Dedicating the rejuvenated Bangali stepwell to the people of Jejuri on 14th April 2023
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Stepwells (locally called as बारव or वाव or बावडी, etc.) represent a very important structure in our country. Their importance is due to the fact that they are tapping into a potentially rich ground water source found by our forefathers.
There are over 1000 stepwells in Maharashtra alone. Conservation of stepwells holds the potential to solve drinking water problems of many villages. It is essential to preserve our heritage and create awareness about hygiene and cleanliness of water sources.
Sadly, most of the stepwells are in pitiable condition. They have been littered, filled up with silt, seen wild plants grown over them, etc. Sevavardhini is supporting the effort to clean and rejuvenate the stepwells.
There are over 1000 stepwells in Maharashtra alone. Conservation of stepwells holds the potential to solve drinking water problems of many villages. It is essential to preserve our heritage and create awareness about hygiene and cleanliness of water sources.
Sadly, most of the stepwells are in pitiable condition. They have been littered, filled up with silt, seen wild plants grown over them, etc. Sevavardhini is supporting the effort to clean and rejuvenate the stepwells.
We are delighted to share that with support from Mindtickle, and the Nagar Parishad of the pilgrimage town of Jejuri, we have completed work on the rejuvenation of the historic Bangali Barav. A lok-arpan and jal-pujan ceremony was held on 14th April to mark this event. The CO of Jejuri Nagar Parishad - Mr. Charudatta Ingule, CEO of MindTickle - Mr. Krishna Depura and Karyavah of Sevavardhini - Mr. Somdatta Patwardhan performed jal-pujan.
Mr. Pramod Kale, Retired Executive Engineer of Irrigation Department, and the mentor of this initiative provided a lucid summary about the historical and cultural significance of stepwells and how they have played an important role in sustaining reliable sources of drinking water since ancient times. There is a huge need for reviving stepwells - numbering over 2000 in the state of Maharashtra alone.
It often takes just about Rs. 3 lakhs (~$4,000) to revive one step-well. Sevavardhini would like to invite all like minded people to support us in this initiative. To make a (80G tax deductible) contribution, please visit: Donation Form (sevavardhini.org).