Karikala Chola

Karikala Chola was a prominent king of the ancient Tamil Chola dynasty in southern India, believed to have ruled around the 2nd century CE. Renowned for his military prowess, administrative skills, and contributions to infrastructure, he famously developed the Kaveri River valley’s irrigation system, including the construction of the Kallanai dam—one of the world's oldest functioning water reservoirs. Karikala is also celebrated in Tamil literature for his leadership in expanding and strengthening the kingdom, promoting trade, and fostering cultural development. His reign is considered a significant period in early South Indian history, laying foundations for the powerful Chola empire that followed.