The stepwell that these women are climbing is an apt image to mark World Water Day. Stepwells originated in western India over a thousand years ago as way for locals in that arid climate to easily and reliably access fresh water—even during the driest months. The Panna Meena Ka Kund stepwell in Jaipur is a classic example of the beautiful, regular, geometric architecture used to produce these useful public works. Most stepwells also feature shaded side chambers where locals (primarily women) can gather to escape the heat of the day.
Celebrating World Water Day
Today in History
More Desktop Wallpapers:
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Mid-Autumn Festival
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1953 Mount Everest Expedition
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The story of a rediscovered redwood
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A seabird gets schooled
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Celebrating Flag Day
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Digging the birds
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Brooklyn Bridge, New York City
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‘Fringe’ takes center stage as Edinburgh celebrates the arts
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Tibetan New Year
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Autumn comes to the Porcupines
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World Migratory Bird Day
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Squirrel Appreciation Day
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Spectacled bear resting in tree, Ecuador
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Trunks stick together
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Whooper swans, Kotoku Pond, Japan
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The long and wiggling path
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Space-age style by the sea
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World Theater Day
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In celebration of America’s national bird
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Preservation Hall in New Orleans, Louisiana
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Seven Magic Mountains art installation, Jean Dry Lake, Nevada
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Ah Shi Sle Pah Wilderness, New Mexico
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Fibonacci Day
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Bidding summer adieu
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St. Patricks Day
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Happy Fathers Day!
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Entoloma hochstetteri mushroom at Lake Mahinapua, New Zealand
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Daylight saving time begins
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Three Natural Bridges, Wulong Karst, China
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Have a ‘beary’ good Earth Day
Bing Wallpaper Gallery

