Studying the Conservation Status of “Vedis” – The Cultural Heritage of the Holy City of Gaya, Bihar 

By : Dweepika S. Singh , Meenakshi Prasad , Fouzia Rahman

Page No: 250-268

Abstract
Sacredscapes represent landscapes imbued with religious and spiritual meaning, where natural and supernatural realms intersect through rituals and beliefs. The city of Gaya in Bihar, India, is one such sacredscape of exceptional significance in Hinduism, renowned as the most revered site for performing pind-daan—a core ritual intended to ensure the salvation of one’s ancestors. This ritual is conducted at sanctified sites known as vedis, which once numbered around 360 but have declined to 51 today. These vedis, dispersed across riverbanks, hilltops, lakes, and other landmarks, embody both tangible and intangible heritage and have been central to Gaya’s religious, cultural, and economic life for centuries. However, urbanisation, neglect, and lack of awareness now threaten their existence. This study undertakes a systematic documentation and conservation assessment of all existing vedis in and around Gaya through on-site surveys, caretaker interviews, geo-tagging, and the creation of a GIS-based spatial database. By integrating cultural heritage analysis with geospatial mapping, the research seeks to enhance visibility of lesser-known vedis, increase equitable visitor footfall, and encourage active participation from communities and government in their preservation. Findings reveal significant variation in preservation quality, influenced by factors such as size, accessibility, amenities, caretaker presence, community engagement, religious significance, and government initiatives like HRIDAY. The paper concludes with recommendations for heritage management strategies that integrate digital mapping, awareness generation, and policy support to safeguard this sacredscape for future generations.

Authors: 
Dweepika S. Singh : P.G. Dept. of Geography, Maharaja College, V.K.S.U., Ara, Bihar,
Meenakshi Prasad : P.G. Dept. of Geography, Magadh University, Bodh Gaya, Bihar,:
Fouzia Rahman : P.G. Dept. of Geography, V.K.S.U., Ara, Bihar,
 

DOI: https://doi.org/10.32381/ATNAGI.2025.45.02.2