Tourism Minister Jupally Krishna Rao inaugurates the restored Adikmet Stepwell in Hyderabad and launches Baoli Art Sangam, a major cultural initiative across Telangana.
The restored Adikmet Stepwell, also known as Metla Bavi, located within the Osmania University campus in Hyderabad, was formally inaugurated on World Heritage Day, marking a key development in the State’s efforts to conserve historic water structures.
The stepwell, estimated to be around 300 years old and dating back to the 18th century, had fallen into disuse and was previously reduced to a dumping ground. It has now been restored following three years of conservation work undertaken by the Society for Advancement of Human Endeavour in collaboration with the Government of Telangana and with financial support from Dodla Dairy. Officials described the project as an example of a public private community partnership in heritage restoration.
The inauguration was carried out by Tourism Minister Jupally Krishna Rao, who also unveiled the logo of the Baoli Art Sangam initiative. Speaking at the event, the Minister said the restoration of stepwells reflects the government’s focus on preserving traditional water systems alongside promoting tourism. “Such projects revive not only heritage structures but also the ecological knowledge embedded in them. Telangana will continue to support initiatives that integrate conservation with community participation,” he said.
Vice Chancellor Prof. Kumar Molugaram attended the event along with Sunil Reddy and D. Dodla Reddy. Representatives from the implementing and partner organisations were also present.
The event also marked the formal launch of Baoli Art Sangam, a biennial initiative founded by Annapurna Madipadiga and Kalpana Ramesh. The initiative aims to activate restored stepwells and similar heritage sites as public cultural spaces through art, architecture, and community programming.
Organisers said the first edition of Baoli Art Sangam will be held from December 1 to 31 across 13 heritage sites in Telangana. The programme is expected to include exhibitions, performances, heritage walks, installations, and public lectures.
According to the founders, the initiative seeks to position stepwells as sites of contemporary relevance while highlighting their historical, architectural, and ecological significance.
Officials said the restoration of the Adikmet Stepwell and the launch of Baoli Art Sangam together signal a broader approach to heritage conservation in Telangana, combining preservation with public engagement and sustainable use.
