Mysore Palace, also known as the Amba Vilas Palace, is one of the most famous and historically significant royal residences in India. Located in the city of Mysore in the state of Karnataka, it serves as the official residence of the Wadiyar dynasty, the erstwhile royal family of Mysore. The palace is a major tourist attraction and is known for its architectural grandeur and cultural significance.
Early History and the Wadiyar Dynasty
The Wadiyar dynasty, which ruled the Kingdom of Mysore, originally constructed a palace on the site in the 14th century. This early structure was a wooden fort and palace built by the royal family after they moved their capital to Mysore from the nearby town of Mysuru in 1400. This wooden palace, however, underwent several renovations and reconstructions over the centuries, due to both natural disasters and the ambitions of successive rulers.
Destruction and Reconstruction
The original wooden palace was destroyed multiple times. It was first demolished in 1638 by the ruler of Bijapur, but was later rebuilt. The most significant destruction occurred in 1897 when a fire broke out during the wedding of Princess Jayalakshammanni, the eldest daughter of Maharaja Chamaraja Wadiyar IX. The fire completely consumed the wooden palace, leading to the decision to construct a new, more grandiose structure made of more durable materials.
Construction of the Current Palace
After the fire, Maharaja Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV commissioned the construction of the current palace. The British architect Henry Irwin was chosen to design the new palace, which was built between 1897 and 1912. The construction cost was estimated at INR 4.5 million at the time, a massive sum reflecting the palace’s grandeur and the wealth of the Mysore Kingdom. The palace was constructed using fine gray granite with deep pink marble domes and an expansive garden surrounding it.
Architectural Details
Indo-Saracenic Style
The Indo-Saracenic style is a revivalist architectural style mostly used by British architects in the late 19th century in British India. It is characterized by its eclectic mix of Indian, Islamic, and European architectural elements, which is prominently reflected in the design of Mysore Palace. This style combines Hindu temple features, Mughal architecture, and elements of Gothic Revival and Neoclassical styles.
Exterior Features
- Domes and Arches: The palace is known for its large marble domes, which dominate the skyline of Mysore. The arches are scalloped, adding to the grandeur of the structure. The central arch is flanked by two smaller arches, with the whole façade crowned by a series of turrets and domes.
- Front Entrance (Gombe Thotti): The front entrance, known as Gombe Thotti or the Doll’s Pavilion, is adorned with a collection of traditional dolls dating back to the 19th and early 20th centuries. This pavilion also houses a seven-meter tall, golden howdah (elephant seat) made of 85 kilograms of gold, used during the Dasara procession.
Interior Features
- Durbar Hall: The Durbar Hall, also known as the Audience Hall, is one of the most opulent rooms in the palace. It features an elaborately decorated ceiling with stained glass and chandeliers, and the floor is covered with intricate mosaic tiles. The hall is lined with ceremonial chairs and thrones where the Maharaja held court.
- Kalyana Mantapa: The Kalyana Mantapa, or marriage hall, is a stunning octagonal-shaped pavilion with a stained glass ceiling in peacock motifs. The floor of the Mantapa is made of a geometric mosaic of colored tiles imported from England. The hall’s walls are adorned with oil paintings depicting the royal family’s events and celebrations.
- Royal Throne (Simhasana): The Mysore Palace also houses the legendary golden throne, which is displayed during the Dasara festival. The throne is said to be over 400 years old and is an exquisite piece of craftsmanship, adorned with precious gems and carvings of Hindu gods and goddesses.
Cultural Significance and the Dasara Festival
The Mysore Dasara
The Mysore Palace is the epicenter of the grand Mysore Dasara festival, which is celebrated in September or October each year, marking the victory of the goddess Chamundeshwari over the demon Mahishasura. The festival lasts for ten days and includes various cultural performances, music, dance, and religious ceremonies. The highlight is the grand procession on Vijayadashami, where the idol of the goddess is paraded through the streets of Mysore on a golden howdah atop a decorated elephant.
During the Dasara festivities, the entire palace is illuminated with approximately 100,000 light bulbs, creating a spectacular visual display that draws visitors from all over the world. The palace also hosts a Durbar, where the current scion of the Wadiyar family presides over a ceremonial court, reviving the grandeur of the bygone royal era.
The Palace as a Museum
The palace is not only a royal residence but also functions as a museum. It houses a rich collection of artifacts, including royal costumes, weapons, musical instruments, and paintings. One of the most famous paintings is the life-size oil painting of Jayachamarajendra Wadiyar, the last ruler of Mysore. The museum offers visitors a glimpse into the royal life of the Wadiyars and the history of Mysore.
Gardens and Temples within the Palace Complex
The Gardens
The Mysore Palace is surrounded by a vast and well-maintained garden. The garden is landscaped with lush lawns, flowering plants, and ornamental fountains, enhancing the palace’s visual appeal. The gardens also host various events, including cultural programs and light and sound shows that narrate the history of the Mysore Palace.
The Temples
Within the palace complex, there are several temples that are centuries old. These include:
- Sri Lakshmi Ramana Swami Temple: Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, this temple predates the current palace and is one of the oldest structures in the complex.
- Sri Shweta Varahaswamy Temple: This temple, dedicated to the Varaha avatar of Vishnu, features intricate carvings and a beautiful sanctum.
- Sri Trineshwara Swamy Temple: Another significant temple within the complex, it is dedicated to Shiva.
These temples are an integral part of the palace complex and highlight the deep spiritual roots of the royal family.
Modern Developments
Preservation and Tourism
The palace is maintained by the Government of Karnataka and is a major tourist destination. Preservation efforts have been undertaken to maintain the structural integrity and historical authenticity of the palace. The government has also implemented visitor management systems to handle the large influx of tourists, especially during the peak Dasara season.
Events and Programs
Apart from the regular tourist visits, Mysore Palace hosts various cultural events, including classical music and dance performances. The light and sound show, held every evening, narrates the history of the Wadiyar dynasty and the palace, attracting both domestic and international visitors.
Conclusion
Mysore Palace stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage and architectural brilliance of the Wadiyar dynasty. Its fusion of architectural styles, coupled with its historical significance and role in Karnataka’s cultural life, make it one of India’s most iconic landmarks. The palace is not just a remnant of a bygone era, but a living monument that continues to draw admiration and reverence from all who visit it.