Chakrapalita was a notable historical figure from ancient India, recognized for his significant role in administration and engineering during the Gupta period.
Background and Family
Chakrapalita was the son of Parnadatta, who served as the governor of the region of Saurashtra. This administrative position was held under the powerful reign of King Skandagupta, one of the prominent emperors of the Gupta Empire. His family's involvement in the governance of Saurashtra underscores their importance within the Gupta administration.
Major Achievement: Restoration of Sudarshana Lake
Chakrapalita's most significant contribution was the comprehensive restoration of the historic Sudarshana Lake. This vital reservoir, located in Saurashtra, was crucial for the region's water supply and agricultural prosperity. The lake had suffered a major breach, threatening its utility.
Details of the Restoration Project
Chakrapalita undertook and successfully completed the extensive repair work:
- He efficiently repaired the breach that had occurred in the lake's structure.
- He meticulously rebuilt the embankment, a considerable engineering feat that ensured the lake's longevity.
The reconstructed embankment had impressive specifications:
| Feature | Dimension |
|---|---|
| Length | 100 cubits |
| Width | 68 cubits |
| Height | As tall as seven men |
Remarkably, this monumental task, which required substantial planning and execution, was completed within a remarkably short period of just two months. This highlights Chakrapalita's efficiency and the capabilities of the engineering practices during the Gupta era. His work on the Sudarshana Lake is often cited as an example of effective regional governance and public works initiatives during the Gupta era, demonstrating the commitment of local administrators like Chakrapalita to essential infrastructure.
