Ballari: It may not be aas impressive as the gigantic and splendid 15th century monuments at the world heritage site of Hampi, but the Kupaaramavatika well is vast and transports tourists back in time as they start stepping into its octagonal shape.
Located beside the gateway of Malapanagudi, a tiny village, 6 km from Hampi, the well, which had remained neglected for decades, is now being restored by the Archeological Survey of India (ASI).
Popularly called Soolai Bhavi (prostitute’s well ), it is believed to have got its name from a dancing girl (or courtesan), who is said to have entertained travellers here on their way to the Vijaynagar capital.
Like Queens Bath and Lotus Mahal, the erstwhile capital has many secular buildings with Islamic features. The Kupaaramavatika well has been designed in the Indo-Saracenic style and has a series of steps leading down to the water. Each of its walls has an arch in the middle facing a water body.
The ASI,which has developed a garden around the well. is restoring the damaged parts of this monument, taking care not to affect its original architecture and style.
When contacted, ASI authorities said conservation of all the monuments on the Hampi site was a continuous process. “Essential conservation work is done on them regularly,” said one officer.
