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Shekhawati
About
Kye (Ki) Monastery in Spiti valley is another magnificient monument in Himachal Pradesh. The structure is so huge, that it looks more like a fort, than a monastery. The construction of this monastery does not look very orderly, rather it seems that in successive time, many temples have been added on top of the existing one. It has been a major centre of Buddhist learning and pilgimage. Kye houses beautiful scriptures and paintings of Budha and other gods and goddesses. The monastery is also a centre for religious teachings to Lamas (the Tibetan Monks). One can find Lamas practice, dance, sing and play on pipes and horns. It has a cloocetion of ancient murals and books of high aesthetic value. This monastery is a perfect example of the monastic architecture. Kye monastery was attacked by the Mongols during 17th century, and suffered 3 more attacks in 19th century. The successive trails of destruction and patch-up jobs have resulted in a haphazard growth of box-like structures, and thus complex now resembles a defensive fort. There are numerous havelis in Shekhawati, some of them dating back to the 18th century. They are in rich artistic tradition and the latest one were built in the early 20th century. From painted murals to carvings to mirror work, these havelis have their walls and ceilings adorned with numerous forms of fine art. The frescos of the some havelis even depict mythological themes as well as images of huge animals. With the passage of time the themes changed. Some havelis have frescos showing the arrival of the British and some others highlight steam locomotives and train. For the lovers of frescoes and wall paintings, this is one of the best regions to visit to understand the evolution of themes over the centuries and to see different styles of painting and decorative art on a huge scale.
