Gujarat's R-Day tableau to exhibit Queen's Stepwell

The tableau of Gujarat will display 'Rani ki Vav -- Jal Mandir' (Queen's Stepwell), a unique piece of ancient Indian architecture, construction and craftsmanship, located in Patan city.

The Rani ki Vav, an UNESCO world heritage site, highlights the rich and beautiful tradition of the Gujarati culture and is a distinct example of complex architectural technique.

According to the fable, the Rani ki Vav was built in 1083 by Rani Udayamati in memory of her husband King Bhimdev-I, son of Mulraj, founder of the Solanki dynasty.

A fine example of water management, the stepwell was an important source of water for the surrounding villages. "It's designed as an inverted temple, which was also used as a community engagement site. The central theme is the 'Dasavatara', the 10 incarnations of Lord Vishnu," said an official.

The descending stairs passes through the corridors, made of columns, at each of the seven levels. The cold winds can be felt, while descending through the stairs at the stepwell.

The front part of the tableau will have a village woman carrying water in an earthen pot and the stepwell in the middle with corridor and stairs with pillars spreading to the end.

"Statues of Buddha and Devi will be in the middle wall. Artists will be portraying paniharis, who provided water to villagers," the official said.
IANS