India’s architectural legacy is very elaborate, with beauty beyond measure. You’ll find many magnificent elements that showcase our country’s grace, craftsmanship, and culture. One such piece of architecture is the Jharokha, a timeless marvel has adorned India's palaces and havelis for generations. Whether you appreciate art or simply desire something unique for your home, you’ll surely love them!
In this blog, we shall cover everything you need to know about Jharokhas; unravelling their historical significance, practical applications, diverse variations, and offering insights on how to select the best piece for your home.
What are Jharokhas?
Jharokhas are latticed windows projecting out of walls, usually on high stories, often designed as overhanging balconies. The name is derived from the Sanskrit words 'Jhar' (meaning 'to watch') and 'Okha' (meaning 'window'). Crafted with great skill and using materials like wood and stone, these windows were a mainstay in Rajput and Mughal architecture. The patterns, a true reflection of the dedicated artistry of skilled craftsmen, intricately weave together geometric designs, floral motifs, and elaborate details, narrating tales of enduring creation.
What are the Uses of Jharokha?
Over the years, Jharokhas have served multifaceted uses that extend beyond their architectural function:
Historical use
In ancient times, Jarokhas were used by royalty and nobility to address the public, watch processions and events, and appreciate the outside view. They often adorned the facades of palaces and havelis, adding to their regal splendour. In the Mughal era, Jharokhas held a prominent role as a means of addressing the public. This practice, known as "Jharokha-i-Darshan," was introduced by Emperor Akbar, who used Jharokhas to engage with his subjects regularly.
Even today, paintings portraying Akbar seated in a Jharokha remain iconic. The architectural feature of a Jharokha is prevalent in both Mughal and Rajput architecture.
Jharokha windows also served as a means for women in royal households to observe the outside world, without themselves being seen. This allowed them to maintain their privacy, as was the tradition during older periods.
Modern use
Today, jharokhas are popular for their beauty, as art for decorating one’s home. They go well with traditional houses, adding a touch of luxury to them. They are also a popular decor option for various commercial settings, including hotels, restaurants, etc.
Different Types of Jharokhas you Can Buy
Considering adding a Jharokha to your home? Well, you have a plethora of options from which to choose, all catering to different tastes and interior styles! Here are some popular options:
1. Rajasthani Jharokha
A Rajasthani Jharokha, as the name suggests, is inspired by the royal culture of Rajasthan. They are usually crafted from wood and adorned with beautiful carvings, which exudes grandeur and opulence, similar to ancient palaces and temples. The warm, earthy tones of wooden jharokas paired with vibrant colours make these pieces a stunning addition to any living space.
2. Mughal-style Jharokha
The Mughal dynasty's architectural has heavily influened India, and Mughal-inspired Jharokhas pay homage to this rich legacy. These Jharokas are usually made of wood, and feature elaborate floral patterns and intricate detailing. They may sometimes even incorporate miniature paintings, levelling up the overall design.
3. Contemporary or Modern Jharokha
If your decor leans more towards the sleek and minimalist side, it’s best to go contemporary! These designs simplify the traditional lattice work, offering a cleaner and more streamlined look. Contemporary Jharokas can be made from a variety of materials, including metal and glass, and they often feature monochromatic colour schemes. Also, contemporary Jharoka mirrors are great gifts for your friends and family.
4. Antique Jharokha
Want to add a touch of luxury to your house? Pick out a few antique wooden Jharokas! They possess a unique charm, thanks to their weathered appearance, and most of them have a interesting origin stories as well. This also makes them collectors' items for those who appreciate history. You can buy an authentic vintage jharokha online on a few auction sites, or at an antique store near you.
5. Fusion Jharokha
Here’s one of our favourite option; fusion Jharokhas offer a blend of tradition and modernity. They combine traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design elements, creating a fusion of old and new. These often incorporate materials like metal, glass, and even acrylic.
How to Choose the Right Jharokha
Selecting the perfect Jharokha for your space involves careful consideration of various factors. Here's a guide to help you make the right choice:
1. Size and Proportion
Consider the available wall space and the room's proportions. A larger Jharoka can be a striking focal point, while smaller ones can complement other decor elements. You can even combine them with other decor pieces or use them in unique ways, (like as decorative frames for pictures, etc.) depending on your taste.
2. Theme and Storytelling
Jharokhas often tell a story through their intricate designs. Choose one that resonates with your style or reflects a particular theme, such as nature, spirituality, or tradition. If you choose a Jharoka mirror, it should complement the wall on which it is placed.
3. Orientation and Placement
Determine whether you want a vertical or horizontal Jharokha, and where you plan to place it. Vertical ones work well on tall walls, while horizontal ones can be placed above furniture or in narrower spaces.
4. Material
Consider the material and finishing that will best complement your decor. Wooden Jharokas have a warm, rustic charm, while metal or glass ones offer a more contemporary look. This affects the overall design as well, e.g., modern/contemporary ones even use ceramic, and due to the unique material, they are designed to be a lot more minimalistic. Traditional wood ones, on the other hand, can be designed to be minimalist or boldly artistic, as the material is easy to work on.
5. Style and Detailing
Do you love old-school aesthetics? Pick a Rajasthani or Mughal-style Jharokas. Do you prefer minimalism, or is your home thoroughly modern? Go for a contemporary one. It is important to take into account your existing home decor and how (or where) a Jharoka piece will fit in, before you make that purchase. Choose wisely, lest you end up with a mismatch.
Why Choose Khojcraft for Buying Jharokha?
When it comes to finding the perfect Jharokha for your home, look no further than Khojcraft. We have a massive collection for you to choose from, ranging from traditional to contemporary. And the best part? It’s all available at your fingertips through our Jharokha online shopping platform! We ship all over India, and to other countries as well, with guaranteed delivery. So, no matter where you are, we’ll get your Jharoka to you safe and sound!
Jharokas are a testament to India's rich history, artistic traditions, and enduring charm. Whether you choose a traditional masterpiece, or a contemporary gem, these pieces will help you connect with our cultural legacy and add a touch of elegance to your home or office.
Where should I put Jharokha in my house?
You can either mount it on a wall as a standalone piece or elevate its charm by incorporating a painting or DIY design inside, such as traditional artwork or handcrafted decorations. However, it is necessary to take into account the existing interior decor of your house. The placement of a Jharokha in your home should be carefully considered to enhance its aesthetic appeal and cultural significance.
Are Jharokhas good for decorating commercial spaces, like hotels, restaurants, resorts, etc.?
Jharokhas are an excellent choice for uplifting the aesthetics of hotels, restaurants, resorts, and other such commercial spaces. They serve as captivating traditional focal points, adding to the overall ambience and cultural charm of the environment. They are also great for decorating office interiors, adding elegance and class to corporate settings.
Where should I mount a Jharokha mirror?
You should place your Jharokha mirror in a prominent position within the room, ideally at eye level. This positioning helps accentuate its beauty while allowing it to serve as a captivating centrepiece, ensuring that it remains as practical as an actual mirror.
Can Jharokha be combined with other wall décor pieces?
You choose to pair up a Jharokha with other decor pieces or use it as a standalone decorative item depending on your personal preferences and the overall design theme of your house. Combining it with complementary wall decor can create a visually appealing ensemble, which adds a unique character to your interior.