Infosys Foundation to revive Melkote ponds

MANDYA: Infosys Foundation on Thursday launched rejuvenation of holy ponds, including Pancha Kalyani, in Mandya district’s Melkote, the religious centre.
Foundation chairperson Sudha Murty told reporters that it was her desire to see Melukote as a major pilgrimage centre and that it should regain its glory. As part of the project, the foundation will rejuvenate the holy ponds, repair canals which connect the ponds, and make sure the ponds are filled to the brim all through the year.

“For centuries, Melkote enjoyed the patronage of Hoysala, Vijayanagar and other dynasties. Melkote, its holy ponds and historical monuments in the town are a divine gift to all of us. They are testimony to our architecture and rich cultural past. It is our primary duty to protect them. Our project improves the quality of water, and helps achieve ecological equilibrium in Melkote. It’s said the water of Pancha Kalyani was used for spiritual cleansing, besides drinking and agriculture purposes,” she said.

Karnataka tourism minister Sa Ra Mahesh said Pancha Kalyani was the biggest source of water for Melkote and welcomed the foundation’s initiative. District minister CS Puttaraju was present on the occasion.