Vav (Stepwells)

Baroda, now Vadodara, is home to an impressive collection of stepwells, known locally as ‘vavs’. Once numbering over 100, these ancient water reservoirs served both practical and cultural purposes. Today, only a few of these vavs are accessible, and even fewer are well-maintained. Here’s a look at some of the notable stepwells still standing in and around the city.

Navlakhi Vav

Located within the grounds of the Lukshmi Vilas Palace, Navlakhi Vav is a remnant of the Gurjar rule in Baroda. According to a plaque, it was built during the reign of Sultan Muzaffar Shah in the 15th century. Historical records, including Ramesh Joshi’s book Imarat Ane Avshesho — Baroda Nagari no Prachin Itihas, reveal that the vav was constructed by Suryaraj Kalchuri, a general of the Gurjar Kingdom. The name ‘Navlakhi’ derives from the 9 lakh gold coins used in its construction.

The vav was restored by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, which allowed access to its lowest floors. Originally used to supply drinking water to the Lukshmi Vilas Palace, it now provides water to the Golf Course.

Sevasi Vav (Vidhyadhar Vav)

Located on the outskirts of Baroda, on the way to Sindhrot, Sevasi Vav is over 500 years old and was built during the time of Sultan Mehmud Begada, around 1496 AD. It was constructed to honor a spiritual leader named Vidyadhar, who was revered in the Sevasi village.

This vav is noted for its blend of brick masonry and stone columns, extending seven levels underground. The east-west oriented structure is adorned with motifs of torans, flowers, and animals. The entrance features a gate-like structure with a dome, decorated with reliefs of elephants and tigers. Sadly, due to lack of security, the vav has suffered damage from vandalism and neglect, including the defacement of frescoes and deterioration caused by acid and moisture.

Tandalja Vav

Believed to have been built during the Gaekwadi era over 200 years ago, Tandalja Vav has suffered from neglect as housing societies have developed around it. In 2014, the dome at the entrance was demolished, taking with it artistic murals depicting gods, animals, and historical narratives.

Once a vital water source for local residents, the vav is now in a state of disrepair, with contaminated water and surrounding garbage.

Saptamukhi Vav

Located in Dabhoi, on the banks of Dabhoi Talav, the Saptamukhi Vav dates back to the 13th century. The vav’s design suggests it was a ‘jaya’ type stepwell, accessible from three sides.

The structure was originally enhanced with carvings of gods and jharokha motifs. Currently, it lies in ruins, with broken pillars and littered surroundings, reflecting the need for preservation efforts.

Other Notable Stepwells

Here are additional stepwells in and around Baroda:

Khanderao or Siddhnath Stepwell (located near Siddhnath Mahadev Temple)

Koyali Stepwell

Hetampura Stepwell

Kelanpur Stepwell

Sayaji Vav (located near Yavteshwar Mahadev Temple)

Dumad Chowkdi Vav

Urmi School Vav (located near Sama Lake)

Asoj Vav

Gorwa Stepwell

Kadak Bazaar Vav (Demolished)