Mappping Elements that Contribute to the Place Identity of Rajwada Chowk in Indore

Abstract

Place Identity is a product of people, places (physical setting), and the experiences they have in them because of the activities the place is associated with. It is not restricted to the physical characteristics of a place but is a consolidation of the social and cultural values the place offers. Any experience in a place is influenced by and influences the way people identify with it. With the onset of urbanization, cities across the world are rapidly transforming following the same principles of development without considering their local context or historical background which has led to a homogeneity in the build environment and an increasing sense of placelessness. Person-place bonds have become weaker and our connections with places have turned fragile in the dawn of globalization. This has led multiple researchers from varying fields to study public spaces, what works in them and what all can be done to promote healthy public life in cities. Planners and designers have a key role to play in the quality of life that a public space fosters, as the physical conditions and social interaction in a space are codependent on each other. Rajwada Chowk in Indore is an important public space with rich history and cultural significance. This study aims at understanding the attributes which help in forming its place identity. The location, context, physical setting and character along with the kind of activities that take place in the chowk are some of the factors which are explored to understand place identity. The way in which public life unfolds in the chowk from its commercial use to spaces which offer respite, the chowk is the central hub of all the hustle and bustle in the city. It is a place for people to gather and celebrate, a place which ties the city and its people together. It is important to identify and preserve elements which add meaning to the place and create strong associations so as to create lively public spaces. The central location of Rajwada, the urban pattern, build form, land use, the different types of activities offered, edge conditions and easy accessibility are some of the physical features along with its cultural and historical significance that contribute to its place identity. Keywords : Place Identity, Rajwada Chowk, Public Places, Activities,Meanings