The study makes an attempt to understand Panchakki (the water mill) in a comprehensive way, unfolding the age-old technique to access and manage water in response to geo-cultural context. Panchakki represents a water system that emerged from the need to manage water in present-day Aurangabad city. Planned and designed as an integrated structure of socio-cultural life and natural components, it represents the human–nature relationship crafted through traditional wisdom. To the present day, the layered complex, the system and the entire watershed undergo transformation, posing a threat through multiple dimensions and questioning their relevance in the current setting.
An extensive literature study, in-depth structured interviews, site survey and mapping are the methodological tools for this work. The main research material is derived from the detailed documentation of the watermill complex, system and its architectural character to investigate the various aspects and layers around the management of resources.
Overridden by several factors, the watermill and associated system struggle for existence in the expanding sprawl of the city. Conservation of Panchakki thus becomes a need with reference to its significance as a natural resource, sustainable system, cultural expression and architectural merit.
The study is focused on the derivation of an approach towards understanding a unique phenomenon representing the nature–culture link in a specific context shaping the peculiar character of a regional landscape. It also develops a set of conjectural revival guidelines for the watermill complex of Panchakki with reference to the regional geo-cultural context at Aurangabad.
