Holkar Kund - a hidden historic wonder

Beauty of Indian architecture lies in the fact that how the soul is harmoniously connected with the surroundings balancing environment and natural forces. Structures have been designed according to the utility and support to local population. Likewise fortified citadels, hilltop forts for defence against enemies, stilt houses in flood-prone areas, courtyards in homes to improve ventilation in hot areas, temple complexes serving as social and cultural centres and stepwells in dry regions to conserve water.

Stepwells especially have been an important part of Indian architecture in dry and arid regions. They not only helped conserve precious water but ensured supply of water to the local population and respite from heat.

Ahilyabai Holkar Shivalay Tirth Kund is one such stepwell in Chatrapati Sambhaji Nagar. It was constructed by noted Queen Ahilyabai Holkar in 18th century.  Stepwell measures 240×185 feet and epitomises remarkable design symmetry. 8 temples, each housing a Shivling are located along its perimeter at the four corners and at the centre of each side at the water’s edge. This is a structure that functions as a treatise in architectural balance and sacred geometry.

 

Chatrapati Sambhaji Nagar is in drought prone Marathwada region and has long faced water scarcity. Holkar Kund is an example of indigenous environmental engineering, to store rainwater, reduce runoff and gradually recharge groundwater. We enjoyed the time spent here and worshipping the God Shiv in small temples along the edges of water.

The stepwell was constructed as a holy spot for local population to get much needed water and for pilgrims to relax, take a bath before entering the Jyotirlinga temple. Away or overshadowed by more celebrated monuments like Rock-cut caves, Holkar Kund stands as an illustration of civic planning of the Marathas and their emphasis on public utility.

 

Despite its historical significance and environmental importance, Holkar Kund remains totally unknown. Holkar Kund is just 500m. from Ghrishneshwar Jyotirlinga temple and 1 km. from Ellora Caves. Thousands of people visit Ellora Caves and Jyotirlinga temple daily, however hardly anyone comes to Holkar Kund. 

Unlike grand stepwells in Rajasthan or Gujarat, Holkar Kund is simple, elegant and functional. Design ensures easy access to water throughout the year, even during dry seasons.

In today’s context of water stress and climate uncertainty, structures like Holkar Kund offers valuable lessons in sustainable, low-impact infrastructure. Such stepwells can connect modern engineering with traditional knowledge systems that once ensured resilience and self-sufficiency. Check out a virtual tour of Holkar Kund:

To summarize – Since visiting this spot, I learnt that heritage is not only about grand monuments, but also equally about the structures that sustained life and made difference to everyday lives of local population.

 

I hope with this blog will inspire us to discover places like Holkar Kund and take one small step toward honoring our past and thinking sustainable future. Keep exploring Folks……