Rehabilitation of the Hindu stepwells in India
A source of water and social interaction
For centuries, the stepwells of Rajasthan were used for drinking, washing and bathing, as well as
festivals and sacred rituals. Today, they are unusable. Drought dried up the wells and subsequent
flash floods damaged and polluted them with garbage, sand and mud. (India has one of the world’s
highest rates of recurring natural disasters such as floods, storms, droughts and earthquakes.) If no
immediate action is taken, the Rajasthan stepwells will soon be beyond repair. Not only would a
functional and beautiful part of Indian heritage perish, but the rituals linked to these wells would also
disappear.
Stepwells are wells or ponds in which monsoon rainwater is collected as a dependable, year-round
water source. Stepwell construction in the south western regions of India began as early as 600CE
and peaked between the 11th and 16th centuries. Stepwells were first a Hindu art form and were later
popularised under Muslim rule. Many have ornamentation comparable to ornate Hindu temples.
Today, stepwells’ function as a source of potable water is of great importance. There is an acute
water shortage in Rajasthan; local women must walk for miles to fetch water, a problem that
operative stepwells would solve.
This project will support the rehabilitation of the Rajasthan stepwells so that they may continue to
fulfil their practical function, be a source of pride and encourage the ritualistic activities that would
otherwise cease to exist.
Where:
Rajasthan, India
When:
Starting up
Who:
Society for Rural Development
Budget:
35.000,- euro