In the most crowded areas of the old textile city of Ahmedabad, we find these pols. They are a legacy of Gujarat’s history of successive invasions. To ensure security, the point of entry to each pol is through restricted gates. Within the pol, the tightly-packed conglomeration of houses is articulated by a complex system of open spaces – sensitively reflecting the cultural and religious needs of the community.

Aerial view shows long dark areas which constitute the pols. Very high population densities prevail here, with 10,000 people in Mandvi Pol alone.
Aerial view shows long dark areas which constitute the pols. Very high population densities prevail here, with 10,000 people in Mandvi Pol alone.
Within the pols, some houses are very large and comfortable, as this interior courtyard demonstrates.
Within the pols, some houses are very large and comfortable, as this interior courtyard demonstrates.
A woman performs her household chores outdoors. From the pol’s main street, a number of cul-de-sacs lead off and most residents regard these lanes as extensions of their houses.
A woman performs her household chores outdoors. From the pol’s main street, a number of cul-de-sacs lead off and most residents regard these lanes as extensions of their houses.

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"Manusha – Architecture as the measure of man." In Vistāra - The Architecture of India, Catalogue of the Exhibition, edited by Carmen Kagal, 14-31. The Festival of India, 1986.