Adalaj ni vav history in gujarati language post:17.02.2024 at 18:14

Adalaj ni vav history in gujarati language

 
adalaj ni vav history in gujarati language adalaj ni vav history in gujarati language

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Adalaj ni vav history in gujarati language/

Adalaj Stepwell

Building in Gandhinagar, India

Adalaj Stepwell or Rudabai Stepwell is a stepwell located in the small town of Adalaj, close to Gandhinagar city in the Indianstate of Gujarat. It was built in 1498 in the memory of Rana Veer Singh (the Vaghela dynasty of Dandai Des) by his wife, Queen Rudadevi.

Introduction to stepwells[edit]

Main article: stepwell

While in Gujarati and Marwari language, the stepwell is called a vav (leading down to the level of water), in other Hindi-speaking regions of North India, it is known as a baoli (also spelt, 'bawdi', 'bawri' and 'bavadi').[1]

Step wells like the one in Adalaj were once integral to the semi-arid regions of Gujarat, as they provided water for drinking, washing, and bathing. These wells were also venues for colorful festivals and sacred rituals.[2][3][4][5]

Stepwells, also called stepped ponds, built between the 5th and 19th centuries, are common in Western India; over 120 such wells are reported in the semi-arid region of Gujarat alone, of which the well at Adalaj is one of the most popular. Stepwells are also found in more arid regions of the Indian subcontinent, extending into Pakistan to collect rainwater during seasonal monsoons. While many such structures are utilitarian in construction, they sometimes include significant architectural embellishments, as in the Adalaj stepwell, which attracts many tourists. In the past, these stepwells were frequented by travelers and caravans as stopovers along trade routes.[2][4][5][6]

India's first rock-cut stepwells are dated from 200-400 AD. Subsequently, the wells at Dhank (550-625) and construction of stepped ponds at Bhinmal (850-950) took place.[7]

The city of Mohenjo-daro has wells, which may be the predecessor of the step well; as many as 700 wells have been discovered in just one section of the city, leading scholars to believe that cylindrical brick lined wells were invented by the people of the Indus Adalaj ni vav history in gujarati language civilization.[2][4][8] Between third and second millennium BC, at the "Great Bath", at the site of Mohenjodaro of the Harappan civilization, filling of water was achieved from a large well located in one of the rooms in front of the open courtyard of the building–complex.[9]

While early stepwells were made of stone, later step wells were made of mortar, stucco, rubble, and laminar stones. The well cylinder was the basic form used to deepen the wells. It is also inferred that the Stepwells in Gujarat have survived so long because of the builder's knowledge of the soil conditions and the earthquake proneness of the region.[10]

The well size recommended, based on considerations of stability, was of four to thirteen hasta ('hasta' a Sanskrit word, which means "forearm" of size adalaj ni vav history in gujarati language from 12–24 inches (300–610 mm)), A size of eight hasta was considered ideal, and a 13 hasta well was considered dangerous. However, the well adalaj ni vav history in gujarati language from top to bottom remained generally uniform.[11] By the 11th century, the stepwell planning and design acquired architectural excellence and the Hindu Stepwells were standardized.[12]

History[edit]

The Adalaj stepwell or 'Vav', as it is called in Gujarati, is intricately carved and is five stories deep. It was built in 1498. An inscription in Sanskrit establishes the history of the Adalaj stepwell found on a marble slab positioned in a recess on the first floor, from the eastern entry to the well. Its construction was started by Rana Veer Singh of the Vaghela dynasty of Dandai Desh, who built it in traditional architectural style, in 1499.[5][13][14]

The Sanskrit inscription in the stepwell describes,[15]

"Samvat 1555 (1498 AD), month of Magha.

"Salutation to Vinayaka (Ganesha) to whose race belonged King Mokala, chief adalaj ni vav history in gujarati language the country of Dandahi. From him was born Karna. Mahipaand Virsinh and Naisha were the sons of Mahipa. Virsinh's queen, whose name is Rooda, has constructed this well.

"It is dedicated at this time – when the sun is in the north, the month is Magha, the bright half (Shukla Paksha), the 5th day, the day of the week, Wednesday, the lunar mansion – Uttara, Karana-Bava, the yoga – Siddhi."

Then follows a glowing eac vave sensor altima 2001 of the well, after which the queen, or rather lady of the chief, is praised in a few verses; the expense is stated at 5,00,111 tankas or over five lakhs, and the whole ends with a repetition of the date as given above.[15]

The cultural and architectural depiction in the deep wells at various levels are a tribute to the history of step wells, built by Hindus.[4]

Legend[edit]

As per legend the 15th century, Rana Veer Singh of the Vaghela dynasty, a Hindu ruler, reigned over this territory known as Dandai Desh. His kingdom was a small one. It was subject to water shortage and was highly dependent on the rains. To alleviate the misery of his people, the Rana began the construction of a large and deep stepwell.

Before this project could be completed, his kingdom was attacked by Mohammed Begda, the Muslim ruler of a neighbouring kingdom. The Rana king was killed in battle, and Mohammed Begda occupied his territory. Rana Veer Singh's widow, a beautiful lady, known as Rani Roopba (or Roodabai), wanted to perform Sati and join her adalaj ni vav history in gujarati language in the afterlife. However, Begada prevented her from giving up her own life and proposed marriage with the dowager.

