Batadu ka Kuaa
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| Batadu ka Kuaa | |
|---|---|
  Top: Statue of Garuda in Batadu ka Kuaa Complex Bottom: Batadu ka Kuaa | |
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| Alternative names | Jalmahal of Rajasthan |
| General information | |
| Status | Deteriorating |
| Type | Historic well |
| Location | Batadu, Rajasthan, India |
| Year(s) built | 1947 |
| Opened | 1947 |
| Technical details | |
| Material | Marble |
Batadu ka Kuaa also known as "Jalmahal," is a historic well located in Batadu, Rajasthan, India. This well, constructed in 1947, holds great artistic and religious significance and played a vital role during the princely era.[1][2][3][4]
History[edit]
During the drought of 1947 in the Marwar region of Rajasthan, the local population faced a severe shortage of clean drinking water. Witnessing the dire situation, Rawal of Sindhari Gulab Singh had Batadu ka Kuaa constructed. This well, made entirely of marble, served as the sole source of drinking water for many villages within a 40–50-kilometer radius. At that time, people would queue for water for hours, highlighting its critical importance.[1][5]
Importance and neglect[edit]
Batadu ka Kuaa, historically known as the "Jalmahal," served as a lifeline for the surrounding villages during the princely era when no other water sources were available nearby. However, with the introduction of new wells, tube wells, and alternative water sources after India's independence, its significance has dwindled, and it has been neglected.[1]
Today, the well is in a state of deterioration due to a lack of preservation. Its marble sculptures and stones have begun to disappear, and anti-social elements have vandalized it. Despite local efforts to raise awareness and preserve the well, it remains neglected.[1]
The need for preservation is evident as the well has been left open, and waste is disposed of inside it, turning this once-vital lifeline into a garbage receptacle. Additionally, several animals have fallen into it and perished, despite temporary coverings with cloths.[1]
Structure and inscriptions[edit]
Batadu ka Kuaa is an impressive structure, measuring 60 feet in length, 35 feet in width, 6 feet in height, and 80 feet in depth. The well can be accessed through two gates, a main entrance, and an exit gate, both adorned with lion statues. The surrounding area features inscriptions describing the art of kings, queens, and deities, along with Sanskrit verses praising the significance of cows.[1]
Preservation efforts[edit]
Preservation of Batadu ka Kuaa has become a political issue during elections, but little action has been taken. The local population continues to advocate for the well's preservation, recognizing its historical significance and importance as a cultural heritage site.[1]
References[edit]
- ^ a b c d e f g "HISTORICAL BATADU KA KUAA (Historical Well of Batadu)". www.localguidesconnect.com. 11 July 2021. Archived from the original on 8 November 2023. Retrieved 8 November 2023.
- ^ बाड़मेर में ताजमहल के संगमरमर से बना है बाटाडू कुआ,आज उदासीनता ने घेरा, retrieved 8 November 2023
- ^ राजस्थान का जलमहल ll बाटाडू का कुआं ll Batadu ka kua vlog, retrieved 8 November 2023
- ^ बाटाडू का कुआ हिंदू आस्था का केंद्र, बाड़मेर, retrieved 8 November 2023
- ^ Publication, Atharv; Gupta 'SIR', Devesh. Rajasthan District G.K.: English Medium. Atharv Publication.