Reclamation of Kunds on Govardhan Hill, Braj
Keywords:
sacred landscape, Govardhan kunds, pilgrimage ecology, ritual water bodies, Braj region, heritage restoration, hydrology and religion, mythic cartography, environmental design, cultural preservationAbstract
The article “Reclamation of Kunds on Govardhan Hill, Braj” by Amita Sinha addresses the intersection of sacred landscape, ecology, and cultural heritage through the lens of kunds—ritual water bodies—surrounding Govardhana Hill. Sinha examines historical cartography, textual references, and contemporary efforts in restoring these sacred sites. The article details the role kunds play in pilgrimage practice, mythic storytelling, and the ecological health of Braj. Through her analysis, Sinha advocates for heritage-sensitive development that preserves the devotional and environmental value of Govardhana’s landscape, emphasizing the importance of hydrological networks in sustaining sacred geography.