She agreed to a marriage proposal on the condition that he would first complete the building of the stepwell. The Muslim king, who was deeply enamored of the queen's adalaj ni vav history in gujarati language, agreed to the proposal and built the well in record time. Once the adalaj ni vav history in gujarati language was completed, Begda reminded the queen of her promise to marry him. Instead, the queen who had achieved her objective of completing the stepwell started by her husband decided to end her life. She circumambulated the stepwell with prayers and jumped into the well, ending the saga of building the well in tragedy.[5][14]

One version, which is narrated in the 200 years old scriptures of the Swaminarayan sect, suggests that before she died, Rani Roopba requested religious saints to take a bath in this stepwell so that the water in the stepwell gets purified by eac vave sensor altima 2001 saints, thereby delivering her from her sins.

Another is linked to the tombs found near the well. The graves of six masons who built the well are seen near the Vav. Begda asked the Masons if they could make another similar well, and when they agreed, Begda sentenced them to death instead. Begda was so impressed by the architectural excellence of the stepwell that he did not want a replica to be built.[5]

Structure[edit]

Built-in sandstone in the Solanki architectural style, the Adalaj stepwell is adalaj ni vav history in gujarati language stories deep. It is octagonal in a plan at the top, built on an intricately carved large number of pillars. Each floor is spacious enough to provide for people to congregate.[5] It was dug deep to access groundwater at that level, accounting for seasonal fluctuations in water level due to rainfall over the years. The air and light vents in the roofs at various floors and the landing level are in the form of large openings. From the first story level, three staircases lead to the bottom water level of the well, which is considered a unique feature. Built along a north-south axis, the entrance is from the south, and the three staircases are from the south, west, and east directions leading to the landing, which is on the northern side of the well. Four small rooms with oriel windows decorated with minutely carved brackets are provided at the landing level, at the four corners. The structural system is typically Indian with traditional trabeate with horizontal beams and lintels. At adalaj ni vav history in gujarati language bottom of the well is a square stepped floor in the shape of a funnel extending to the lowest plane. This ace vav wooyoung chiseled into a circular well. Above the square floor, columns, beams, walls, and arched openings spiral around, a feature that continues to the top. However, the top part of the well is a vertical space open to the sky. The four corners of the square are strengthened with stone beams, set at 45 degrees angle.[2]

The motifs of flowers and graphics of architecture blend very well with the symbols of Hindu and Jain gods carved at various levels of the well. The dominant carvings on the upper floors are of elephants (3 inches (76 mm) in size, each of a different design). The walls are carved with women performing daily chores such as churning of buttermilk, adorning themselves, scenes of the performance of dancers and musicians, and the King overlooking all these activities.[3][5][6][13][14]

An interesting depiction carved from a single block of stone is of the Ami Khumbor (symbolic pot of the water of life) and the Kalp Vriksha (a tree of life). Also seen is a fresco of navagraha or nine planets. These depictions are said to attract villagers for worship during marriage and other ritualistic ceremonies.[3][5]

The temperature inside the well is about five degrees lower than the outside hot summer temperatures. This encouraged the women who came to fetch water to spend more time in the cool climes here. They stayed to worship the gods and goddesses and gossip.[3][5]

A tribute paid to the rich underground structures, which are adalaj ni vav history in gujarati language decorated with sculptures, is that they are said to resemble palaces.[1]

Tourist information[edit]

The Adalaj stepwell is a popular tourist attraction of the Gandhinagar city and is situated 18 kilometres (11 mi) north of Ahmedabad city.[6] It is 5 kilometres (3.1 mi) from Gandhinagar, the capital city of Gujarat.[5]

Ahmedabad is well connected by road, rail, and air links with the rest of the country. The international airport at Ahmedabad, the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Airport, has flights operating to several countries. Gandhinagar is the railway station closest to the stepwell.[3]

See also[edit]

References[edit]

Bibliography[edit]

External links[edit]

One of the highlights of visiting Gujarat is exploring adalaj ni vav history in gujarati language many ancient stepwells or Vavs. The most popular in Ahmedabad being the Adalaj Stepwell, known locally as Adalaj Ni Vav.

This ancient stepwell was built all the way back in the 15th-century and showcases some of the finest carving work in the region. 

But, as well as the stunning craftsmanship attracting visitors, this place is also connected to a vava 4k laser projector deals touching and tragic love story as well! 

Although it’s now over 500 years old, it’s been beautifully preserved underground and so this water temple appears as new and transports you back in time. 

It’s well worth planning a visit while you’re in the UNESCO World Heritage City. 

Here’s a complete guide for visiting the Adalaj Stepwell with the legend, new entry fee, how to visit and what to look out for! 

Adalaj Stepwell Ahmedabad Gujarat

First up, what is a Vav in Gujarat? 

A Vav in Gujarat in a stepwell, the word comes from the Gujarati Language. Also called a water temple, this involves a series of steps that lead down to a well of water.

Stepwells have different names around the country. In the North of India they will commonly have the name Baoli from the Hindi Language, like in Delhi. Or, in Rajasthan you may find they have the name Kund.

