Resource Person/ Facilitator:
Mr. Abhijit Jagtap (Alumni and Current staff)

Summary:

The Ranjeshwar Temple, located in Khed Shivapur, Pune, is a historic and culturally significant temple. The purpose of this site visit was to inspect the civil engineering attributes of the structure with a focus on the traditional construction methods and materials used. Particular emphasis was placed on Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS), which play an essential role in the sustainable and culturally relevant construction practices of such temples.

Objective/Purpose:

The primary objective of the site visit to Ranjeshwar Temple, located in Khed Shivapur, Pune, was to inspect and assess the civil engineering attributes of the temple, specifically focusing on the traditional building materials and construction techniques used in the structure. The visit aimed to:

1. Investigate the role of Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) in the temple’s construction, especially in terms of material selection, design, and sustainable building practices.
2. Understand how traditional construction methods have contributed to the longevity and stability of the temple.
3. Evaluate the current condition of the temple’s structure, identifying areas that might require preservation or restoration efforts while maintaining the integrity of its IKS-based construction.
4. Assess the potential for integrating traditional construction wisdom with modern engineering practices for future conservation and construction projects.

Outcomes:

The site visit provided valuable insights into the civil engineering attributes of Ranjeshwar Temple, particularly with respect to the incorporation of Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS). The key outcomes are as follows:

A. Building Materials and Construction Techniques:

1. The temple was constructed using locally sourced materials, including granite, sandstone, lime mortar, and clay tiles, showcasing an inherent knowledge of sustainable sourcing and environmental harmony.
2. Traditional methods such as dry stone masonry, corbel vaulting, and handcrafted stone carvings were observed, demonstrating the long-standing engineering expertise embedded in local construction practices.
3. The use of breathable materials like lime mortar and clay tiles helps regulate indoor temperature, a practice aligned with ancient principles of passive cooling and energy efficiency.

B. Structural Integrity and Durability:

1. Despite the age of the temple, the structure remains resilient due to its design, choice of materials, and construction methods rooted in IKS.
2. Minor repairs are required, particularly for stone facades and wooden beams, but overall, the temple’s architecture has withstood the test of time, indicating the success of traditional construction techniques in creating enduring structures.

C. Sustainability and Climate Adaptation:

1. The construction techniques of the temple reflect a profound understanding of the local climate, with materials and designs that naturally protect the temple from extreme weather conditions, ensuring sustainability without reliance on modern technologies.

D. Cultural Significance and Preservation:

1. The temple’s design and construction methods are deeply tied to local cultural and religious practices, with architectural elements that align with vastu shastra and local customs.
2. Indigenous craftsmanship, including intricate stone carvings and woodwork, emphasizes the importance of preserving traditional skills and knowledge.

E. Recommendations for Future Preservation:

1. It is recommended to adopt a preservation strategy that respects the original construction techniques and materials, while incorporating modern civil engineering methods to ensure the temple’s continued structural integrity.
2. There is a need to promote awareness and training programs for local artisans to preserve traditional construction skills.
3. Sustainable construction practices based on IKS should be further explored and integrated into modern building projects to promote eco-friendly and culturally sensitive designs.