Narsinghgarh: Malwa's Kashmir & A Haven for Art & History Buffs
Narsinghgarh, the 'Kashmir of Malwa', is a captivating tourist destination in Madhya Pradesh. This enchanting town is not only known for its scenic beauty but also for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. It was here that the first Indian color film, 'Aan', was shot in 1952, and more recently, scenes from the film 'Stree 2' were also filmed.
Narsinghgarh was established in 1681 by Dewan Parasram and is home to several notable temples, including the Narsingh Dev Temple and the ancient Topila Mahadeo Temple. The town is also famous for its association with celebrated singer Ustad Rajab Ali Khan, who was born here and had a disciple named Ustad Amir Khan. Madhav Das, a noted painter from the Malwa School of Arts, has a collection of works called Rag Ragini, which is a testament to the town's artistic legacy.
The Malwa School of Arts, now known as the Malwa School of Painting, is located in Narsinghgarh and is renowned for its vibrant colors and fine brushwork. The town's scenic landscape and mountains offer a grand treat to travelers, with the Baijnath Mahadeo temple being particularly vibrant in autumn, when the lakes have see-through water and the grass is lush and green. Narsinghgarh Fort, Parasram Sagar Lake, and Goughati were used as shooting locations for the film 'Aan' in 1952, further adding to the town's cinematic history.
As Madhya Pradesh celebrates its Foundation Day amid drizzles and a chilly wind, marking the advent of winter, Narsinghgarh stands as a symbol of the state's rich cultural heritage and artistic prowess. With its scenic beauty, historical significance, and association with renowned artists, this town continues to charm visitors and filmmakers alike.