Native Life in Bundi

Home movie snapshots of street life in Rajasthan, courtesy of Colonel George Craster

The Craster family home movies offer a fascinating portrait of regal Rajasthan in the 1930s as well as a charming snapshot of filmmaker George and daughter Mary at home in Jotwara (Jhotwara). This film juxtaposes scenes of street life in Bundi, footage of the palace and scenes of the bazaar. It's followed by shots of the family at their residence in Jotwara and a polo match featuring Hamut Singh, one of the best players.

Colonel George Craster had a long and distinguished career in the Indian Army and was first commissioned in 1898. He retired in 1930 and became Chief Staff Officer of Jaipur State from 1931-35 where these films were taken.