Kapurthala chronicles: An untapped tourism goldmine

The clouds heavy with unshed rain gathered in the sky as two vans rolled forward carrying a group of literary enthusiasts, befittingly named, Bookworms Jalandhar.

- Randeep Kaur Mand

Having immersed themselves in the glossy pages of a coffee table book titled, Prince, Patron and Patriarch, the book lovers had uncovered a forgotten world, the kingdom of Maharaja Jagatjit Singh that had once thrived in their very own neighbourhood, Kapurthala.

This journey was to begin with an exclusive visit to the enchanting Villa Buona Vista, that once served as a hunting lodge for the Maharaja, and till date is Kapurthala's best kept secret. The book club members, each with a discerning eye, could appreciate the exquisite furnishings and numerous artefacts gathered from his extensive travels from around the world.

After an animated interaction with their hosts and high tea in the villa's verandah, it was time to move forward to explore the city. One couldn't help but cast a last, wistful glance at this architectural marvel that has witnessed tales of royalty and valour which have gradually faded into obscurity.