Latest news with #KrishnarajaWadiyarIV
India.com
a day ago
- General
- India.com
Old Legends, Royal Drama & Total Confusion: The Stories Behind Mysore's Weirdest Streets
As a cultural center and capital of Karnataka Mysore stands out for its impressive architectural structures as well as its celebrated traditions. Ordinary residents of Mysore City might overlook the interesting street names which appear throughout their urban landscape beyond the popular palaces as well as temples. These unique street names exist for more than general labeling purposes because they derive from historical stories and community legends. This article examines several strange street names that exist within Mysore while investigating their cause of origin. 1. Sayyaji Rao Road: A Name With Royal Roots With royal significance behind its name, the Mysore street known as Sayyaji Rao Road appears unassuming from the start. The street received its name from Sayyaji Rao Gaekwad III who served as the Maharaja of Baroda under the close friendship of Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV who governed Mysore. The modernization of Mysore under Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV was marked by his initiative to construct roads and railways as well as implement public utilities. During his lifetime Sayyaji Rao earned friendship from Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV which led this important Mysore road to bear his name. History revolves around this road name because it links two distant Indian princely states that highlight royal relationships of the colonial era. 2. Doddakere Gate: The Tale of a Forgotten Lake The local Kannada name Doddakere Gate represents a former expansive lake which used to be situated in the vicinity. Doddakere gate corresponded to an area where people in the city depended on a substantial lake that served as their primary water reservoir. The progression of urbanization caused the lake to evaporate completely until its name distinguished the geographical spot it formerly occupied. The market at Doddakere Gate now dominates the area so much that the lake-related aspect of its name has become more nostalgic than factual. 3. Bannimantap: Where Elephants Once Roamed The literal translation of Bannimantap is 'ground covered with bamboo groves yet its true meaning emerges from royal elephant ties. The vast open training space served as an elephant exercise area during the Wodeyar dynasty because they used elephants in royal processions and festivals. The grand Mysore Dasara procession started from this location as decorated elephants carried the items at the front of the main procession. Despite disappearing bamboo groves the name Bannimantap still brings to mind the grandeur of elephants in royal splendor. 4. Kuvempu Nagar: Honoring a Literary Legend Kuppali Venkatappa Puttappa earned the Jnanpith Award title after which the Kannada poet became known as Kuvempu and Kuvempu Nagar received its name. Kuvempu established modern Kannada literature by using his skills in poetry alongside plays and essays throughout the 1900s which began when he was born in 1904. Mysore shows its devotion to the arts and culture by giving this residential neighborhood his name. Mysore distinguishes itself from other cities by giving its street names to literary figures such as Kuvempu instead of choosing politician or freedom fighter names. 5. Ganjam: A Melting Pot of Cultures Ganjam finds its location near Chamundi Hill where the Persian origin name 'ganj' signifies marketplace. History shows that this commercial center acted as a business center for traders who came from Marwaris, Gujaratis and Parsis. Throughout many decades these groups maintained their economic significance as well as cultural presence throughout Mysore which led to a cosmopolitan identity in Ganjam. The diverse mix of traditions from around South India has not erased Ganjam's character because it still maintains its special essence which demonstrates Mysore's welcoming personality. 6. Ashoka Road: A Nod to Ancient India Mysore contains an Ashoka Road which serves as a tribute to the remarkable ruler Ashoka who ruled ancient India. As a Buddhist king who expanded his teachings across Asia Ashoka leaves behind a rich heritage dedicated to peace with tolerance and unity that lasts into present times. Mysore identifies with India's past because this pathway got its name after Ashoka while its reasons for the naming remains unclear. Going by Ashoka Road presents an experience which links contemporary life to the enduring historical foundations of the city. 7. Vontikoppal: A Village Turned Suburb The name Vontikoppal results from Kannada linguistic elements 'vonti' meaning hair and 'koppal' referring to a hillock. Local stories indicate that the place received its name from hillocks which appeared like voluminous hair masses. The fast-paced urban expansion has changed Vontikoppal from its previous rural village state next to Mysore into an active suburban area. The village's unique name exists today as a nostalgic symbol of the natural world that was once prevalent in the area. 8. Nazarbad: A Blend of Mythology and History The location of Nazarbad outside Mysore carries a name particularly fascinating because of both mythological and superstitious beliefs. Historical accounts claim that years ago a local magical spell ('nazar' in Urdu) resulted in the naming of this region. Traditions differ regarding the origin of the place name between stories about natural disasters and ancient stories of spiritual demonic activity. The modern Nazarbad neighborhood disagrees with its originally sinister name by developing into a successful area. The magical combination of fictional elements with factual content makes the place even more exciting. Final Thoughts Street names in Mysore function as more than simple direction guides since they serve to reveal vital character elements within the city. Each place name throughout Mysore displays how complex the city really is by linking together royal partnerships with lost water bodies and literary notables with purported curses. School visitors can witness Mysore's multifaceted history while discovering diverse cultural and enduring features by walking its streets. During your Mysore travels spend a few minutes appreciating the extraordinary tales embedded within its interesting street names.
