Hampi’s Timeless Oasis: Shama Pawar’s Artistic Sanctuary
In Anegundi near Hampi, Shama Pawar’s courtyard home reflects her passion for heritage and craft. Her transformative journey began with a sunrise visit to Hampi, a gift from her father that inspired her deep connection to the land.
In 1995, Pawar and her artist husband, Adam Shapiro, relocated to Anegundi to build their home. By 1997, she established the Kishkinda Trust to boost local village economies using available resources.
A short visit to Hampi ignited Pawar’s dedication to heritage preservation and sustainable design.
Become a Premium Member to access our exclusive contents: https://authindia.com/premium-community-membership/ 
Now, the Kishkinda Trust collaborates with over 700 artisans, crafting unique pieces from banana fibers and water hyacinths. Recently, women artisans designed a stunning backdrop for Hyatt Place Hampi, blending artistry and teamwork.
Pawar’s home and studio reflect her dedication to community and tradition. Designed with a central open courtyard, the house is surrounded by lemon orchards and celebrates both craft and nature. The courtyard is often alive with local women artisans creating diverse handmade items, while Pawar cherishes the creative process that brings craft to life.
Pawar is cultivating a nursery to explore vetiver’s benefits for riverbank conservation. Her home, blending local wisdom and artistry, features a thatched roof made from toddy palm leaves, inspired by nearby potters.
Pawar reminisces about Anegundi’s past, when she crossed the river in a coracle to use a phone. She notes how the river’s serene spirituality is now overshadowed by noisy development. As a subtle protest, she’s designing a bridge from gongura fiber. For her, Anegundi—gifted by her father—symbolizes lasting beauty and sustainability.
Photographs by Krishna Tangirala | https://www.architecturaldigest.in/story/a-heritage-conservationists-home-in-hampi-with-a-courtyard-is-a-beautiful-manifestation-painter-and-founder-of-the-kishkinda-trust-shama-pawar/
