In the southern state of Karnataka, Bijapur’s Suranga Bawadi has now found its place in the World Monuments Watch List under “Ancient Water System of the Deccan Plateau” maintained by the World Monument Funds. Traditionally a part of the Karez System, which saw water supplied through subterranean tunnels, Suranga Bawadi was constructed by Adil Shah-I from the Adilshahi dynasty during the 16th century, catering to the water needs of Vijaypura in Karnataka.
The Karez System: An Ancient Method of Water Harnessing
Originating in Persia/Iran, the Karez System is an ingenious method of harnessing groundwater, bringing it to the surface without the aid of any mechanical pump or lift. Here, gravity plays a crucial role in drawing water from the underground sources. While this technology was extensively employed during the medieval period, it continues to hold relevance even today for its simplicity and efficiency.
The World Monuments Watch: Guarding Our Cultural Heritage
Launched in 1995 on the occasion of the 30th anniversary of the World Monuments Fund, the World Monuments Watch is a biennial selection program, aiming at identifying ‘at-risk cultural heritage sites’. These are sites that not only carry historical significance but also have contemporary social impact. The program utilises cultural heritage conservation as a tool to foster community empowerment and enhance human well-being, extending direct financial and technical support to preserve these heritage sites.
Nominations for the World Monuments Watch
Contributions to the nomination process extend beyond experts, with private individuals, representatives of civil society organizations, community groups, government agencies, education institutions, among others being invited to propose sites for the World Monuments Watch. In this way, the program ensures an all-inclusive approach, encouraging a wider participation and engagement with the heritage conservation process.
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location of Suranga Bawadi | Bijapur, Karnataka |
| Builder of Suranga Bawadi | Adil Shah-I of Adilshahi dynasty |
| Era of Construction | 16th Century |
| Origin of Karez System | Persia/Iran |
| Launch Year of World Monuments Watch | 1995 |
World Monument Fund: Safeguarding Artistic Treasures
An organization deeply devoted to the protection of global artistic treasures, the World Monuments Fund is a private nonprofit entity, set up in 1965 by a group of discerning individuals. Disturbed by the rapid destruction of crucial art treasures across the world, these individuals came together to form a consortium, initiating steps to safeguard and preserve these cultural and historic gems for the future.
Last Modified: February 6, 2024