Medieval steps in Belagavi rejuvenated by NGOs, villagers

A medieval well that has been rejuvenated by the Pyaas Foundation at Mutaga village in Belagavi district is believed to date back to the Adilshahi or early Maratha period. | Photo credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

Members of Pyaas Foundation, a Belagavi-based NGO, cleaned a stepwell believed to be from the Adilshahi or early Maratha period in Mutaga village.

The stone-walled well has a circular base and can be reached by nearly 55 steps. The water is at least 70 feet below ground level.

Members and residents of Pyaas Foundation organized a sharamadana (volunteer effort) with the support of local agencies. A week-long joint effort led to the cleaning of this medieval body of water.

“The restoration project was made possible by a generous grant from Nitin Khota, an economist based in Belagavi. For nearly three decades, the well remained buried under layers of mud, sewage, debris, plastic waste and discarded bottles. The once neglected and forgotten structure has now emerged as a stunning reminder of the region’s architectural and cultural heritage,” said President Madhav Prabhu.

“Volunteers from the Pyaas Foundation cleaned the well to its original depth and further excavated another ten feet. Springs of fresh water were discovered at the bottom of the well. Preserved after years of neglect, these ancient aquifers continue to provide crystal clear water, proving the resilience of nature and traditional water systems. Equally enchanting are the local adoration stone pillars that adorn its archelders and its stone structures. Oral traditions also indicate that the site once served as a discreet meeting place for freedom fighters during India’s independence struggle,” Dr Prabhu said.

Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Roshan and other officers visited the rejuvenated well. He said efforts would be made to make it a tourist attraction.

Published – 4 Jul 2026 0:09 AM IST