Mahima Kulkarni

Resurgence of the caves

Mahima Kulkarni
1315458
Arch 701B-II
Prof. Sandra Manninger
MS in Architecture, Computational Technologies
School of Architecture and Design
New York Institute of Technology
Spring 2023

The aim of the project was to analyze a known context and develop a relation between the beguiling urban and social landscape and the the cultural overlap in the city, Nashik, which is located a few hundred miles from the west coast in India.

Nashik, Wine capital of India

Nashik valley wines are specially protected under the patent of the Geographical Indication in India for the region of Nashik district in Maharashtra, India, where it is produced from several vineyards and the Sula wine is one of the major producer of Wines in Nashik. The wine is produced in two types: red and white.

Pandavleni Caves, Nashik, India

Pandavleni caves were the meeting places for monks to pray and study Buddha or Buddhism. Inside the Buddha leni are the statues of Buddha and the inscriptions dating to the period of 3 kingdoms: the Kshatrapas, the Satavahanas, and the Abhirs.

Nasik or the Pandavleni caves are a group of ancient holy Buddhist caves which were constructed between 250BC and 600AD. These caves have been carved out of rocks and belong to the category of rock-cut cave architecture.

Translation between mountains, caves and wine tasting rooms

Identification of design problem:
Currently the caves are used in the early part of the day and the evening where people come her for treks, a morning jog, picnics or to visit a temple.
The caves are located on the outskirts of the city and they are deserted during the later part of the day.

This gives the site a chance to be a spot for criminal activities, hence the space can be easily utilized by hosting wine tasting in the caves which will help the local businesses and will boost the tourism.

Buddhist Columns

In both Buddhism and Hinduism, the pillar symbolized the axis mundi (the axis on which the world spins). The pillars and edicts represent the first physical evidence of the Buddhist faith. The inscriptions assert Ashoka’s Buddhism and support his desire to spread the dharma throughout his kingdom.

Translation between the existing conditions of caves and the AI interpretation of the Column

Within this captivating scene, the Stone Column Ruins evoke a sense of ancient craftsmanship and architectural mastery. The columns, while weathered, still maintain a remarkable structural integrity, their positions defying gravity and time itself. Each column, meticulously placed, supports the weight of the cave above, creating a mesmerizing interplay of light and shadow.

These columns not only support the weight of the cave ceiling but also add an aesthetic charm that adds to the overall beauty of the site.

Fabrication

Broken columns in caves refer to the fractured or fragmented formations of stalactites or stalagmites that have been separated or damaged due to natural or human-induced causes. These columns, which are typically composed of mineral deposits such as calcite, form over long periods of time through the slow dripping of water containing dissolved minerals. The mineral-rich water deposits minerals layer by layer, eventually creating elongated formations.

The significance of broken columns in caves lies in the valuable information they can provide about the history and geological processes of the cave environment. Here are a few points to consider regarding their importance:

Geological History
Broken columns can offer insights into the geological history of the cave system. By examining their fractures and patterns, geologists can infer the forces and processes that led to their breakage. This information helps in understanding the past seismic activity, tectonic movements, or other geological events that have shaped the cave over time.
Environmental Changes
Changes in the environment, such as alterations in water flow, temperature, or humidity, can affect the stability of columns. The presence of broken columns indicates shifts in the cave ecosystem and can be used as indicators of environmental changes. Scientists can study these changes to understand the impact of factors like climate change or human activities on the cave environment.
Human Activities
Broken columns can also result from human interactions with caves. Vandalism, careless exploration, or accidental damage caused by visitors can lead to broken formations. The presence of such damage can raise awareness about the importance of cave conservation and the need to protect these delicate and fragile underground ecosystems.
Cave Conservation
Broken columns serve as reminders of the vulnerability of cave formations and the need for conservation efforts. Understanding the causes of breakage can help develop strategies to preserve caves and educate people about responsible cave exploration practices. Preserving the integrity of cave formations is crucial to maintain the aesthetic value and scientific significance of these natural wonders.