Out of all the Vavs in Ahmedabad, the Adalaj stepwell is by far the most famous. Even adalaj ni vav history in gujarati language you land in the airport, the whole arrivals hall is decorated like this very stepwell!

In total, there are 2 Vavs in Ahmedabad that have survived and adalaj ni vav history in gujarati language now protected by the Archaeological Survey of India as tourist attractions. The Adalaj Ni Vav and the Dada Harir Stepwell. 

Around Gujarat, there are thought to be 100 ancient stepwells that have survived the ages. There are also around 2000 historic stepwells in India that you can visit! 

Adalaj Ni Vav Octagonal Well

What were stepwells used for in India?

The dry landscape in the North of India often meant that there were many water shortages in cities years ago. 

So, to provide a solution, stepwells were built to collect water and acted adalaj ni vav history in gujarati language a reservoir for communities.

As the water source was something that everyone needed in the area, Baoli’s essentially brought people together!

This is where locals would meet to chat, seek shade from the heat, collect water to wash clothes and bathe. It was almost like a modern day community hall.

In Gujarat, these vav stepwells even went one step further and communities used them for religious rituals and festivals as well.

Related post – How to visit the Panna Meena Ka Kund stepwell in Jaipur 

Five levels of the Adalaj Stepwell

What is Adalaj Stepwell or Adalaj Ni Vav?

Adalaj Adalaj ni vav history in gujarati language Vav or the Rudubai Stepwell is an intricate 15th-century stepwell that’s located near the capital of Ahmedabad in Gujarat.

It’s hidden away in the small village of Adalaj in the Gandhinagar district, and it was built to commemorate Rana Veer Singh and his wife, Queen Roopba aka Queen Rudabai.

It’s considered to be one of the finest examples of Indian craftsmanship and made in the Solanki architectural style. It consists of five levels that have been made entirely of sandstone.

Like other stepwells throughout India, these levels were made large enough for locals to congregate, relax, gossip and socialise. 

The levels and pillars of Adalaj Stepwell

It’s said to reach as much as five degrees cooler down here then outside. So, it was a popular place to seek shade in the harsh summer months.

The staircase leads down towards an octagonal well with intricately designed pillars between each of the five levels. 

The carvings are a mix of Islamic influence as well as having symbols of Hindu and Jain gods. So, it’s really quite unique. 

As well as idols, there are carvings of women doing their daily chores, a tree of life and sacred animals like elephants. 

Another unique feature of this well is that it is the only stepwell with three sets of entrance stairs.

Apparently, a lot of ancient traders heading to Ahmedabad would use this place for shelter before there was such a thing as a hotel.

Adalaj Stepwell Gujarat India

The tragic legend of Adalaj Stepwell & its history

As well as the architecture being incredible and the main draw of this place, there is also a heartbreaking tale that goes hand in hand with this stepwell too. 

It’s almost like a Bollywood drama eac vave sensor altima 2001 elements adalaj ni vav history in gujarati language love, loyalty, betrayal and war! 

According to legend, the Adalaj stepwell was started by Rana Veer Singh, of the Vaghela dynasty, who was king of these lands in the 15th century. He was married to a beautiful queen or Rani named Roopba or Queen Rudabai.

His people needed a place to access water and so he started to build Adalaj Ni Vav stepwell for them.

Unfortunately, before he could finish, an Islamic King called Mehmud Begada waged war on his kingdom. 

Rana Veer Singh tragically fell in battle and Mehmud Begada took over the throne and so the stepwell could not be finished.

Inside the bottom of Adalaj Stepwell Gujarat Sati. An act of self-immolation to join their husbands in the afterlife. 

But, Mehmud Begada would not allow Queen Rudabai to perform Sati. Instead, he wanted to marry her! 

Queen Rudabai agreed to the marriage proposal on one condition; that Mehmud Begada would finish the Adalaj stepwell that her husband started.

As Mehmud Begada was so in love with this queen, he agreed and the stepwell was finally finished in 1499. 

He reminded the queen that his end of the bargain was complete and she had to marry him. 

But, instead of going through with the betrothal, Queen Rudabai climbed to the top of the stepwell and threw herself off the top ledge. Ultimately falling to her death to join her beloved husband and king. 

She never intended to marry Mehmud Begada at all, she only wanted her husband’s work and legacy to be finished. 

Despite this tragedy, Mehmud Begada kept Adalaj Ni Vav open for the people to mourn her and added some Islamic influence. It has survived to this day and is now a popular tourist attraction!

Related article – the haunted Agrasen Ki Baoli stepwell in Delhi

Adalaj stepwell Gujarat

Where is the Adalaj Stepwell located in Ahmedabad & how to get there?

Despite it being advertised as a Ahmedabad attraction, this gorgeous stepwell is actually located around 18 kilometres away from the centre of the city.

It’s in a small village called Adalaj and so you’ll need to organise some transport in order to reach it from the centre. 

As Gujarat is a state capital city, the transport options are endless! You could take one of the Gujarat City Buses to the stepwell or hire a shared or private auto-rickshaw to take you over there.

I visited for the opening time around 7.30 am to beat the crowds. So, knowing that Tuk-Tuks may not be as readily available at this time, I pre-ordered an Uber.

