About Us
About Us
The Para Villas, where our family’s values of service, passion, and sustainability come to life. Nestled in an 86-year-old property steeped in history and charm, our villas blend timeless architecture with eco-conscious living.
Surrounded by over 20 flourishing teak trees and a bounty of fruit trees including mango, guava, mulberry, papaya, and lemon, our estate is a green sanctuary. Committed to sustainability, we practice rainwater harvesting and power our operations with solar energy.
Our villas reflect the elegance of traditional architecture, featuring stone flooring and stone-laden roofs. Much of the furniture is crafted from teak wood sourced sustainably from trees that naturally dried or aged over the years.
To truly experience the charm of The Para Villas, it’s essential to know the story behind it. This serene retreat began its journey in 1938 when the property was purchased by the visionary Thakur Lal Singh Ji Shaktawat, A leader, reformer, and philanthropist, he laid the foundation of a legacy rooted in service and sustainability.
Today, the property is lovingly managed by Colonel Bhishm Kumar Shaktawat, a decorated war veteran with 33 years of service in the Indian Army, and his daughter Archana Shaktawat, a renowned Psychologist, author, TEDx Speaker and Trainer. Together, they have transformed this 86-year-old ancestral home into The Para Villas, blending heritage with modern eco-conscious practices.
A Heritage of Leadership and Philanthropy
Col. Shaktawat’s ancestral property, now transformed into The Para Villas, was purchased in 1938 by his grandfather, Thakur Lal Singh Ji Shaktawat, a decorated government officer and a visionary leader.
Thakur Lal Singh Ji held the esteemed position of Deputy Speaker of the Mewar State Assembly, the first in its history (1952–1957), and later served as a Member of the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly (1957–1962). A stalwart in social reform and education, he founded several impactful institutions, including:
Meera Mandir Samiti, Chittorgarh – Promoting cultural and spiritual heritage. Geeta Ramayan Seva Sangh, Udaipur – Advocating for moral and spiritual growth.
Shri Lal Singh Shaktawat Vidyarthi Shiksha Trust – Uplifting educational standards and supporting students. Bharatiya Sankranti Seva Sangh, Udaipur – Focused on welfare initiatives and community service.
Thakur Lal Singh Ji’s legacy of leadership and service continues to inspire generations, and Col. Shaktawat honors this heritage through his ventures. A Legacy Rooted in Valor, Service, and Heritage
Colonel Bhishm Kumar Shaktawat embodies the ethos of the Indian Army with unparalleled dedication and distinction. Over his illustrious 33-year military career, he devoted 21 years to the prestigious 10 Para Commandos, now known as Special Forces, the elite unit of the Indian Army.Beyond his illustrious military career, Col. Shaktawat is also the proud custodian of a rich ancestral legacy that speaks of service to the nation and society.
A Decorated Military Career
Col. Bhishm Kumar Shaktawat’s military journey began at Sainik School, Chittorgarh, and later at the Officers’ Training Academy, Chennai, where he graduated as a merit-list officer. Volunteering for the Para Commandos, he earned the revered Maroon Beret and became part of India’s most elite Special Forces.
Colonel Bhishm Kumar Shaktawat’s military career reached a defining moment during Operation Pawan (1987–1990), India’s peacekeeping initiative in Sri Lanka. This operation aimed to secure the region of Jaffna from the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), a separatist group notorious for its guerrilla warfare tactics and recognized as one of the first terrorist organizations in the world.
As part of the elite 10 Para Commandos, Col. Shaktawat and his unit played a pivotal role in this mission. The operation was marked by fierce battles, high stakes, and the challenge of navigating an unfamiliar and hostile terrain. For three continuous years, from the beginning to the conclusion of the conflict, Col. Shaktawat served on the frontlines, exemplifying bravery, leadership, and resilience.
Reflecting on this intense period, Col. Shaktawat recalls it as a profound experience of war, etched with memories of camaraderie, acts of valor, and immense sacrifice. The unit faced tremendous challenges and suffered the loss of officers and soldiers, whose bravery and dedication were posthumously honored.
For his exceptional service and gallantry during the operation, Col. Shaktawat was awarded a Mention in Dispatches, a recognition of his courage and tactical brilliance. He also received commendation letters from the Chief of Army Staff and the Southern Army Commander, further highlighting his contributions to one of India’s most challenging military operations.
