@misc{Kaliamoorthy2023, type = {Master Thesis}, author = {Kaliamoorthy, Raghuram}, title = {Water heritage Varanasi : an integrated conservation and development project for reviving the sacred waters and heritage ecologies}, doi = {10.26127/BTUOpen-6526}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:kobv:co1-opus4-65267}, school = {BTU Cottbus - Senftenberg}, year = {2023}, abstract = {Water has been a pivotal force in the growth and sustenance of cities, playing a vital role in human survival. In India, a nation blessed with abundant resources, traditional water management systems have been efficiently employed. The significance of water in Hinduism extends beyond the practical, intertwining with religious beliefs and the cosmic cycle of Hindu myths. Cities in India have historically developed along rivers and water bodies, evolving into sacred sites that embody the nation's cultural legacy. However, the rapid urbanization and modernization sweeping through India pose a formidable threat to these sacred cities, eroding their identity. Varanasi, often considered a microcosm of Indian heritage, is undergoing profound changes in its sacred landscape due to colonial policies and modern development. This transformation is evident in the diminishing catchment ecologies and the changing land use patterns over the past two decades. This research focuses on Varanasi's water system as a key element in preserving its sacred landscape, intertwined with social, cultural, religious, and ecological dimensions. The study delves into the diverse typologies of water bodies spread across Varanasi, aiming to comprehend their transformations. The objective is to formulate a conservation and management plan that recognizes the intrinsic connection between Varanasi's sacred waters and its heritage ecologies. The research seeks to develop a comprehensive framework and integrated strategies, complete with a site-specific action plan. Using the Durga Kund area as a model, the study envisions and designs strategies for future development. By crafting a holistic, site-specific approach to revitalizing and preserving the city's sacred water resources, the research aims to elevate the importance of water management in Varanasi's overall management plan. The proposed framework can serve as a model for cities sharing strong religious beliefs and facing threats to their water infrastructure. It offers a blueprint for reviving and safeguarding sacredscapes through integrated water management, applicable at both the regional and city levels.}, subject = {Water system; Sacred Landscape; Varanasi; Heritage Ecologies; Integrated Strategies; Wassersystem; Heilige Landschaft; Varanasi; {\"O}kologisches Erbe; Integrierte Strategien; Varanasi; Wasserwirtschaft; Kulturerbe; Entwicklungsprojekt}, language = {en} }