Sabarmati River
The original name of this river is Shubhramati which has two important connotations in it’s meaning. They are: ‘a meandering river’ or ‘a white river’. Over a period, Sabarmati, due to the fact that it remained dry most year around, became a utilitarian ground and a familiar sight of multiple activities, both abusive as well as innocent. Like many other cities on the riverbanks, Ahmedabad had a symbolic rural image due to river Sabarmati. Sand quarrying, fabric and garment washing, animal activities, small time agriculture and seasonal festivities such as circus, fairs and religious celebrations and permanent activities such as the Sunday Market. Controversies that surround the Sabarmati Riverfront Development Project stem from certain economically argued emotional attachment of some citizen groups; however, it is possible to accommodate most of the positive activities within the new development. I see this project as an argument ground, a case study for understanding the Indian version of modernity.