Gujarat: Rani Ki Vav's 3D projection mapping show wins gold at WOW Awards Asia 2026
Gandhinagar/Patan, July 14 The 3D projection mapping show at Gujarat's UNESCO World Heritage Site of Rani Ki Vav has received a Gold Award at the 17th WOW Awards Asia 2026, marking national recognition for the state's use of immersive audio-visual technology to present one of India's most significant heritage monuments.
The project, located at the 11th-century stepwell in Patan, won the honour in the "Experiential Tech Awards - Achievement in Audio-Visual for an Event" category at the annual awards, which recognise excellence in the events and experiential technology industry.
According to the state government, more than 44,209 visitors had experienced the projection mapping show as of July 12, reflecting growing public interest since it was launched earlier this year.
Rani Ki Vav, inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014, is regarded as one of India's finest examples of stepwell architecture and attracts large numbers of domestic and international visitors each year.
To enhance the visitor experience, the state government completed the permanent installation of a advanced 3D projection mapping show and heritage lighting system at the monument.
The project was virtually inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on March 31, following which the appointed agency assumed responsibility for operating and maintaining the installation.
The government said the implementing agency had submitted the project for nomination at the WOW Awards Asia 2026, where it secured the Gold Award.
The recognition was presented in acknowledgement of the project's use of audio-visual technology to interpret the historical and cultural significance of the heritage site through an immersive visitor experience.
The projection mapping installation combines large-scale visual effects with heritage lighting to narrate the history and architectural legacy of Rani Ki Vav, a monument commissioned by Queen Udayamati in memory of King Bhima I of the Solanki dynasty.
The stepwell is widely recognised for its intricate stone carvings and engineering and has become one of Gujarat's most visited heritage attractions.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Gold award for Gujarat — proud moment indeed. But I wonder if the entry fee has gone up after all this tech upgrade. Many locals still can't afford to visit. Hope the government keeps it accessible for everyone, not just tourists.
As someone who visited Rani Ki Vav last year, I can say the stepwell itself is breathtaking. This projection show sounds incredible — mixing ancient craftsmanship with modern tech. India is doing heritage right! 🇮🇳
Excellent initiative! But I hope the permanent installation doesn't damage the original stone carvings. Heritage structures need careful handling of wiring and projectors. Also, 44,000 visitors is good, but let's see if numbers sustain beyond the novelty phase.
So proud of Gujarat's cultural push! I remember visiting Rani Ki Vav as a kid — it was serene but quiet. Now with this light-and-sound show, it's becoming a global attraction. Hope they add more storytelling about Queen Udayamati's vision behind the stepwell.
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