Sandstone architecture is synonymous with the architecture of Rajasthan, over the past many centuries. Sustainability – long before it became a trending catchphrase – was deeply ingrained in the Indian subconscious. Use of locally available materials and construction techniques to reduce ambient temperatures have been observed in the forts and palaces that were built in ancient times! Water harvesting techniques have been an integral part of Indian civilization, and particularly employed in arid regions like Rajasthan.

After independence, the nation was struggling to get back on its feet, to break free from centuries of slavery and plunder by the British, Mughals and other invaders and simultaneously create a new identity. In this process the iinculcation of traditional building technologies took a backseat, and was lost to the younger generations. Also the Industrial revolution brought an onslaught of new materials, faster construction time, and got more employment opportunities.