Ayyanakere: Karnataka's Ancient Lake and Its Folklore
By D. S. Somashekhar, Sarvamangala G
Summary
The Ayyanakere lake in Sakharayapattna, Karnataka, is a historic natural tank constructed over 800 years ago by Hoysala ruler Ballala-II. Spanning approximately 18 kilometers in circumference, it is considered the third-largest lake in Karnataka and irrigates over 5,000 acres of land, supporting areca plantations and fertile fields. Surrounded by green hills and fed by the River Veda during monsoons, the lake holds cultural and historical significance, with folklore recounting repeated breaches of its bund and subsequent repairs. Notably, the tale of Honabilla and Chenabilla, fishermen who sacrificed themselves to protect the lake, is preserved in folk songs. The lake’s construction, documented in inscriptions at the Ballaleshwara Temple on its bund, involved engineering feats to manage water flow and prevent breaches. The tank’s maintenance and spiritual significance are tied to legends involving saints and rituals like Anavristi Abhisheka during droughts. Historical records mention Sakharayapattna’s evolution from Shankarapura and its role under various dynasties, including the Vijayanagara and British. The area is also known for unique natural features like the Gandhada Gutti sandalwood hill and the sacred bilwa grove near Kallumaradi Matha.
Conclusion
The study of Ayyanakere reveals the enduring interplay between human ingenuity and natural forces in sustaining communities. The Hoysala-era tank, central to Sakharayapattna’s identity, showcases advanced ancient engineering tailored to regional geography, while its repeated failures and repairs underscore the challenges of maintaining such systems. The integration of folklore—like the saint’s sacrifice and the watchmen’s heroism—highlights how cultural narratives preserved collective memory and communal resilience. The tank’s role in irrigation and cultural rituals remains vital, reflecting its historical and living legacy. This case study emphasizes the need to blend historical preservation with ecological awareness to sustain such heritage sites for future generations.