ADALAJ STEPWELL (ADALAJ NI VAV) NEAR AHMEDABAD, GUJARAT
Adalaj Stepwell or Adalaj ni vav in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, is a stunning example of Indo-Islamic fusion architecture work. It was built by the Hindu queen Rani Roopba with help from neighbouring Muslim ruler King Mehmud Begad. However, it's history is full of drama and Bollywood like twists and turns. Here is a brief account of the story and my visit to Adalaj ni vav. Adalaj Stepwell history or Adalaj ni vav history It was built in 1498 in the memory of Rana Veer Singh (the Vaghela dynasty of Dandai Des), by his wife Queen Rudadevi. It is a fine example of Indian architecture work. Stepwells or the stepped ponds were generally built in semi-arid regions of the country especially along trade routes. These architectural sites were often used to store monsoon rains and by several pilgrims and traders passing through the way as their resting place. Making up an essential part of Ahmedabad’s history, Adalaj Step Well was commissioned by famous queen Rudabai the wife