Meiktila Lake is a historically and culturally significant body of water in Myanmar. It has been an integral part of Myanmar’s heritage, appearing in traditional nursery rhymes, poems, and historical records. Many Myanmar children grow up singing rhymes about the lake, reinforcing their connection to it from an early age. These songs and poems often evoke nostalgia for the past while also linking generations through shared cultural memory.

Location and Physical Features

Meiktila Lake is located on the western side of Meiktila town. It stretches approximately seven miles in length and half a mile in width, covering an area of about 3.5 square miles. Despite appearing as a single body of water, it is traditionally divided into two parts: the Southern Lake (Taung Kan) and the Northern Lake (Myauk Kan). The lake has a rich history of construction and renovation by various Myanmar kings.

Historical Background and Renovations

The origins of Meiktila Lake date back to ancient times, when it was first constructed by King Arkarratta. Due to the presence of abundant Acacia trees around its banks, the lake was originally named "Syi Sya Kan." Over the centuries, many Myanmar monarchs have expanded and maintained the lake:

1. King Kusamin, consort of Queen Pa Bar Waddy, retained the name "Syi Sya Kan."
2. King Anjanamin, a royal ancestor of Gautama Buddha, continued its maintenance.
3. Wealthy merchant Anata Pin also played a role in preserving the lake.
4. King Azartathat further expanded the lake while keeping its original name.
5. Kala Thawka Min, known for presiding over the Second Buddhist Council, renamed it "Mangala Kan Taw."
6. King Siri Dhamma Thawka later referred to it as "Kadawaka Kan Taw."
7. King Duttagamani restored the name "Syi Sya Kan Taw Gyi."
8. King Samuddari renamed it "Metta Kan Taw."
9. Puppa Sauraha re-established its old name.
10. King Anawrahta significantly expanded the lake and constructed a stone sluice gate.

King Anawrahta also set a stone inscription near the sluice gate stating that no matter how much water entered the lake, a droplet from the beak of the sacred Gyo Gyar bird would never touch it, symbolizing its eternal purity. He then sent a royal messenger to measure the lake’s size. The messenger, exhausted from the journey, described the lake as so vast that its water never reached the base of Mount Popa. This led to its alternative name, "Ma Htila Kan Taw," which later evolved into "Meiktila Lake."

Cultural and Scientific Significance

Meiktila Lake has long been recognized for its unique characteristics. It does not recede unpredictably, emit foul odors, or accumulate waste. Additionally, it is free from certain types of fish and aquatic life commonly found in other bodies of water. Another fascinating feature is that water from the Northern Lake flows into the Southern Lake during the monsoon season, but the clear and murky waters never mix. The lake’s importance is reflected in a traditional Myanmar saying: "For water, there is Sagaing. For waves, there is Pakhan Nge. For rice fields, there is Taung Twin. For paddy, there is Yame Thin. For reservoirs, there is Taung Thaman. For lakes, there is Meiktila." Despite myths claiming that lotus plants do not grow in the lake, modern studies suggest that natural changes in the lakebed have led to the recent appearance of lotus plants. Scientifically, the lake's clarity is attributed to the presence of natural minerals and limestone deposits in the southern section.

Conclusion

With a rich history involving numerous Myanmar kings, poets, and scholars, Meiktila Lake remains a prominent landmark. It continues to thrive, retaining its beauty and cultural significance. Today, it stands as a testament to Myanmar’s deep connection to nature and history, a place where the past and present coexist in harmony.

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Ref: Online PTO:CRD