Adalaj ki Vav

Adalaj ki Vav is a magnificent stepwell located near Ahmedabad, Gujarat. Its story blends architecture, devotion, love, and sacrifice.

In the 15th century (around 1499 CE), the stepwell was commissioned by Queen Rudabai (Rani Roopba), the wife of Rana Veer Singh, the Vaghela ruler of Dandai Desh. The region often suffered from water scarcity, so the queen decided to build a grand vav (stepwell) to provide water to people throughout the year.

However, before the construction was completed, Sultan Mahmud Begada, the ruler of Gujarat, attacked the kingdom. Rana Veer Singh was killed in battle. Impressed by the beauty and intelligence of Queen Rudabai, Mahmud Begada wished to marry her and promised to complete the stepwell in return.

The queen agreed—on one condition: that the stepwell must be completed before the marriage.

Mahmud Begada kept his word and completed the Adalaj Vav, employing the finest artisans. The structure turned out to be an architectural masterpiece, blending Hindu and Islamic styles, with intricate carvings of gods, flowers, animals, and daily-life scenes.

But once the stepwell was completed, Queen Rudabai chose honor over power. Instead of marrying the Sultan, she jumped into the vav and sacrificed her life.

Thus, Adalaj ki Vav stands not just as a water structure, but as a symbol of courage, dignity, and self-respect.