Dedicated heritage photographer Narayan Mandowara is preserving Bundi's historical stepwells and tourism through the cleanliness drives of Ramesht Yuva Mandal Sansthan. Through photography and community service, he continues to promote Bundi's rich heritage while inspiring citizens to protect and preserve their city.

Narayan Mandowara, a dedicated member of the Ramesht Yuva Mandal Sansthan, Bundi, is a passionate photographer who actively works to promote both Rajasthan Tourism and Bundi Tourism.

Since beginning his photography career in 1998, he has nurtured a deep love for capturing the rich heritage of his hometown. However, his artistic career was often accompanied by a deep sense of sorrow. Whenever he visited the ancient stepwells (baoris) and water reservoirs (kunds), he was heartbroken to see them neglected and filled with garbage. For years, he wandered alone, capturing the beauty of Bundi's forts and jungles while carrying an inner ache, wondering when the city's heritage would finally be cleaned, preserved, and given the respect it deserved.

This longing found an answer when he came across videos of the Ramesht Yuva Mandal Sansthan on social media. Deeply impressed by their grassroots efforts, he met the young members behind the organization and immediately joined their cause. Since then, he has actively participated in Shramdaan (voluntary labor), working alongside the team to clean numerous heritage sites.

He strongly believes that Bundi’s future lies in tourism. However, he points out that tourists visit the city to experience its living heritage, not its modern buildings. Therefore, he believes that the city does not need new constructions; instead, it needs better roads, meticulous cleanliness, and greater public awareness. He urges the people of Bundi to preserve and enhance their priceless heritage rather than pursuing unnecessary modern developments.

The impact of the organization's work has been remarkable. Narayan Mandowara recalls a proud moment when the team completely cleaned Nagar Sagar Kund, removing all the garbage and restoring the water to a condition clean enough for bathing. Seeing the members jump into the water and bathe brought immense joy to the public, proving that a united group can truly bring about meaningful change.

Beyond Nagar Sagar Kund, the team has successfully conducted cleaning drives at Raniji Ki Baori, Sukh Mahal, Jait Sagar Lake, Smriti Kunj, and Bhora Kund. Their relentless efforts align perfectly with the initiatives of the newly appointed District Collector, who has also been actively working on the ground to promote cleanliness. Narayan questions why the general public hesitates to join hands when the district administration itself is so actively involved, urging everyone to unite for the betterment of Bundi's tourism.

Born in Bundi, he discovered his passion for photography during his summer vacations at his maternal grandparents’ home in Keshorai Patan, where he spent hours sitting in a local photo studio. He completed his education up to the 12th grade before fully immersing himself in the art of photography.

Today, Narayan Mandowara possesses a vast and highly admired collection of historical photographs of Bundi dating back to 1998. What began as a commercial venture photographing weddings gradually evolved into a service-oriented mission. He shifted his focus entirely to heritage photography, dedicating his lens to preserving and promoting the city's rich heritage rather than merely treating photography as a source of income.

A major turning point in his life came when he connected with Mugdha Sinha, the then District Collector, who shared his deep passion for Bundi’s heritage. Under her guidance, he gained invaluable knowledge and developed a lasting attachment to the city's historical sites. Over the years, he has maintained strong professional relationships with all subsequent District Collectors, working alongside them to promote tourism.

As the official photographer for the district administration, he covers major government events, including Republic Day (26 January), Independence Day (15 August), Bundi Utsav, World Tourism Day, and Rajasthan Day. His unwavering dedication and commitment to keeping the city clean have earned him official recognition from the district administration on five occasions.

Joining the Ramesht Yuva Mandal has completely transformed his mindset. He admits that he once harbored negative thoughts about the condition of the city while photographing its neglected heritage sites. Today, surrounded by a dedicated and enthusiastic group of young volunteers who are always ready for Shramdaan (voluntary labor), his outlook has become entirely positive. Together, they are also coordinating with the Archaeological Department to ensure the restoration of the remaining neglected stepwells. He firmly believes that maintaining a positive attitude is essential, as negativity only hinders the good work being done.

Photographer Mandowara appeals to all the citizens of Bundi to step forward and take responsibility for their motherland. He believes that true service to the nation begins with serving the very soil where one is born. By keeping the city clean, preserving its rich heritage, and joining hands with organizations like the Ramesht Yuva Mandal Bundi, he is confident that Bundi's tourism will reach unprecedented heights. He concludes his message with a powerful call for unity and positivity, expressing his hope that Bundi's rich legacy will be preserved for generations to come.