Infosys Foundation to take up restoration of Panchakalyani Lake

Infosys Foundation, the humanitarian wing of Infosys, plans to take up the conservation and restoration of the Panchakalyani, the largest ancient lake in Melukote, in the Mandya district of Karnataka.

The Foundation will restore the lake by cleaning the tank, removing silt and waste deposit, ensuring structural and chemical conservation of the Panchakalyani and a nearby tank called the Ganeshan Honda, reconnecting the existing canals and building a compound wall.

Panchakalyani Lake

The Infosys Foundation has been working in the preservation of ancient cultural heritage of India for several years. The Panchakalyani lake is among the most visited monuments in Melukote, which has several ancient water bodies situated on a hill top through which rain water has been harnessed for many centuries. This harnessed water has historically been used for consumption and irrigation.

Karnataka Tourism Minister S R Mahesh and Minor Irrigation Minister C S Puttaraju, attended the inauguration of this restoration project, along with Sudha Murty, Chairperson of Infosys Foundation.

Speaking on the occasion, Sudha Murty said the venture would not only create awareness to preserve, but also protect the rich legacy of the region for future generations.

Sudha Murthy, Chairperson of Infosys Foundation

“Melukote was patronized by the great empires of Hoysala and Vijayanagara, and the Wodeyars of the kingdom of Mysore. Our ancestors have created several heritage structures which stand testimony to our glorious past and it is our duty to preserve those structures. The restoration project is important to improve the water quality of the lake and bring back balance in the natural ecosystem of Melukote,” said Sudha Murty.

“Temple lakes have been a major source of water in this area. As a monument, this temple complex also attracts many tourists from around the state. We are proud that Infosys Foundation has come forward to help restore this lake and revive a part of ancient history,” said the Tourism Minister.