Yes, Ahmedabad has Uber and it’s really easy to use via your normal Uber app. Plus, you don’t get ripped off and it saves haggling. I paid around 200 rupees for a single journey to reach there.

Click here for my complete guide on using Indian Uber. I have a nice discount code inside for you if it’s your first ride. 

Adalaj Ni Vav Stepwell Ahmedabad Gujarat

Adalaj stepwell timings and entry fee in 2021

The stepwell is open from 7.30am – 6pm every day for visitors. 

Unlike pretty much every article I read about it, the entry to Adalaj stepwell is NOT FREE in 2021 any more guys. There is a charge now but it’s not expensive, especially if you’re a domestic tourist.

Due to this misinformation, I almost walked in expecting not to pay a penny. However, the guy at the tiny ticket booth near the entrance called me over to buy a ticket.

Domestic tourists or those from SAARC countries pay 25 rupees to enter the stepwell and foreigner’s pay 300 rupees for entry. 

Photography is permitted inside with no extra charge but drones are strictly prohibited. 

Adalaj Stepwell Entry Fee

Photography tips & things to know before visiting

  • If you want to take photos, I’d recommend getting here as soon as possible or for opening time. Even when I visited at 7.30am, I only got this place to myself for around adalaj ni vav history in gujarati language minutes. Then, a massive school group arrived! 
  • Tour groups, school kids, locals and tourists all gather here during the day. But, you can still get nice photos even with the crowds. Every inch of this stepwell is a delight to photograph. You’ll find the intricate architecture stunning.
  • As I was here alone, I had my tripod out for a while as no one stopped me with it on entry. But, then, I got told off by security guards – oops. There were no signs saying tripods weren’t allowed. So, keep this in mind.
  • A lot of parts of this stepwell are closed off to explore. They actually have camouflaged spikes on the walkways! If you wanted to go exploring a stepwell that has no limits, I’d recommend Dada Harir Stepwell in the city. Any part of that is free to walk on plus, it’s free entry. 
  • You don’t need to take your shoes off to explore the stepwell. But, if you enter any of the small nooks with idols, it’s respectful to do so. There is a temple nearby and priests visit here often. 
  • As well as exploring inside the stepwell, you can get an incredible view on the top level up above! Don’t miss it. This adalaj ni vav history in gujarati language you can look inside the octagonal well and see the famous ‘crystal blue water&rsquo.  But when I got here, the water was caged up and looked murky. Sigh.
  • This place is an amazing respite from the heat and the further you go down the cooler is gets. But, it’s also the home to pigeons and bats! So, you’ll see lots of poop and it may smell a bit strange.
Adalaj Stepwell Gujarat

What to expect on your visit

The Uber dropped me off at the drop point, adalaj ni vav history in gujarati language, I was totally lost when I arrived, being honest. 

The drop off point for the stepwell is at the Adalaj Ambe Mata Temple. So, I presumed I had to go through there. But, that’s not the case.

Luckily, there was a sign with directions of how to enter the Adalaj Rudubai Stepwell and it meant just walking around the outside of the temple to a small gateway. I passed lots of rubble, cows and bulls with huge horns chilling out on the road!

Enter through the gate barrier and you’ll come across the ticket booth at the entrance of the stepwell. Adalaj ni vav history in gujarati language managed by the Archaeological Survey of India, so it is an official ticket desk. 

The entrance to Adalaj Ni Vav Ahmedabad

Then, you take a short walk around and see the top of the stepwell. In order to access it, you need to take one of the stairways underground to enter the Vav!

Although you can walk around the top of the stepwell, it’s important to watch your step. But, in the riskiest areas, they have bars over the top so you don’t fall. 

Adalaj Stepwell Staircase

Exploring the different levels of Adalaj Ni Vav stepwell

As I arrived here really early in the morning, I had this place completely to eac vave sensor altima 2001. Despite the noisy traffic and horns of cars heading out of Ahmedabad. This water temple was a place of calm. 

It was only 7.30am, but even in November it was already getting hot. So, walking down the different levels of the stepwell was so refreshing!

Later, a priest arrived who was cleaning the temple and brushing away the dirt and rubbish. 

Despite it being over 500 years old, the fact that it’s been guarded underground and avoided weathering means it’s been fantastically maintained over the years. It looks almost brand new. 

Unlike Dada Harir Stepwell, there is not a wealth of places you can access inside the stepwell. 

You are not allowed to walk up the winding stairs of the Octagonal Vav anymore. Or really step on the levels. A lot of the levels have been closed off ace vav wooyoung spikes to stop accidents, or they were when I got here.

Adalaj Ni Vav Stepwell Gujarat
The bottom of Adalaj Ni Vav stepwell

You were only allowed to walk down the main staircase to the bottom of the well! Then, you made your way back up.

Personally, I fell in love with the first ‘level’ of the well which was like a sanctum. Here, you’ll find the most intricate carvings as well as little rooms with idols and a small alcove that looked like a balcony! 

It’s a stunning place to sit and relax a while admiring the architecture, carvings and symmetry that make up the well. 

