Vanivilas Sagara Dam, Chitradurga

Vani Vilasa Sagara dam is popularly known as Mari Kanive is a dam built in Chitradurga district of Karnataka. It is the oldest dam in the state that was built by the Maharajas of Mysore on Vedavati river before India got independence. 

This structure is the best example of engineering for its time and provides water to the surrounding cities, towns and villages. This dam has been a tourist attraction for many years. The forest department has taken over the area and planted Panchavati gardens. These gardens include medicinal plants of ancient Indian cultural background.

Significance

The "Mari Kanive" irrigation project was initiated by the British representative in Mysore, Sir. Mark Cubbon. The construction was started by Diwan Seshadri Iyer in 1897 on the orders of Sri Krishnaraja Wodeyar - IV who is the Maharaja or king of Mysore.

This dam is a water source for the Hiriyur and Chitradurga areas. It irrigated 100 sq. km of land in Hiriyur and Challakere talukas through its right and left canals. It was started by the wife of Maharaja Chamraja Wodeyar. They have got busget issue to complete the project, then the Maharaja family put up their jewels as security and completed the project. Hence, this dam was named as "Vani Vilasa Sagara", which is the name of the younger daughter of the then Maharaja of Mysore.Tourists visiting Chitradurga must visit this dam as the historical Marikamba temple is also located here. 

How To Reach

Vani Vilaspura bus stop is the nearest bus stop which is situated just 900m away from the dam. You can reach the dam easily by walk from the bus stop.