Kalingarayan
Introduction
Kallingarayan was a thirteenth-century Kongu Nadu chieftain.
History
Kalingarayan was born as a Lingaya Gounder in the Gounder community in the western part of Tamil Nadu in 1240 CE. He independently ruled the Kongu Nadu region until it came under the influence of the Pandyan kings. When the Pandyan kings expanded their territory, Kongu Nadu was also annexed. On behalf of his elder brother Pandyan King Jatavarman Vira Pandyan II appointed Lingaya Gounder granted him the title Kalingarayan.
Achievements
He constructed the 56.5 mile Kalingarayan Canal to connect Bhavani river with Noyyal river to enhance irrigation facilities of Erode Region. It was completed in 1283 CE. It continues to irrigate around 15,750 acres.
Legacy
Tamil Nadu Chief minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami inaugurated the statue of Kongu Nadu chieftain Kalingarayan to honour his contributions.