The Temple of Steps: An Ancient Solution to a Modern-Day Water Crisis!

Nestled in the heart of Andhra Pradesh in India lies a stunning black limestone temple that is truly one-of-a-kind. With its striking design and surrounded by tranquil water, this new Balaji Temple or the Temple of Steps  is an architectural marvel that serves as a place of worship and a gathering place for the community. One of the most remarkable aspects of the temple is its clever use of water. In an area known for its cotton and chilli farms that once benefitted from a natural canal that has since dried up, the architects Sameep Padora and his team  sought to bring water back to the dry region. They succeeded by redirecting the source from a nearby limestone quarry, creating a new water source around which the temple was built. This area also provides a peaceful space for the community to gather and relax. The temple's design is also reminiscent of India's iconic stepwells, which have played an important role in water conservation for centuries. The Balaji Temple's shape and water source are similar to the baolis, vavs, and kunds found throughout the country. This integration of land and water with steps is a significant part of India's architectural heritage. The Temple is a true gem, representing a harmonious union between traditional and modern architectural design. Its unique structure and design for water conservation are an evidence of the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the architects and the community who envisioned and brought it to life. Anyone who has the chance to visit this stunning temple will undoubtedly be awe-struck by its beauty and serenity.

An Amazing Transformation: The Bansilalpet Stepwell

  The Bansilalpet stepwell is a 17th-century monument located in the bustling locality of Bansilalpet, Hyderabad, India. It has recently undergone a transformation from a waste dump to a beautiful destination for both locals and tourists. It has won numerous awards at global heritage and tourism events.  The stepwell is a brilliant piece of architecture with its incorporation of steps, making it a cool sanctuary for travelers and pilgrims. The restoration of the stepwell was backed by the Telangana Government, Rainwater Project, Crowdfunding, Social Venture Partners, the Non-Profit Gandipet Welfare Society, and the State Government.  The illuminated stepwell was inaugurated last month with a performance by dancers, and today it serves as an example of successful conservation and historical preservation. The stepwell is now a source of water for washing, drinking, and irrigation and is a popular tourist site, drawing huge footfalls.  In 2021, the government of Telangana began the restoration of stepwells of historical significance in and around Hyderabad. The Hyderabad Design Forum identified around 100 stepwells and submitted a list of 16 for restoration. In September 2022, six stepwells of the Qutub Shahi Tombs in Hyderabad were restored, which won a UNESCO award for conservation in November. The Bansilalpet Stepwell was also recently restored and has since become a destination for both locals and tourists.