Subterranean Architecture: Stepwells in Western India An exhibition of 60 digital photographs by Richard Cox

Stepwells, mainly constructed centuries ago in North West India, were originally built to access the water underground and as a means to retain water from the Monsoon season. They were used as a source of survival for those living in desert states but eventually evolved into becoming gathering sites where temples and shrines were built. Stepwells served a variety of purposes to those living near them as well as to travelers needing water throughout their journey.

Since these step wells became a vital asset to the local cities and villages, some were large with great architectural detail and depth , while others were simple and mainly functional. The designs of each stepwell was largely influenced by geographic region, climate, and whether the religion of those responsible for its construction were Hindu or Muslim. Because many of those responsible for these unique wells were actually Royal Families, they were well preserved up until they were deemed a health hazard by the British Raj who did not understand the significance of the structures to the people of Western India.

The ban on their use coupled with a long drought left the stepwells abandoned and ignored for several years, however there is a resurgence of attention being brought to them by two organizations (DRONAH and INTACH) that are working to establish some of the sites to World Heritage Status. This exhibition of photographs illuminate these great historical structures and also restore and preserve the memory of what these wells meant to India.