Heritage-led development took center stage at Pravasi Rajasthani Diwas, where Mr. Sandip Nowlakha, Vice President of the Murshidabad Heritage Development Society, addressed delegates on “Havelis to Heritage: Unveiling the Legacy of Rajasthan’s Pioneering Entrepreneurs.” Drawing parallels between Rajasthan’s iconic havelis and Bengal’s historic homes, he highlighted the national relevance of preserving heritage while fostering economic sustainability.

Rajasthan has over a million havelis, many left neglected as owners migrated to cities like Kolkata. Bengal faces similar challenges with its rajbaris, kothis, and merchant houses. Mr. Nowlakha advocated adaptive reuse, transforming historic homes into museums of family history that preserve architecture as well as the entrepreneurial legacies of generations.

Citing successful restorations in Murshidabad, including Kathgola Palace, Bari Kothi, Jagat Seth’s House, and Nashipur Rajbari, he emphasised the economic potential of conservation-led development. Kathgola Palace alone attracts 1.2 million visitors annually, while Jagat Seth’s House and Nashipur Rajbari each welcome around 1 million visitors yearly. “Heritage conservation can generate sustained visitor interest, local employment, and economic activity without compromising historical integrity,” he noted.

Mr. Nowlakha stressed that Rajasthan’s havelis, as historical repositories, require sensitive interpretation rather than structural reinvention. With contemporary conservation practices and curated narratives, these properties can become living history spaces, encouraging cultural exchange and tourism while keeping shared heritage alive for future generations.

Pravasi Rajasthani Diwas also featured sessions on investment opportunities in education, healthcare, and tourism, highlighting the strategic role of cultural assets in development. The event saw participation from dignitaries including Shri Bhajan Lal Sharma, Chief Minister of Rajasthan; Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister of Culture; Smt. Diya Kumari, Deputy Chief Minister of Rajasthan; and Mr. Sundeep Bhutoria, Managing Trustee, Prabha Khaitan Foundation, Kolkata.