Rajasthan is the land of architectural marvels. The royal state is defined by grand palaces, ancient forts and stunning temples. While a number of palaces and forts in Rajasthan have made a mark internationally, few wonders are still waiting to be discovered. And one such marvel is Chand Baori in Abhaneri. Anand Mahindra, the top industrialist and an avid traveller, recently took to his X profile and highlighted the beauty of Chand Baori. He said it is not just a monument but an idea carved in stone. His observation is powerful: while the world travels to Rajasthan to admire its famous attractions, this ancient stepwell impresses with its geometric perfection.A 1000-Year-Old marvelSituated in the quiet village of Abhaneri, Chand Baori is one of the most wondrous attractions in Rajasthan dating back to the 8th–9th century. The well was built by King Chanda of the Nikumbha dynasty. There’s no denying that the place has an overwhelming presence. It impresses at first glance. Built nearly 30 metres into the ground, the well is spread across 13 levels and lined with around 3,500 narrow steps which are arranged in perfect symmetry. It’s simply awesome!Anand Mahindra in his post says,“But what impresses most isn’t just the scale, it’s the thinking. We talk a lot today about “design thinking” which is essentially solving problems by blending empathy, function and design so seamlessly that the solution becomes an art form.” It is a fact that Chand Baori is not just deep. It is absolutely hypnotic. When you deeply look at the criss-crossing stairways it creates an optical illusion which resembles an inverted pyramid jutting out of the depth of earth which leaves onlookers awestruck! A much-needed architectural wonderChand Baori was built as a water reservoir. The climate in Rajasthan is hot and humid where water has always been scarce. Stepwells like this acted as lifelines. Chand Baori was built as a rainwater harvesting system to make sure water remains available during long dry spells. These wells were used as a tool for:Water storageClimate controlBollywood and Hollywood connection
x/Anand Mahindra
Not many must be aware of the fact that Chand Baori has a Bollywood as well as Hollywood connection. The attraction first featured in the famous movie Paheli (2005) which was the official entry from India for Oscars. It then reappeared in Bhool Bhulaiyaa.Chand Baori then appeared in Christopher Nolan’s film The Dark Knight Rises (2012) and The Fall (2006).
X/Anand Mahindra
What sets Chand Baori apart is its extraordinary rhythm. Every step, every shadow is so precise that it’s an absolute art!Close to the Baori is the Harshat Mata Temple. The priest who sits inside narrates beautiful stories of local gods and goddesses. In the old times, people would visit the stepwell before heading to the temple.How to reach: Chand Baori is about 90 km from Jaipur. The nearest airport is located in Jaipur. But as far as Mahindra pointed out, this is design thinking in its purest form. A forgotten wonder is rediscovered.