T.N. Chief Minister unveils statue of13th-century Kongu chieftain Kalingarayan in Erode

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin on January 18, 2026 (Sunday) inaugurated through video conferencing a bronze statue of 13th-century Kongu chieftain Kalingarayan and a library named after him at Vellode in Erode district.

Kalingarayan had constructed an anicut across Bhavani river at Mettunasuvampalayam, just above its confluence with the Cauvery. The Kalingarayan Canal, originating from the right side of the anicut, runs for 91.10 km, irrigating 15,743 acres before joining the Noyyal river at Kodumudi. The construction of the anicut and canal system began in 1271 and was completed on January 19, 1283. In recognition of its historical importance, the International Commission on Irrigation and Drainage (ICID) declared it a ‘World Heritage Irrigation Structure’ in 2021.

A bust of Kalingarayan that was installed at his hometown Vellode on January 19, 2007, by members of the Kalingarayan Ayacut Farmers’ Associations and community organisations was later removed due to road widening and kept in a private location. Tributes are paid annually on the fifth day of the Tamil month of Thai, observed as Kalingarayan Day. As public land was not available, a private land near the Arulmigu Rasa Temple was purchased to install a statue along with a library aimed at helping students prepare for competitive examinations.

The statue and library were inaugurated in the presence of Minister for Housing, Prohibition and Excise S. Muthusamy, District Collector S. Kandasamy, MP K.E. Prakash, MLAs E.R. Eswaran and V.C. Chandhirakumar, descendants of Kalingarayan, farmers and members of the public.

Speaking to reporters, Mr. Muthusamy said a book on Kalingarayan’s history was published and efforts would be made to include his contributions in school textbooks. The government has allocated ₹86 crore to renovate the Kalingarayan Canal, which will be undertaken in March during the 45-day water shutdown.

Responding to concerns over sewage mixing in certain stretches of the baby canal laid alongside the main canal, the Minister said minor lapses may exist but sewage inflow has largely been prevented. As per court directions, sewage is diverted through the baby canal and preventing sewage discharge within Erode city limits will largely safeguard the Kalingarayan Canal.