Located in the heart of the city, Sursagar Talav, formerly known as Chandan Talav, played a pivotal role in the placement of the old walled city known as Kila-e-Dulatabad. It later became a focal point for urban renewal efforts during the reign of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III.
The lake is believed to have been extended in the 1750s by Sureshwar Desai, a Mughal era tax collector (formerly known as Sureshwar Pandya), hence the name Sursagar. Between 1870-75, during the reign of Malharrao Gaekwad, retaining walls and ‘ghats’ were constructed around its perimeter. Several underground gates were also built to manage overflow, directing water to the Vishwamitri river, which flows through the city. Originally, Sursagar served as the primary source of drinking water for Vadodara. The lake spans an impressive 1057 feet in length and 665 feet in width, with an average depth of 12 feet.
In 2002, the Vadodara Municipal Corporation erected a 120 ft tall statue of Lord Shiva (Sarveshwar Mahadev) in a standing posture at the center of the lake. This addition was part of a beautification project that included renovating the ghats and adding a surrounding walkway. Boating activities, previously halted due to safety concerns, are set to resume.
During festivals like Maha Shivratri, the statue is illuminated with lights, attracting devotees and spectators alike. Sursagar also becomes a focal point during the Ganesh Festival, where people gather for the immersion of Lord Ganesha idols into its waters. The statue of Lord Shiva is adorned with 17.5 kg of gold, valued at approximately Rs 12 crore, adding to the lake’s cultural and religious significance.
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