Adalaj Stepwell sanctum
Girl inside Adalaj Stepwell Balcony

Things to look out for while you’re here

  • The Octagonal Vav – this can only be found by going down to the bottom of the stepwell. Although you cannot go inside you can still take a look up at the incredible architecture. Also, you can get a better look from up the top. People sometimes leave coins here.
  • Carvings – There are many intricate scenes beautifully displayed in the sandstone. You’ll find Islamic patterns as well as Hindu and Jain idols. This ties in nicely with the story about how this stepwell came to be. You’ll also see kings, scenes of ladies churning butter and dancing alongside musicians. 
Adalaj Stepwell Carving of the water of life

Ami Khumbor – This is a carving that has a pot with what looks like water coming out of it in all different direction. This pot contains the water of life. 

Kalp Vriksha – This is the tree of life. It is one of the finest pieces of work here carved out of a single piece of sandstone. 

Navagraha – This small frieze towards the edge of the wall represents nine planets. It is believed that this adalaj ni vav history in gujarati language the well and the people inside it from evil spirits. 

Carved Balcony – I’m not sure what this was used for. Maybe for ladies to relax in and gossip? Or, to sit while watching the stepwell outside. But, this little balcony with a window as stunning. A great photo opportunity too! 

Adalaj Stepwell Balcony carved in sandstone

Looking for more things to do in Ahmedabad? 

Ahmedabad was one of my favourite cities to visit in India, especially because it was filled with culture and history! It’s recently been declared a UNESCO World Heritage City.

You could visit the other amazing stepwell here called Dada Harir that has a lot more freedom to move around. 

Or, you can marvel at one of the many temples like Jama Masjid, Swaminarayan Temple or Akshardham Temple.

A lot of people don’t know that Gujarat was the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi! Visiting his Sabarmati Ashram here is a highlight attraction of the city. 

There’s also the Calico Textiles Museum and if you were looking for markets, you could check out Law Garden and/or Manek Chowk! 

In the evenings a stroll alongside the Kankaria Lake is just the ticket or the Sabarmati Riverfront is lovely too.

Dada Harir Stepwell

Where to stay in Ahmedabad

I stayed in two properties whilst in Ahmedabad, one was a contemporary hotel and the other was a boutique Haveli. 

The first hotel I stayed in was the highly rated Hyatt Regency in Ahmedabad, my room was on a really high floor so I had picture perfect views to wake up too. 

There was also modern amenities and a breakfast buffet in the mornings. This is a great hotel but more catered for business travellers I’d say or those that want more modern conveniences.

Click here to book a room

The second was The House of MG. This is nicer for those travellers who want to experience the culture and heritage of Gujarat. 

This is a boutique Haveli hotel that was built in the early 20th century and belonged to one of the cities foremost businessmen, Sheth Mangaldas Girdhardas. Mahatma Ghandi even stayed here in 1915 on his return from South Africa! 

I stayed in a heritage suite with a four poster bed and it even had a swing at the back of the room! It was a luxury worth splurging on. 

The hotel also run many heritage walks and tours and can help you organise the rest of your travels through the city and Gujarat if you wanted to. 

The House of MG’s most popular restaurant, ‘Agashiye’, is on the terrace and serves up one of the best Gujarati Kansa Thali’s in town. It’s unlimited food, fit for a Rana or Rani, so bring lots of room in your stomach and get involved!

Click here to book your stay

The swing in my room at the House of MG!

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Adalaj Stepwell Adalaj Ni Vav Gujarat

History beckons when it gives you entry to the life people subsisted and the air they breathed. India is a treasure of art and sculptors. Let it be a temple, a well, a simple wall or the best architecture, folks tend to try their magical hands on everything they came across. Giving every bit a personal touch was the way Ahmedavadis, live. The amalgamation of Hindus and Muslims is what you will find in major historical monuments of Ahmedabad.  One such place adalaj ni vav history in gujarati language Adalaj ni Vav, one of the best historical steps well of Gujarat. The old name for Adalaj was Gadhpatan.

What are the step-wells?

The word Vaav means step well. It is a five-storey well that is massively used for photography and videography nowadays. But, hardly is anyone aware of the walls that speak and the water that holds the soul of the queen who sacrificed her life by jumping in the well. Vav was usually constructed to hold the water that lied deep in the Earth.  They were so magnificent and built in the most artistic way that each wall and each stone speak about the hands of the artists that carved them. This Adalaj stepwell was dug when drought had its major effect and so it was dug deep enough to fetch groundwater. This beautiful stepwell has created curiosity not only in Amdavadis or Indians, but it has tourists across the seas. Ahmedabad has gained the title of World’s heritage adalaj ni vav history in gujarati language by UNESCO and with it, Adalaj ni Vaav has gained a new position and have attracted eyes of folks.