Operation Pawan remains a testament to the valor of the Indian Army, and Col. Shaktawat’s unwavering commitment to his nation stands as a shining example of the spirit of the 10 Para Commandos.
Colonel Bhishm Kumar Shaktawat proudly belongs to the prestigious Maroon Beret—the hallmark of India’s elite Paratrooper’s Unit. Over his illustrious career, he has completed an astounding 105 para jumps, many of which were in war zones and high-stakes environments where paratroopers are air-dropped into challenging terrains.
His jumps, often from heights exceeding 10,000 feet, were not just military operations but also remarkable feats of courage, skill, and precision. Each leap was a calculated risk, a blend of adrenaline and discipline that only a seasoned paratrooper could master.
Even now, at the age of 74, Col. Shaktawat’s adventurous spirit remains undiminished. Ask him, and he’ll eagerly express his readiness for another jump, his eyes lighting up as he reminisces about the unforgettable moments in the sky—freefalling through clouds, feeling the wind’s embrace, and the thrill of touching down in uncharted zones. For him, every jump is a vivid memory, a testament to his lifelong dedication to adventure and service.
The Indian Army offers its officers and soldiers countless opportunities for adventure, and Colonel Bhishm Kumar Shaktawat made the most of every single one.
Scaling New Heights: A Mountaineer's Tale
Colonel Bhishm Kumar Shaktawat’s journey as a mountaineer is a testament to his resilience, strength, and indomitable spirit. Thanks to the adventurous opportunities provided by the Indian Army, he embarked on several challenging expeditions, conquering some of the most formidable peaks of India.
In 1981, as part of a Para Commando Expedition, Col. Shaktawat climbed Nanda Devi, towering at 6,500 meters. This iconic peak, now closed to climbers due to security concerns, remains one of his proudest achievements.
In 1978, he summited Kinnaur Kailash, standing at 6,050 meters, another milestone of grit and perseverance. Additionally, in 1980, Col. Shaktawat participated in a joint expedition with the British Army, scaling the challenging Mulkila IV peak, which also reaches an impressive 6,500 meters.
These expeditions were undertaken during a time when mountaineering was largely unknown to the common man, making his adventures even more extraordinary. The stories of his climbs—of icy terrains, unpredictable weather, and the sheer determination it took to reach the summits—are both awe-inspiring and deeply humbling.
For Col. Shaktawat, these expeditions were not just about conquering mountains but about pushing the limits of human endurance and embracing the adventure-filled life the Army prepared him for. Each peak he climbed stands as a monument to his resilience, courage, and passion for exploration.
Diving into the Depths: An Underwater Odyssey
A certified scuba diver, he has explored the breathtaking underwater worlds of the Andaman and Lakshadweep islands, diving into the depths with the same fearless spirit he carried throughout his military career.
For Col. Shaktawat, 
these experiences were not just about adventure but about cultivating the resilience, courage, and fighting spirit that the armed forces instill in every individual. He credits his time in the Army for shaping him into the steadfast and determined person he is today.
A firm believer in the values of the Para Commandos, he lives by the famous adage:
“Men apart, every man an emperor”—a tribute to the unmatched heroism of paratroopers during World War II. This ethos defines his journey, reflecting a life of extraordinary bravery, unwavering commitment, and an indomitable will to conquer any challenge, both on and off the battlefield.
Life Beyond Uniform
After retiring from active service, Col. Shaktawat ventured into entrepreneurship by founding Pratap Security Services, providing specialized security solutions at toll plazas.
Upholding his commitment to his heritage, he has revitalized his ancestral property as The Para Villas, a homestay that reflects his military legacy and familial pride. Managed by his daughter, Archana Shaktawat a renowned Psychologist, author, TEDx Speaker and Trainer, the homestay offers a tranquil retreat in the heart of Udaipur, welcoming families and couples to unwind amidst the serene beauty of the City of Lakes.
A True Patriot and Visionary
Known for his insatiable thirst for knowledge, Col. Shaktawat is an avid reader, an enthusiastic traveler, and affectionately called a “walking encyclopedia” by his daughter. His life is a testament to the transformative power of discipline, courage, and service, inspiring many to pursue a life of adventure, action, and impact.
Col. Bhishm Kumar Shaktawat’s journey is not just a story of a decorated soldier but also a beacon of leadership and legacy. His life continues to inspire and embody the ideals of valor, service, and an unyielding commitment to the nation.