Ponds are one of the few structures that have survived the times without losing their face even in the rush of modernization, demonstrating the excellence and perfection of the cultural identity of an era. Excellent examples of completely natural construction techniques, materials and environmental protection.
Long before the arrival of cement, which is the construction materialof today,this architecture of stone walls has been carried out through the steps of these water reservoirs, which have been completed using local construction materials such as red stone, granite, and the mud etc,Through the steps of these reservoirs made with local construction materials, this architecture of stone blocks has been carried on for centuries.
Today, there are very few people who know the science of the red and granite stone in Kulam Kettu.There are many such ponds attached to temples and houses and as public water reservoirs in the northern districts of Kerala such as Kannur and Kasargod.
To be precise, in the areas from Korapuzha near Vadakara to Chandragirippuzha in Kasargod. If we search a little more history, we can say that many such ponds were built during the reign of Kolathiri in Kolathunadu.
The chronology of many things is not so easy. The construction of these, which can also be described as the old model of rainwater tanks, is not completed in one or two months.It may take years.
These ponds, known as Step Wells, have the same construction method as the ancient wells. Lay the amla tree board (Nelli palaka) on the bottom and build the four sides on top of it. It does not have to be the same design on all four sides.
Many of the stones have different dimensions, and angles. You can also see corner works cut in a single stone.A solid construction technique of building one stone on top of another. It is noteworthy that they are not built with the help of machinery. You can enter the pond from all four sides.
Many water bodies range from six to seven cents to acres in area. Ponds and Kavus are the best examples of environmental protection ever, and the best example of architecture in the pre-mechanized world.
Courtesy
Architect.Shyam Kumar Kasargod
Robydas Travel Journalist