Architecture in step well

History of Adalaj ni Vaav

Are you interested in knowing the magnificent history that lies behind Adalaj ni Vaav? If, yes. Stick on. This well was built to fetch the water that lied deep beneath the Earth and so it is Five storeys altogether. It was constructed during the reign of Veer Singh Vaghela in 1499 AD. However, before the construction met its final touch, the kingdom was attacked by Mohammed Begda who tend to be the Muslim ruler of the kingdom nearby. The construction of the Vav could not be completed and hence, it was stopped. The kingdom was occupied by Mohammed Begda who happen to fall in love with Rani Roodabai. He was ace vav wooyoung by her beauty and wanted to marry her.  Rani Rooda bai wanted to be Sati after his husband but she found out the way to varnish the left-over construction of Adalaj ni Vav.  She agreed to the marriage proposal given by the king only if he allowed the construction of the step gets completed. King was so mesmerized by the beauty and wanted to marry her on eac vave sensor altima 2001 condition. He passed on the order to complete the edifice as adalaj ni vav history in gujarati language as probable. After the construction was over, the queen had achieved her only purpose of life. She wanted this construction to get adalaj ni vav history in gujarati language anyhow, which was started by her husband. No sooner it was completed she ended her life by joining hands and jumping into the same stepwell which is widely known as ‘Adalaj ni Vav’. Adalaj ni Vav stands is a sacrificial place and it stands as a monument depicting the deep love of Veer Singh Vaghela and his wife Roodabai. Adalaj ni vav history in gujarati language is also known as Roodabai ni Vaav on the name eac vave sensor altima 2001 Rani Roodabai. All the architects who built the Vaav were killed so that they could not build any other monument like this. The language that is incrusted in the walls of the stepwell is in Brahmi language.

Carvings in vav

So, to sum it all construction was initiated by Veer Singh Vaghela and completed by Mohammad Begda. You will see a combination of Hindu and Muslim version both on the walls of the stepwell. It is an Indo- Islamic architecture that holds marvellous beauty in it. When we visited, we were mesmerized with the carving on the walls and the perfection of each drawing and each part of the well had.  It is an octagonal well and you can view the perfect shape when you reach the bottom of the stepwell. You can view at the top and check the perfect octagon shape of the well. It provided the perfect ventilation to the well and the folks who fetched the water from the well.

Indo-Islamic structure

The walls have carvings of Hindu gods and Islamic themes of flowers.  You can view beautiful carvings that depicted the lives of people in that era. Woman performing her daily chores of adorning themselves, woman churning buttermilk, dancers, musicians and king watching them. The verses are scripted in the stepwell and you can read them which sing the lore praising Roodabai. it also says about the expense of the well which was five lakhs in the 15th Century. Also, one important thing to be noted is the temperature inside the well always remains 5 to 6 degrees cooler than the temperature outside. This made the perfect place for catching up people and chit chat for those who fetched water.

How to book:

This is 400-year-old Vav and nowadays in the Covid situation, you have to book tickets online. Once booked, you have to show it at the ticket counter before you are allowed in.

Ticket charges:

  • INR 25 for adults.
  • Children below 15 are free.

Nowadays, when pre-wedding shoots are crowning, it is the place that is mostly preferred for photoshoots and videography. Picture perfect place that gives immense natural filter during dawn and early rise. This post is written as a part of #exploreamdavadseries. For more such post in the same series visit
Hastibibi no gokhlo- Golden feather in the history of Ahmedabad
Of you like the pictures you can visit the link below or my youtube channel for more!

 

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Adalaj Stepwell or Adalaj ni vav in Ahmedabad,Gujarat, is a stunning example of Indo-Islamic fusion architecture work. It was built by the Hindu queen Rani Roopba with help from neighbouring Muslim ruler King Mehmud Begad. However, it's history is full of drama and Bollywood like twists and turns. Here is a brief account of the story and my visit to Adalaj ni vav.

Adalaj Stepwell Ahmedabad Gujarat vav carvings beautiful steps travel tourism
Adalaj ni Vav in Ahmedabad

Stepwellsare common in the arid and semi-arid regions of India, especially in Gujarat and Rajasthan. The term used for stepwells in Gujarat is Vavwhile in Rajasthan they are called Baoli. They are similar in form and function, but have unique architectural characteristics which can help differentiate eac vave sensor altima 2001 two. It is believed that about 200 such stepwells survive in the Gujarat region itself, so its easy to imagine their numbers in the bygone era. However, stepwells have always been a part of the history in this region - the oldest stepwells (or even cylindrical wells) are believed to have been built at Mohanjodaro during the Indus-Valley civilisation.

History of Adalaj ni Vav

The construction of Adalaj ni vav Stepwell Ahmedabad Gujarat carvings beautiful steps travel tourism was adalaj ni vav history in gujarati language by King Rana Veer Singh and finished by his queen Rani Roopba after his death. The structure is built in Solanki style of architecture, with Islamic influence, and consists of five storeys, each of which is uniquely designed with beautiful carvings all over the walls and columns.

Adalaj ni vav Stepwell Ahmedabad Gujarat carvings beautiful steps travel tourism
Priests going in to the Adalaj ni Vav

Traditionally, stepwells served two key purposes - as a place to store water in an arid region, and a place for travellers to stop by during their long journeys. Due to the design of the stwepwell, very little sunlight actually enters the lower levels which keeps them cool during the day time. This allowed for travellers to take shelter from the sweltering sun. Each of the level at the vav is also quite big and can easily accommodate many people. Back in the days these storeys were used for hosting travellers (no hotels at that time). This was also a part of a traditional trade route and hence their usefulness was quite high.

Adalaj ni vav Stepwell Ahmedabad Gujarat carvings beautiful steps travel tourism
Some water at the base of the stepwell

The stepwellwas also a meeting place for the women from the neighbouring villages, who would come here in the afternoon as the temperature was much lower, sit around, gossip, pray a little and go back when things cooled down outside. The walls at the stepwell are adorned by figurines of various Hindu and Jain gods and they served as mini-temples for the women. Some of these temples are eac vave sensor altima 2001 functional, and its common to see saints visit these and offer flowers etc to the deity.

