The Balaji Temple (Temple of Steps), nestled amidst Cotton and chilly farms in Nandyal, aimed to marry socio-cultural expectations with ecological dynamics. Groundwater recharge began by directing water overflow to a low-lying ‘kund,’ envisioned as a social space resembling traditional ghats. Inspired by 10th-century Tirupathi temples, it features Balaji & Varahaswamy shrines and a Pushkarini. Locally sourced black limestone slabs form the temple’s core, with corbelled profiles incorporating soil and planting for natural cooling. These profiles extend into steps accessing the water, echoing India’s architectural heritage seen in Benaras ghats. This synthesis of land and water not only sustains ecological balance but also honors cultural traditions, creating a harmonious temple environment.
