Abstract:
Varanasi also was known as Kashi, Avimukta, or Banaras is a city of celebration where every action, good or bad is being celebrated. It is a place where life continues due to the presence of three rivers, and other manmade water bodies. All the waterbodies in Varanasi are named after sacred Gods to understand its importance and preserve them. One of the major reason behind the attraction of people towards Varanasi is the sacredness of water in the form of rivers, talabs, kunds, wells, and other water sources. The place has the importance of myths, beliefs, and faith where pilgrim activities take place almost every day and month. The practices because of the myths and beliefs are the essence of the place. It has a high association with the pilgrims which is the reason behind the continuity of yatra routes. Due to this, there is the existence of living religious sites which are at least 3000 years old. Background study has been done to understand the context of the Panchkroshi yatra, the associated 108 shrines and the importance of yatra route along with the resting places on the journey. The uniqueness of major halts and its importance in making Kashi kshetra as the sacred area. Further, the major focus is on the analysis of the first halt i.e. Kardameshvara temple and kund surrounding and its changing scenario over time. The first halt of Panchkroshi yatra in Varanasi has the high historical, cultural, religious, and natural values. The study also focuses on the manmade water structures like kunds, which are associated with pilgrim activities. The Kardam kund, Varanasi is also a part of the third most important river of Varanasi i.e. Asi (now turned into a Nala). The importance of kund and its connection with the cultural practices in daily life and during festivals in the present day scenario are analyzed. Also, the most important part is the heritage components like dharamshala, chatri structures etc. that can be found in this area, which enhances the religious and cultural values of the site. These components are interdepended and interrelated to each other. The thesis aims to study and document this heritage component at the site including its relation to people and use. Followed by the issues and analysis for the proposals of conservation and management plan.