Adalaj ni vav Stepwell Ahmedabad Gujarat carvings beautiful steps travel tourism
Hindu gods in Adalaj

The Legend of Adalaj ni Vav

The legend associated with Adalaj ni Vav is a story of war, love and betrayal, almost like a Bollywood drama. This is how it goes. King Mehmud Begada was a neighbouring king to Adalaj and he entered adalaj ni vav history in gujarati language a war with King Rana Veer Singh. Before the war started King Rana Veer Singh has already commissioned the stwepwell and work was in full swing. Ace vav wooyoung, King Rana Veer Singh died in the war and the kingdom fell.

Adalaj ni vav Stepwell Ahmedabad Gujarat carvings beautiful steps travel tourism
Intricate carvings

Now his Queen Rani Roopba was already a legend in the region for her beauty and it took no time for King Mehmud Begada to fall head over heels in love with her (maybe her beauty). He proposed to marry her and make her the queen and surprisingly she agreed. However, she had one condition - King Mehmud would finish the pending work on the stepwell, the swan song of her late husband. Our noble king readily agreed and work started again. The style remained largely unchanged and the stepwell was built in Hindu style, but King Mehmud got some Islamic influences which can be seen more and more on the upper levels.

Adalaj ni vav Stepwell Ahmedabad Gujarat carvings beautiful steps travel tourism
Another view

When the well got completed and it was time for marriage ceremony to ace vav wooyoung place, Rani Roopba jumped into the vav and committed suicide. Adalaj ni vav history in gujarati language was all apparently her ploy to get the king to finish the stepwell which was husband's dream and possibly his last wish. King Mehmud was devastated but decided against destroying either the stepwell of the carvings and idols of Hindu gods inside, possibly because he really did love the queen.

My recent visit adalaj ni vav history in gujarati language Adalaj ni Vav

Having lived in Gujarat for years, I have been exploring the architecture of the state a lot. I revisited the site once again recently and fell in love all over again, not just with Gujarat but also the vav. It was a Sunday, but not just any Sunday - it was the day when India and Pakistan were playing each other for the sixth time in a World Cup match and the whole world (well, India and Pakistan for sure) was glued to their television sets. It was also the day of Sabarmanti Marathon (I participated in ace vav wooyoung inaugural race a few years back) which meant that most roads were blocked and taking an auto out of town was going to be difficult. I released this when I left my hotel at the break of dawn, only to find hundreds of people walking (not running) on the streets. I had to walk about three kilometres before I could get out of the marathon zone and find an auto to take me out of town.

Adalaj ni vav Stepwell Ahmedabad Gujarat carvings beautiful steps travel tourism
Gorgeous light at Adalaj Adalaj ni vav history in gujarati language alt="Adalaj ni vav Stepwell Ahmedabad Gujarat carvings beautiful steps travel tourism" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e7XmyAaypUQ/VOa9AESaZOI/AAAAAAAAUrY/fF-7yBSPD4o/s1600/adalaj%2Bstepwell%2Bvav%2Bahmedabad%2B11.JPG" width="640">
Some more visitors

Forty-five minutes later I was at Adalaj, at about 8 am which is the official time for it to open. Since it was match day, there was absolutely no one there. My friend Ajay who had come from Gandhinagar was already there and soon we met on the top level - very much like the travellers of the olden days. It was cool outside, but inside it was much colder. I immediately convinced him to walk with me to the extreme edge of the first level, an area which is generally prohibited due to possible risk of fall. Thankfully it was only after we reached to the end and took some pigeon shots, that the caretaker saw us and angrily asked ace vav wooyoung to come back.

We spent the next one hour talking about our travels and making plans for a road-rip together in Gujarat. It was time for the match and so Ajay left, but I stayed back as my interest in Cricket has waned in the past few years and I was anyway getting updated through my phone. I have always enjoyed places like these alone, and here was absolutely alone. Only a handful of visitors adalaj ni vav history in gujarati language and they all left within fifteen minutes. This allowed me to have small chats with many, including the young man, Adalaj ni vav history in gujarati language, who was cleaning the steps. I made him walk a few steps for me and after that we both kept saying 'Thank you' to each other :)

Adalaj ni vav Stepwell Ahmedabad Gujarat carvings beautiful steps travel tourism
The cleaning boy at Adalaj ni Vav

I also met this bunch of guys who worked in a band, not the rock band, but the kind which plays music at weddings and some other cultural events. They were in their white uniforms and in really good mood. One of them, Nilesh, also agreed to be part of my #TellMeYourDreams2015 project. The rest all posed for the camera and told me lots about their lives. Interestingly all, but one, of them were from Maharashtra and they come to Gujarat only for two months to play during the wedding season. When ace vav wooyoung are back in town they work in their fields.

Adalaj ni vav Stepwell Ahmedabad Gujarat carvings beautiful steps travel tourism
Met and interviewed this bunch at the stepwell

At about eleven it was time to leave as I a flight to catch in three hours. I spent about three hours there, but to me that was still adalaj ni vav history in gujarati language. There was still so much more to see, so many more people to talk to and so many more pictures to take.

