Rani Ka Vav- A stepwell with Stories across each steps

History of Rani ka Vav:

Rani-ki-Vav, is present on the banks of River Saraswati. It was constructed by Rani Udaymati in memory of her late husband, King Bhima 1, of the Chalukya dynasty that existed between 950 and 1300 AD. It is believed that this Stepwell was built in the 11th century. Stepwells’ were built in the Indian subcontinent from the 3^rd century BC as a subterranean water resource and storage. Some of you would have read my previous blog on Agrasen’s Stepwell in modern-day Delhi wherein I reflected on this point

Digressing a bit it is believed that the sacred Saraswati river disappeared due to climate and tectonic changes. Some experts believe that the river is still flowing under the waterbed in the Thar desert and its Himalayan connection is still present. However, looking at the barren river bed I pondered if we humans are somehow connected to this devastation! No proof, but my mind kept reflecting on it for some time.

The Rani Ki Vav stepwell is believed to have been buried underground owing to a severe flood in the Saraswati river. It was resurrected after decades of painstaking clearance and restoration by the Archaeological Survey of India. In 1958 this structure was first identified and later in late late 1980’s the actual excavation and restoration work was started. Due to this magnificent efforts we get a glimpse of this wonderful structure and feel proud of our traditional architectural prowess

Why should we visit Rani Ka Vav?

My tryst with Rani Ka Vav started in late 2018 when my colleague- Janak Barot shared pictures of this magnificent stepwell that simply took my breath away. I will always be grateful to him for enlightening me about this town and that added this stepwell to my travel bucket list.

I was about to travel in 2020, but, Covid 19 pandemic hit us with all might, derailing my travel plans. It took me quite some time, to execute this plan and finally on 31st Dec 2022 I started my voyage to Patan from Ahmedabad. It was a sunny winter day and the weather was just perfect for exploration. I started the day with a first stopover at Modhera Sun Temple, which left me speechless by its sheer grandeur. Well, I had no idea what was in store for me later in the day. I guess this was the best day of 2022 that I could have asked for!

On reaching my destination I parked my vehicle secured my tickers and walked through a beautiful lawn towards Rani-ki-Vav. There is no doubt that this stepwell was built at the height of craftsmen’s ability in stepwell construction. Built on the Maru-Gujarat architectural style ensures a visitor goes home contended and delighted.

There were Chambers built in the Rani Ki Vav for the royal families to rest in the summer months. The water from the Well acted as the natural air conditioner by decreasing the heat and making the breeze cool. The archaeologists are now thinking of excavating the nearby area as they believe the presence of Palaces and Royal residences in the vicinity.

Believe it or not, Rani Ka Vav is designed as an inverted temple highlighting the sanctity of water. The inverted design is clearly visible if viewed from the top of the Stepwell, preferably from the back side. it is divided into seven levels of stairs with sculptural panels of high artistic quality. More than 800 principal sculptures out of which about half of them can be seen today. There are over a thousand minor structures too combining religious, mythological and secular imagery, often referencing literary works. The main theme is the Dasavatar of Vishnu, in various forms like Lord Rama, Krishna, Narsimha, Vaman etc

The fourth level of the Stepwell is the deepest and leads into a rectangular tank 9.5 m by 9.4 m, at a depth of 23 m. The well is located at the westernmost end of the property and consists of a shaft 10 m in diameter and 30 m deep.

It is believed that there is a 30 metre long tunnel at the last step that opens up to the town of Sidhpur. This tunnel was built as an escape route during war or invasions. It is currently kept closed to avoid any kind of mishap

There are a lot of medicinal plants in and around the area and the local believes that the water had medicinal properties for various ailments. If only the River Saraswati would have been flowing it would have kept the stepwell filled to the brink and I would have surely taken a dip!

At present time we tend to see everything from the display of our mobile phone rather than our own eyes. Let me forewarn that a lot would be missed if this approach is chosen by visitors. It would be a great idea to sit over and observe various places inside the Stepwell as every nook and corner will throw a surprise.The recommendedd duration is 1 hour and thus make the best of it. Have a great Trip

In case you need more information please feel free to drop an email at journey@metrotter.com