His title Po Klaung Yăgrai could plausibly be translated from Cham language into English as the "great water-dragon sovereign."

However, "Jarai" more likely is derived from the Old Cham root terms "Ja-" and "-rai" meaning "ordinary people who left" (implying they went to the uplands).

Po Klaung Yăgrai ruled from 1167 to his death and is credited to have built many irrigation works and dams.

He is worshipped at the Po Klong Garai Temple, built by Champa King Jaya Sinhavarman III (Chế Mân).

He started life as a lowly cowherd in the lowland village of Caklaing, but became king of Champa by destiny, ruling wisely and for the good of the people.