Friday, September 10, 2010
Divine Kunds (Water Ponds)

Braj is a home of over 1000 beautiful historic kunds (water tanks). A large number of them are over 5000 year old and are mentioned in the folklores related to Shri Shri Radha Krishna’s pastimes. They conserve rainwater and thereby allow the sub-soil water table to be maintained. They have traditionally been used to irrigate local fields and orchards and have sustained the local populace in the drought-hit years.

Of the 1000 kunds in Braj Dham, today, approximately 300 are visible. The rest of them have silted and dried up to the point where they can no longer be recognized. Many of the approximately 300 which are observable have been converted into garbage dumps or sludge tanks. The embankments (ghats) of most of the kunds are in a dilapidated condition. The beautiful architectural constructions and chhataris around them are in a very poor state and badly need repair. Catchments areas and land surrounding the Kunds have been encroached at many places. Many of these kunds are a natural habitat for numerous migratory birds, for example the Darshan Sarovar in the village Badhauta is a wonderful sanctuary for birds.

After this preliminary restoration the beautification and maintenance of the Kund is carried on. This comprises of:

  • Plantation of conventional trees like Kadamb, Tamaal etc. all around the Kund.
  • Fencing around the Kund complex. Making lighting arrangements around the Kund.
  • Setting up a submersible pump so that the Kund water can be replenished in summers.
  • Kund guards to take care of the cleanliness and maintenance of the Kund.
  • Setting up a plaque depicting the spiritual and historical importance of the Kund.