The mere mention of Konaseema in the East
Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh is enough
to send one on a virtual trip and the mind recalls
lush green fields with the paddy stalks dancing
to the tune of the wind, endless rows of coconut
 trees
and canals flowing with water. Undoubtedly, a sight
that will remain etched in one's memory for a long
time. Shilparamam, the Arts and Crafts Village
in Madhapur on the city's outskirts is known
for its innovative ideas, as a place that can offer
people living in the concrete jungle a breath of
fresh air.
The latest offering from Shilparamam is "Shilpaseema",
an oval-shaped canal with an island in the middle,
connected by a wooden bridge. This 10-acre stretch
of land that has undergone a remarkable transformation,
resembling Konaseema to the core, was unveiled to
Hyderabadis recently. Enter this stretch and one
is first greeted with lotus pond, followed by another
small water body. Amble on, and one enters "Shilpaseema",
with coconut trees all around, the enchanting canal
with its sandy bund and a couple of boats waiting
to take visitors on a ride they would surely cherish
for some time.
"It took two months of work and about Rs. 15 lakhs
to bring Konaseema here", says G Kishan Rao,
Special Officer, Shilparamam. The Rs. 10 that we
charge for the 20-metre long boat ride that takes
15 minutes is surely affordable by one and all",
he asserts.
An interesting aspect of Konaseema is that the water
bodies have been made entirely of rainwater that
has been harvested during this season. Shilpaseema
is in a valley between two hillocks in the pristine
environs of Shilparamam. In all, 14 inflow ducts
have been designed to bring water to the canal.
The most appealing factor is the absolute peace
that one can in this part of Shilparamam. It may
be recalled that while the village has typed it
as a place for calm and quiet, the shopping arcades
are quite crowded, especially during the festive
season. People can simply walk in to this part of
the village and let blissful calm envelop them.
(Read more about Shilparamam here)
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