The kallanai dam was originally built about 2000 years ago by the might Chola king, Karikalan. Remodelling of the dam was carried out by the British engineer Caldwell during the 19th century. He was appointed to do extensive research, and he found that most of the Kaveri waters were flowing into the Kollidam river and a tiny amount was being used for irrigation. This was why the height of the dam stones was considerably raised, and steps were taken to reduce the amount of silt in the river. Following this, Sir Arthur Cotton built the Lower Anaicut across the Kollidam, a major tributary of the Kaveri. It is said to be a replica of the Kallanai Dam.

'Necessity is the mother of invention'- the desperate need for irrigation in the fertile delta region due to erratic rainfall and frequent flooding lead to setting the foundation of the Kallanai Dam. However, even in the absence of modern technology and superior equipment, the dam was built to be a masterpiece. Huge boulders and uneven stones were sunk into the River Kaveri after carefully analyzing the direction, speed and depth of the water. The strength, sturdiness, creativity and science of the structure has fascinated many historians and engineers.

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