Revival of an ancient pond

The rejuvenation of an ancient kalyani (holy pond) in Mandya Koppalu village of Srirangapatna taluk in Mandya district is the perfect example for the age-old adage ‘Where there is a will, there is a way’. This three-century-old, once defunct kalyani has seen the light of the day due to the efforts of villagers.

Apart from water, the depths of the kalyani also hold many historical facts. In the olden days, this kalyani was the main source of water for the village. It was constructed to cater mainly to the needs of travellers. It is believed that the pond was constructed during the era of either Kanteerava Narasaraja Wadiyar or Chikkadevaraja Wadiyar. Once upon a time, it is believed that there was a choultry situated adjacent to this pond, which served food to travellers. Today, in its place, a government school has come up, say locals.

The pond has been rejuvenated under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA). The gram panchayat of Arakere provided employment cards to the volunteers who worked in this regard.

Through this around three lakh rupees was generated. This money has been utilised for different revival works such as fencing, laying of steps and cement flooring of the kalyani. It suffices to say that the MGNREGA funds were utilised fruitfully for the rejuvenation of this sacred pond.

Built in a square shape, this pond is spread over an area of 75 square feet. For more than 20 days, about 25 villagers toiled to clear the pond of all the waste and turn it into a potable water source. Initially, the wild growth in and around the pond was removed. Then steps were laid all around the pond. From the bottom-most step, one can peer into the depth of the kalyani, the bottom of which is situated 20 feet below. Currently, this kalyani holds water up to 25 feet.

“The pond’s water is utilised only when it is absolutely essential. We are planning to develop a garden with ornamental plants near the pond. Apart from this, we are also planning to install cement benches for the benefit of the visitors, for which the local gram panchayat has offered assistance,” explains the chief volunteer and gram panchayat member Manjunath. 

When a waste-filled pond comes back to life brimming with water, it proves that a little effort can go a long way in life.  

G Nanjegowda
(Translated by A Varsha Rao)