Page 5 - Jan-Mar 2015

VOL. 12 No. 1

Rani Ki Vav-Amazing Architecture

Stepwells have been a major feature of the Indian architectural landscape since time immemorial. Stepwells first appeared
nd
in India around 2 century AD. These structures became popular in the arid regions of Gujarat and Rajasthan where water
tables were very low. One such amazing stepwell is the Rani ki Vav in Patan, Gujarat. It is a marvellous piece of architecture
and has recently been included in the UNESCO list of world heritage sites in India.

The rani ki Vav was commissioned This stepwell is known for its proportionate architecture.
by Queen udayamati in the 11 it is also famous for the colonnades on the side walls
th
century. it was built by the queen of the well that are embellished with beautiful panels
in memory of her dead husband. depicting gods and goddesses and other themes from
hindu mythology.

There are seven levels of stairs
which lead to the main water This stepwell is 210 feet
tank. The rani ki Vav was long and 65 feet wide.
built as an inverted temple to The architectural style
highlight the sanctity of water. used for constructing
The well is oriented towards this well is called the
the east-west direction. Maru-gurjara style of
architecture.

The rani kiVav is one of the
oldest baolis in india. Most of the RANI kI vAv IN UNEScO LIST
sculptures are dedicated to lord
Vishnu in the form of Dashavatara. The rani ki Vav was included in the list of
The water accumulated in the world heritage sites in india by uNesCO
vav is known to have medicinal because it fulfils the following criteria:
properties.
it illustrates an example of artistic and
Ashika Sundriyal, X, Pine Hall School, technological excellence in stepwell
Dehradun
construction. it combines architectural
and artistic beauty with the functional role
of being a water tank and a structure which
is used for water storage and conservation.

ACtIVItY : WELL IN DANGER

Patan has been growing as an urban centre and the city is expanding towards the west which is where the stepwell is
located. This is, however, being checked in order to save the rani kiVav for the future generations.
is there any stepwell or baoli in your region which is facing a similar threat? Can you think of any steps to protect it?

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