grand and stately architecture prevalent in the Malwa Plateau. Each "Jali" (lattice screen) and piece of furniture is handcrafted, showcasing art forms that have become obscure today.
During its time, the palace served as a residence for important British officials, Viceroys, and Governor Generals of India, and was used for official as well as recreational visits. Historical records show that elaborate plans were made for banquets, picnics, hunting expeditions, and sightseeing tours while they were staying in the palace.
1943
The last ruler of Dhar, Maharaja Anand Rao Puar IV decided to renovate the Jhira Bagh Palace into his official residence. The well-known firm 'Gregson Batly & kings' were chosen for the renovation of the Palace since the main objective of the then ruler was to give it a modern colonial look, in harmony with the Art deco and the Bauhaus styles.
Crowned amidst hundreds of acres of land and gardens, the Jhira Bagh palace was the crown jewel of Malwa. But the majesty could not last long because by the time it was almost complete, times had changed.
