Who is 'Paagal Saab'? Even at 80, and despite being called 'mad', this Irishman has made it his life's mission and obsession to clean Jodhpur's Bawris & Jhalaras

In a world where neglected heritage sites often fade into the background, one unlikely conservationist has captured hearts across India. Known locally as "Paagal Saab", 80-year-old Irishman Caron Rawnsley has spent more than a decade cleaning and restoring Jodhpur's historic bawris (stepwells) and jhalaras (traditional water reservoirs). What began as a tourist's admiration for Rajasthan's architectural treasures has evolved into a lifelong mission, one that recently drew heartfelt praise from Mahindra Group Chairman Anand Mahindra.

Who is 'Paagal Saab'?

Caron Rawnsley is an 80-year-old Irish heritage enthusiast who has dedicated over ten years to reviving Jodhpur's centuries-old stepwells. Locals affectionately call him "Paagal Saab", or "Mad Sir", because of his extraordinary determination to clean water structures that many had long forgotten.

Rather than simply admiring Rajasthan's heritage, Rawnsley chose to preserve it. Working largely with his own hands, he has helped clean and restore several historic stepwells that had become clogged with rubbish and neglect.

How did Caron Rawnsley's mission begin?

According to The Better India, Rawnsley's journey started during a visit to Jodhpur as a tourist. While exploring the city's ancient stepwells, he was struck by both their architectural beauty and their neglected condition.

Historically, these stepwells served far more than a practical purpose. They were vital sources of water in Rajasthan's arid climate and functioned as community gathering spaces, reflecting the region's rich cultural heritage.

Over time, however, changing lifestyles and urbanisation left many of these structures abandoned and filled with waste.

Instead of walking away, Rawnsley decided to do something about it.

Restoring Jodhpur's forgotten water heritage

Over the years, Rawnsley has worked to restore around 10 historic stepwells, including Rambauri and Gulab Sagar.

His efforts have involved manually removing rubbish, clearing debris and encouraging local communities to value these historic water bodies once again.

As awareness of his work grew, volunteers, donors and conservation supporters gradually joined the initiative, helping expand the restoration efforts.

Anand Mahindra salutes 'Paagal Saab'

Rawnsley's work recently received national attention after Anand Mahindra shared his story on X.

Referring to the affectionate nickname given to the Irish conservationist, Mahindra wrote: "They nicknamed 80-year-old Irishman, Caron Rawnsley, 'Paagal Saab' for his obsession with cleaning Jodhpur's Bawris & Jhalaras."

Mahindra added that preserving India's historic stepwells should not require someone to be seen as "paagal" or even be a foreigner.

He wrote: "Fortunately, today, you don't need to be either 'paagal' or 'phirang' to devote yourself to reviving India's stepwells."

The industrialist also recalled highlighting the well-maintained Chand Baori earlier this year and praised the growing movement to restore India's traditional water systems.

Anand Mahindra highlights India's conservation movement

In his post, Mahindra acknowledged several individuals and organisations working to protect India's historic water heritage.

He praised conservationists such as Rajendra Singh and Kalpana Ramesh, along with organisations including Tarun Bharat Sangh and Project Bawri, as well as countless volunteers and village communities restoring stepwells across the country.

Calling Rawnsley's contribution an inspiration, Mahindra wrote: "But I still want to salute Paagal Saab Caron, for his love of Jodhpur and his selflessness and passion for our heritage. May his work never cease…"

He concluded with a line that resonated widely on social media: "When 'paagal' means obsessed with doing something good, it is the highest compliment one can receive!"

Why preserving stepwells matters: Caron Rawnsley's message

Stepwells are among India's most remarkable architectural and engineering achievements. Built centuries ago, they collected and stored rainwater while serving as social, cultural and spiritual spaces.

Today, conservationists see them not only as heritage monuments but also as important examples of sustainable water management, particularly as climate change and water scarcity become pressing concerns.

Despite the recognition, Rawnsley has repeatedly emphasised that his mission is about protecting history rather than seeking personal attention.

He believes these ancient water structures can help educate future generations about conservation, environmental responsibility and the importance of preserving natural resources.