Chhatris or commemorative monuments tell us a lot about the people who commissioned them- their perceived identity, aesthetic ideals, and the legacy they would like to leave behind.

Fascinating as these Chattris in Dhar, Madhya Pradesh are, the most interesting was how stone was use to mimic glass and mosaics in the decorative scheme. This shows an awareness of architecture and styles beyond their own kingdom, the influence of Europe and interest in various materials!