New Delhi: Stepwells have always played a crucial role in the history of India in supplying water to a local community. It was especially important in the ancient and medieval periods when people had no supply of running water at their homes. Hence, the rulers and other people in the authorities used to build stepwells for their subjects. It not only mitigated their thirst but also ensured the survival of the legacy of the one who commissioned it for later generations. India has several famous stepwells. But there are few which can close to the fame of Chand Baori, with Delhi’s Agrasen ki Baoli looking like the only one which can give it a run for its money.
Chand Baori: Know about the massive and famous stepwell
The Chand Baori was built over a thousand years ago in Rajasthan’s Abhaneri village and is one of the largest stepwells in the world with exquisite design. Its depth is around 100 feet and it was named after Raja Chand, a local ruler of the Nikumbh dynasty. According to estimates, it was possibly constructed between the 8th century and the 9th century. It has 3500 steps cascading 13 stories deep into a massive tank at the bottom and its design looks like an upside-down pyramid.
While Raja Chand is said to have constructed it, there is no epigraphic evidence supporting this claim. The baori has a precise geometrical pattern and the steps at the side form a magical maze. It has an enclosed rectangular space which looks like a courtyard and also windows. On the three sides, the stairs encircle the water and there is a pavilion with three storeys consisting of beautiful carved windows, galleries supported on pillars and two projecting balconies enshrining beautiful sculptures on the fourth side.
The baori is surrounded by the magnificent Harshat Mata Temple built between the 7th century and the 8th century. During its active years, the ancient stepwell was modified several times both for beautification and better utility. It also has a small room where people used to draw water with some traditional pulley-like equipment.
The Chand Baori was built over a thousand years ago in Rajasthan’s Abhaneri village and is one of the largest stepwells in the world with exquisite design. knowledge Knowledge News, Photos and Videos on General Knowledge
