JDH Urban Regeneration Project 2016
Co-founded by Motherland and the RAAS Group, JDH is an Urban Regeneration Project that is restoring the Walled City of Jodhpur to its former glory, breathing new life into its invaluable landmarks and livelihoods. The creative forces of design, technology, fashion and culture have begun to converge on Jodhpur’s ancient and hallowed ground, revitalising its atmospheric gullies, havelis and bazaars. This transformation is being driven by local insights and expertise, as well as the injection of new ideas, infrastructure and influences from all over the world. The result: a living, breathing work of art in progress.
JDH is a part of Blue City Hospitality Pvt. Ltd. It is not a conventional business model, rather, it is a social enterprise that aims to preserve Jodhpur’s historical traditions and legacies. JDH is a privately funded company with investments from H.H. Maharaja Gaj Singh II of Jodhpur, Jonathan Boyer & Nicholas Allan (investors in the RAAS group of hotels), Anita Lal of Good Earth, and Alexander Wade.
Project Inception: The Stepwell (Toorji Ka Jhalra) Restoration
Established in January 2015, JDH used private investment and ideas to clean up public spaces which were no longer viable due to congestion, litter and neglect. A Public-Private model was used to integrate a set of investors, the state government and a highly supportive local community. By July 2017, a small section of the Walled City was completely transformed. At its epicentre was ‘Toorji Ka Jhalra’ – a public stepwell that was restored to its original state. Over 300 tractor-trolley loads of debris were removed, and extensive sandblasting and oxygenation was carried out under the guidance of a team of restoration experts. The public responded by thronging to the area and making it the second most popular spot for locals and tourists in Jodhpur, as ranked by Trip Advisor.
This small step was the starting point of a much more important movement. JDH began to create ‘zones of renewal’ throughout the city and map them on an axis of regeneration. These zones are a mix of project-supported, locally-owned, project-owned, project-leased and government-owned. The project continues to expand, but the fundamental mission remains the same – renewing the Walled City, while protecting the rich history and heritage of Jodhpur.
Stepwell Square – Retail, F&B and Public Spaces
The Stepwell Square in the Walled City is the first of JDH’s zones of renewal. With the restoration of the Stepwell at the epicenter, JDH added a new commercial layer to this part of the Walled City. By placing some of India's finest fashion and lifestyle brands and creating a hub of eateries, the Stepwell Square has quickly evolved into a profitable business ecosystem and a melting pot of culture for tourists and locals alike.
The Maharaja Sumer Grain Market (WIP)
A few minutes away from the Stepwell Square is a 19th century ‘Bourse’ that is still operative. This vital part of Jodhpur’s heritage is set to be converted into a fully functioning farmer’s market that will support local producers, complemented by an Art Deco restaurant, cafés and local street food vendors that will bring in visitors and additional revenue streams.
Gulab Sagar Ki Haveli
Part of JDH’s expansion plan, this site borders the Gulab Sagar lake, which is presently undergoing restoration. A yoga studio started operations in late 2018, and more activities will follow in 2020.
Highlights 2019
RED BULL CLIFF DIVING AT THE STEPWELL SQUARE NOV 2019
TO COMMEMORATE JODHPUR’S STATUS AS THE CRADLE OF INDIAN AVIATION, JDH & RAAS HOSTED THE IWC SILVER SPITFIRE IN NOV 2019
