Kalyanis, also called temple tanks, formed the heart of community water systems across Karnataka. Beyond their practical role in storing water, they were places where culture, ecology, and social life converged.
However, several Kalyanis face challenges ranging from siltation and encroachment to declining groundwater and changing water-use practices.
The Kalyani Widget is a comprehensive GIS-based platform designed as a citizen science initiative to identify and record the present status of step wells and Kalyanis across various regions.
This initiative aims to inform community action and policy engagement, encouraging the restoration and stewardship of these important water harvesting structures.
You can contribute by uploading photographs, documents, and information about a Kalyani in your neighbourhood. Each entry supports awareness, conservation, and restoration efforts.
Restoring Kalyanis is not only about water conservation — it is about community stewardship, heritage, and resilient local ecosystems.
Come be part of this initiative!