Adalaj ni vav Stepwell Ahmedabad Gujarat carvings beautiful steps travel tourism
Kids playing at Adalaj Stepwell

Practical tips for Adalaj ni Vav

The best time for a visit is early morning. The light is great, crowd is less and so place is pretty much to yourself.

The visiting hours are 8am to 7pm.

If you are traveling on a backpacker's budget, this is what you need to do:

1. Go to Lal Darwaza (its the central bus station)
2. Take a shared auto or a bus to Adalaj town (inform that you want to go to the vav)
3. An auto will cost Rs 30 and bus will be much cheaper

If you have some more money, you can take an auto from Ahmedabad city and directly go to the stepwell. Let the auto not wait for you otherwise he might charge you a bomb as waiting fee. You can find an auto/ bus/ shared-auto easily after adalaj ni vav history in gujarati language are done with the visit. You can also take a radio cab for a drop and then take an auto for the return trip.

The non-shared silverado vav floor mats will cost about Yellow claw krewella vava 200-250, vava virtual assistants glassdoor will be slightly more.

The journey takes about forty-five minutes in auto.

Adalaj ni vav Stepwell Ahmedabad Gujarat carvings beautiful steps travel tourism
Goodbye to the stepwell

Other Stepwells (vavs) in and around Ahmedabad

There are hundreds of stepwells in Gujarat and many of these have not even been discovered by the travellers. Sharing links of a few that I have been to so far.

1. Rani ni vav (Queen's stepwell) in Patan
2. adalaj ni vav history in gujarati language ni vav in Vadodara
3. Dada Hari ni vav and Mata Bhawani ni vav

Among the finest examples of stepwells in Gujarat, about 19 km north of Ahmedabad, lies Adalaj Vav or Adalaj Stepwell. It was built by queen Rudadevi, wife of Veer Singh, the chief of Vaghela dynasty, in 1499, in her husband’s memory. Legend has it that in the 15th century, Rana Veer Singh ruled over the region that was known as Dandai Desh back then. As the kingdom always faced water shortage and was dependent on rains, the ruler ordered the construction of a large and deep well. But before it could be completed, neighbouring Muslim ruler, Mohammed Begda, attacked Dandai Desh and Veer Singh was killed. Though his widow wanted to perform sati (a ritual of widows immolating themselves when their husband dies)Begda stopped her and told her that he wanted to marry her. She agreed on the condition that he complete the construction of the stepwell first. Begda agreed and the stepwell was made in record time. But the queen had other plans. She first circumambulated the stepwell with prayers and thereafter jumped into it to be one with her husband. What adalaj ni vav history in gujarati language unique about this stepwell is that it has three entrances, giving way to a platform resting on 16 pillars. All three of the stairway entrances meet underground where the platform has an octagonal top. The corners of all 16 platforms have shrines carved into them. The well is five floors deep and apart from deities, the carvings portray a wide range of subjects, from women churning butter to them adorning themselves in front of heart vave replaccement done safely mirror. The stepwell, in its time, gave shelter to pilgrims and traders. It is believed that the villagers used to come here to fill water and offer prayers to the deities. Experts in the field of architecture and archaeology believe that due to its octagonal ceiling, little air or sunlight entered the landing, the reason why the temperature inside is always cooler than outside. The vav is a spectacular specimen of Indo-Islamic architecture with fine Jain symbols as a reflection of the period it was built in. Worth a visit are kalpvriksha (tree of life) and ami khumbor (pot containing water of life) that have been carved out of single slab of stone. Locals believe that the small frieze of navgrahas or nine planets near the well’s edge protects the monument from evil spirits. 

Adalaj stepwell is five stories deep, built-in sandstone in the Solanki architectural style. A stepwell is built on an intricately carved large number of pillars with an octagonal plan at the top. Each floor is so spacious that the people can hold gatherings. The light and air can enter the octagonal well as it has an opening in the ceilings above the landing. It is dug so deep that one can access groundwater at that level, accounting for seasonal fluctuations in water level due to rainfall over the years. As the direct sunlight does not touch landings except at noon, the atmosphere inside the well is six degrees cooler than the outside. A unique feature of this stepwell is that from the first story level, three staircases lead to the bottom water level of the well.

A stepwell is called a Vav in the Gujarati language. The vav is a remarkable example of Indo-Islamic architecture and design. Mythological scenes carve the walls along with everyday adalaj ni vav history in gujarati language of women churning buttermilk, dancers accompanied by musicians, women adorning themselves, and a king sitting on a stool. The upper floors are carved by elephants which are 3 inches in size, each of different designs. The notable feature of the great monument is Navagraha at the end of the well. It is believed that Navagraha protects the historical site from evil spirits. It has three entrance stairs. A classical blend of Islamic floral, geometric designs, Hindu, and Jain icons and symbols make the stepwell remarkable.

The stepwell is open on all the days, and to enjoy the exciting play of light on the interiors of the stepwell. It is advisable to plan one's visit so that the spectator is underground in the stepwell when the sun is up. The weather during October and March is quite pleasant in Ahmedabad and conducive for visiting the stepwell.


Plan and Section of Adalaj Stepwell (Image Source)



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