Enquire into Role played by Architecture Elements in Shaping People’s Place Attachment Narratives [The case of Sacred Pond in Narayan Sarovar, Kutch]

Abstract

Hindu mythology attaches great importance to water, which is a symbol of eternity, power, and life. It isregarded as a cleanser and has a strong connection to holy places. Hindu temple and city planning has historically placed a strong emphasis on both natural and man-made water features, reflecting the religion’s close relationship with water. As cities grow, water’s value and utility have increased. Water sources are sacred and functional, thus people do a lot around them. Since water has always been part of design, architecture and water have a long history. Designers believe water enriches open spaces and fosters connection between them. They think that adding water to open spaces makes them more appealing and encourages interaction. Through its sound, fragrance, touch, or sight, water may have a calming impact on the mental state. In Hindu mythology, sacred ponds, or sarovars, are likewise admired as givers of purity and miracles, and sacred rivers have a special importance. There is a strong bond between human culture and water bodies that is established via many ceremonies and performances. Various rituals and performances establish a intense connection between water bodies and human society. In this perspective, architectural features are crucial because they act as major thresholds that link individuals to sacred waters. This thesis focuses on documenting and examining the role of architectural elements in encouraging a sense of place attachment among people towards the sacred pond. . The focus of the study is Narayan Sarovar, which is situated in the Kutch region’s Lakhpat Taluka. Narayan Sarovar is one of the five holy lakes that make up the Panch-Sarovar according to Hindu mythology. The sacred sarovar is connected to a number of ritual actions carried out by particular communities throughout the year, with festivals serving as a focal point for these events. This study examines how the Sacred Pond’s architecture and people’s perceptions and experiences affect place attachment.