The Monarch of Mysore

Book excerpt: In 1399 A. D., Sri Yaduraya Wodeyar founded the "Yadu Vamsa" (dynasty). Later many illustrious rulers expanded the Mysore state in four directions. This biographical work "Aalida Mahaswamigalu" by Rajasevasaktha Padmashri C K Venkataramaiah traces the ebb and tide of history of Mysore. The British Government decided upon restitution of monarchy by appointing Sri Chamarajendra Wodeyar as the successor to Sri Mummadi Krishnaraja Wodeyar in 1881. This enlightened Western educated ruler began modernisation of Mysore through administrative reforms. This fruitful thirteen years reign came to an end by his untimely death. Sri Nalwadi Krishnaraja Wodeyar aged ten years was appointed as the next successor to the throne by Queen-Empress Victoria. The mother of the young Prince was appointed as the caretaker regent of the Mysore state. The Queen Dowager Sri Vanivilasa Sannidhana Kempananjammani ruled the state ably and efficiently for eight years (1895-1902) After the investiture ceremony in 1902 by Lord Curzon the glorious golden direct rule of Nalwadi Krishnaraja Wodeyar dawned. The Maharaja began modernising the Mysore state through political and economic reforms. The establishment of University of Mysore, Shivana Samudra Hydro-Electric Project, Bhadravathi Iron and Steel factory, KRS dam across river Cauvery, Chemical Industries, Sandalwood oil and soaps & detergents factory, Mysore Silk weaving factory etc are some of his achievments. The Maharaja adhered to the tenets of "Raja Dharma" and the people called him "Raja Rishi" Mahatma Gandhi described the Mysore state as "Rama Rajya. He worked diligently for the emancipation of dalits and women. This progressive rule of the Maharaja came to an abrupt end with his sudden death In 1940 (56 years old).