Encyclopaedia on India

The Buckingham Canal , a British-era freshwater navigation canal running parallel to the Coromandel Coast, has long been a vital waterway for trade, agriculture, and ecology in South India. Stretching nearly 796 kilometers from Andhra Pradesh to Tamil Nadu, it once connected natural backwaters to the Chennai port and supported communities along its course. However, decades of neglect, pollution, and encroachment have diminished its utility. Today, efforts are underway to revamp and restore the canal , aiming to bring back its past glory and integrate it into modern urban and ecological planning. Government Initiatives for Restoration The Public Works Department (PWD) of Tamil Nadu, in collaboration with the Water Resources Department, has taken up periodic dredging and widening of the canal. These efforts are supported under the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM), a State-Centre shared scheme designed to modernize urban infrastructure. One of the key projec...

The Buckingham Canal , a British-era freshwater navigation canal running parallel to the Coromandel Coast, has long been a vital waterway for trade, agriculture, and ecology in South India. Stretching nearly 796 kilometers from Andhra Pradesh to Tamil Nadu, it once connected natural backwaters to the Chennai port and supported communities along its course. However, decades of neglect, pollution, and encroachment have diminished its utility. Today, efforts are underway to revamp and restore the canal , aiming to bring back its past glory and integrate it into modern urban and ecological planning. Government Initiatives for Restoration The Public Works Department (PWD) of Tamil Nadu, in collaboration with the Water Resources Department, has taken up periodic dredging and widening of the canal. These efforts are supported under the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM), a State-Centre shared scheme designed to modernize urban infrastructure. One of the key projec...

Nestled in the serene Bandipora district of Jammu and Kashmir, Wular Lake also spelled Wular is a breathtaking expanse of freshwater that holds the distinction of being the largest freshwater lake in India and among the largest in Asia. This balloon-shaped lake, with its dynamic surface area ranging seasonally from 30 to 260 square kilometers, is not just a geographical marvel but also a lifeline for the Kashmir Valley’s ecology, economy, and culture. Etymology and Historical Significance The Origins of Wular Lake name are steeped in ancient lore and linguistic evolution. According to the Nilamata Purana, it was once called Mahapadmasaras, a Sanskrit term. The renowned scholar Al-Biruni referred to it as Bolor in the 10th century. The lake’s afternoon waves, known for their ferocity, were described as Ullola in Sanskrit meaning stormy leaping of waves. Over time, Bolor morphed into Wular, possibly derived from the Kashmiri word Wul, meaning a gap or fissure, reflecting the lake’s ...

Nestled in the lush embrace of the Western Ghats in Maharashtra, India, Venna Lake stands as one of Mahabaleshwar most cherished tourist attractions. With its tranquil waters, tree-lined banks, and vibrant local culture, this artificial lake offers a refreshing escape for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and adventure seekers alike. Spread across 28 acres with a perimeter stretching 7 to 8 kilometers, Venna Lake is more than just a scenic spot it’s a place where history, ecology, and recreation converge. Historical Significance Venna Lake was constructed in 1842 by Shri Appasaheb Maharaj, the ruler of Satara and a descendant of the legendary Maratha king Chhatrapati Shivaji. Originally built to meet the water needs of Mahabaleshwar, the lake soon became a symbol of the region’s heritage. An ancient tower located at the center of the lake serves as a historical marker, silently narrating tales of the past. This architectural relic adds depth to the lake’s identity, reminding vis...

Nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of Jammu and Kashmir, Tulian Lake is a high-altitude alpine lake that captivates visitors with its pristine beauty, glacial waters, and dramatic mountain backdrop. Located between the Pir Panjal and Zanskar ranges, this secluded lake is a testament to the raw, untouched splendor of the Himalayas. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a trekking aficionado, or simply someone seeking serenity, Tulian Lake offers an unforgettable experience. Location and Accessibility Tulian Lake is situated near Pahalgam, a popular tourist destination in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir. Pahalgam itself is known for its lush valleys, scenic rivers, and as a base for several treks and pilgrimages, including the famous Amaranth Yatra. From Pahalgam, Tulian Lake lies approximately 16 kilometers away, while it is about 11 kilometers from Bai Saran, a picturesque meadow that often serves as a resting point for trekkers en route to the lake. Reaching Tu...

Nestled in the serene landscapes of Meghalaya, India, Thadlaskein Lake also known as Pung Sajar Nangli is a captivating man-made water body steeped in history, legend, and cultural reverence. Located near Mukhla village in the West Jaintia Hills district of Jowai, this tranquil lake is not just a scenic destination but a living testament to the region’s rich folklore and indigenous traditions. Origins Rooted in Legend The story of Thadlaskein Lake begins with the tale of Sajar Nangli, a young and rebellious general of the Jaintia king. According to local legend, Sajar Nangli and his followers were on a long journey, fleeing from royal authority. Exhausted and seeking rest, they stopped at a spot near Mukhla village. To commemorate their great exodus and the unity of their clan, they dug a lake using the ends of their arrows. This symbolic act gave birth to what is now known as Thadlaskein Lake. The lake’s alternate name, Pung Sajar Nangli, honours this legendary figure and the ...

Nestled in the vibrant city of Vadodara, Gujarat, Sursagar Lake stands as a timeless symbol of architectural brilliance, cultural pride, and natural beauty. Built in the 19th century by the Gaikwad dynasty who ruled Vadodara for generations this manmade lake has become one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. With its circular shape and a circumference of approximately one and a half miles, Sursagar Lake is not just a water body but a living canvas that reflects the soul of Vadodara. Historical Significance and Construction Sursagar Lake was constructed during the reign of the Gaikwad rulers, known for their patronage of art, architecture, and civic development. The lake was designed to serve both aesthetic and practical purposes. At 60 meters deep, it was engineered with remarkable foresight, incorporating underground gates that connect to the Vishvamitra River. These gates are strategically opened during the monsoon season to prevent flooding, showcasing the ingenuity of 19...