Ponds and stepwells sleeping in the lap of the past: Not just water, but a treasure trove of stories
If we consider ponds and stepwells as mere places to store water, then perhaps we are not doing them justice. These are not just water sources but living witnesses of stories, mysteries, traditions, and folklore of centuries. Old ponds and stepwells are those pages of the book of history on which the drops of time have fallen. Now when we are facing a water crisis, the importance of these ancient water sources increases even more. If we revive stepwells and ponds again instead of relying on modern tankers and borewells, then perhaps the coming generations will also praise us (and perhaps create their own new stories sitting on the banks of the ponds). Ponds and stepwells have been an integral part of our historical and cultural landscape. They were not only means of water storage but were also associated with the collective life, art, architecture, and spiritual activities of the society. In today’s times, the water crisis has become a serious problem. Climate change, uncontrolled urbanization, and excessive exploitation of groundwater have affected the availability of water. In such a situation, the revival and preservation of ancient water structures, such as ponds and stepwells, has become extremely necessary. Ponds and stepwells have been part of the wonderful water management system of our ancestors. Given the current water crisis, their revival and preservation should be our priority. This will not only help in increasing water availability but will also save our cultural heritage. If we make collective efforts, these historical water sources can be revived and water conservation can be ensured for future generations.
—Dr. Satyawan Saurabh
The ponds and stepwells, which are etched in the memories of the past, were not just water sources but also symbols of cultural, social and spiritual heritage. These water structures were an important part of the water management system of ancient Indian society, reminding us of the wisdom of our ancestors and their respect for the environment. Ponds used to be the centre of life in villages and towns. They were used for rainwater harvesting, agricultural irrigation, quenching the thirst of cattle and social gatherings. Temples, ghats and dharamshalas were built on the banks of ponds, where people came to seek spiritual peace. In many places, these ponds also became the centre of festivals and fairs. In ancient India, water was not just considered a resource but a revered element. Therefore, a scientific and artistic approach was adopted to conserve water sources. Kings, queens, social workers and temple committees constructed ponds and stepwells on a large scale. Their purpose was to promote water conservation as well as social prosperity and spiritual peace. If you sit near old ponds and pay attention, you will feel the turmoil of history in their waves. These used to be the life of villages and cities. In villages, elders would tell stories, children would play and women would get lost in the depths of their stories while filling water. These were not just water structures, but were the most important centers of social interaction.
Stepwells were a particularly fine example of architecture. They were constructed in such a way that the water remained cool even in the summer season. Stepwells built in Rajasthan and Gujarat still remain a center of attraction due to their intricate carvings, arches, pillars and sculptures. Stepwells (step wells) were especially popular in western and central India. Many ancient stepwells can be seen in Rajasthan, Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh, whose architecture was amazing. These were not only a means of water storage, but also served as a place to sit in cool shade in summer and a resting place for travelers. Among the famous stepwells, Chand Bawdi (Abhneri, Rajasthan) and Rani ki Vav (Patan, Gujarat) are famous for their unique beauty. Ponds and stepwells were important means of water storage and groundwater recharge. In this era of climate change and water crisis, if we revive these traditional water sources, it will not only help in increasing the groundwater level but will also help in reducing problems like floods. Due to modern urbanization and increasing neglect, many ponds and stepwells have dried up or have become victims of encroachment. Many water sources are filled with dirt and garbage, which is not only losing their historical importance but also has a negative impact on the environment. The government and local communities should jointly clean up old water sources. Concrete legal policies should be made for the conservation of traditional water sources. Community efforts should be encouraged in villages and cities so that people take an active part in preserving these heritages. These historical sites can be developed as tourist centers, so that people understand their importance and are inspired to conserve them.
Currently, many cities and villages are facing water shortages. Groundwater levels are falling rapidly because rainwater is not being harvested properly. If ponds and stepwells are revived, they can help replenish groundwater, which will keep the water level of rivers and wells balanced. Many areas face floods due to excessive rainfall, while other areas face drought. If traditional water sources are conserved, rainwater can be stored and used during droughts. Also, it can become an effective drainage system. Ponds and stepwells are not only a source of water but also help maintain the local ecosystem. These water bodies are the natural habitat of birds, fish, and other aquatic creatures. If they are revived, biodiversity can also be preserved. Ancient stepwells and ponds are not only water structures, but they are also an important part of our cultural heritage. Today, many stepwells and ponds are neglected or filled with garbage. These can be cleaned and developed as tourist spots so that their historical and cultural identity is maintained. If ponds and stepwells are reused, rural and urban communities will get direct benefit from it. They will be able to avoid water crises in agriculture, animal husbandry, and daily life. For this, participation of local people will also have to be ensured so that they themselves take responsibility for their conservation.
Ponds and stepwells are evidence of the foresight and efficient water management system of our ancestors. If we revive them, it will be beneficial for the environment, society, and economy. We should learn from our past and make water conservation our priority so that future generations can also benefit from these wonderful structures. In today’s time, many ponds and stepwells have dried up or are filled with dirt due to neglect. In view of the increasing impact of urbanization and the water crisis, revival of these traditional water sources has become necessary. In many places, people and organizations are trying to revive these structures. Ponds and stepwells are the heritage of our past, which gives us important lessons on water conservation and community life. Their conservation can help in preserving our cultural heritage as well as dealing with the water crisis for future generations.
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– Dr. Satyawan Saurabh,
Poet, freelance journalist and columnist, radio and TV panelist,
333, Fairy Garden, Kaushalya Bhawan, Barwa (Siwani) Bhiwani,
Haryana—127045, Mobile: 9466526148, 01255281381
