Fresco Paintings in the Khem Singh Bhedi Haveli

Abstract

This paper debated an overview of fresco paintings of historical Sikh Haveli, which is situated on the Potohar Plateau and located in Kallar Sayedan at Rawalpindi. The Haveli is locally known as Bhedi Mahal. The Potohar Plateau is not famous for prehistoric cultures but also for the Hindu and Sikh monuments before the partition period. These monuments are the property of the evacuee trust of Pakistan which is responsible for protection and preservation. In addition, the Sikhs Haveli is well known as the Khem Bhedi Singh. It is covered approximately four canals. There are numerous fresco paintings on the walls and the columns inside the Haveli, having secular and religious themes. The religious paintings have a portrait of Sikh gurus. Floral designs were also seen in these paintings. These paintings are refluxed to Indian art and also influenced by Pahari and Ajanta School of Arts. The purpose of this research is to document and properly conserve these murals of historical importance. The researcher has conducted a survey of the area by frequent visits to Kallar Sayedan and carefully studied paintings of Haveli and their various aspects.