India.com
07-07-2025
- Politics
- India.com
Meet Indian king who sold his jewels to 'light up every home', his name was..., he was king of...
New Delhi: India's history is studded with the stories and legends of queens and kings who made a mark for themselves in their own unique ways. They either introduced reforms in the society or stopped some bad practices. Overall, their focus was on public welfare and service to their subjects. One such king was Maharaja Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV of Mysore, the twenty-fourth Maharaja of Mysore, who reigned from 1902 until his death in 1940. His might not be a popular name, but his acts of kindness, empathetic nature, and desire to serve his citizens speak a lot about his towering personality. He was a king who touched the lives of people and always strived to make them better. About Maharaja Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV was born on June 4, 1884, in the grand Mysore Palace. He was just 11 years old when he became king in 1895. His mother, Kempananjammanni Devi, was the Maharani of Mysore and later queen mother and regent of the Kingdom of Mysore until her son took full charge at the age of 18 years in 1902. Wadiyar IV was very different from many kings. He received both Western and Indian education and wasn't interested in living a luxurious life. He could speak English, Kannada, and Sanskrit, and was a patron of arts who earned praise from Lord Curzon, then Governor-General of India. Lord Curzon was very impressed by his vision. Mysore witnessed exceptional overall progress Under Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV, the Mysore kingdom witnessed a revolutionary transformation for better, and it became one of the most progressive states in the world. He created ample opportunities for his people and advocated equality as he banned untouchability and stopped child marriages for girls under eight years. He granted scholarship to widowed women, and he donated Rs 60 lakh every year from his personal wealth to help disabled children. Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV established the Mysore Social Progress Association in 1915 and launched one of the earliest reservation policies. After an official calculation of the condition of backward classes in 1918, he reserved 25% of government jobs for non-Brahmins. It was a very bold and courageous step at that time. A champion of modern technology and education He had an amazing foresight, and he delved on creative and practical ideas and schemes as was observed by Lord Curzon, then Governor-General of India. You will be amazed to know that Under Wadiyar IV, Mysore became a pioneer in technology and in 1905, Bangalore became the first city in Asia to be fully electrified using hydroelectric power. This earned him the moniker 'Krishnaraja Bhoopa, Mane Mane Deepa', which means 'the king who lit up every home'. He worked extensively in the field of education. Primary education became compulsory by 1915 and within 12 years, i.e. by 1927, the state's education budget sprung from Rs 6.9 lakh to Rs 46.8 lakh, helping more than 5 lakh students across 8,000 schools. He wanted the future generations to be educated irrespective of their social and economic status. He helped in setting up Mysore Sanskrit College for which he gave 10 acres of land to Sir CV Raman for his research institute and donated 400 acres to Jamsetji Tata for what would later become the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) in Bengaluru. A talented musician, artist, and poet Mahatma Gandhi once called Wadiyar IV a 'Rajarshi', meaning a 'saintly king'. He was a talented musician as he could play instruments like the violin, veena, saxophone, and mridangam. He was a patron of art and artists of his time such as Gauhar Jan and Abdul Karim Khan. He promoted yoga legend T. Krishnamacharya and helped him in taking yoga to the global stage. He wrote poetry in Kannada which shows how much profoundly he was proud and connected to his people and culture. A generous king He passed away in 1940. That time, his net worth was estimated at Rs 57,901 crore (adjusted for today's value). But he was a king who always put his people at the forefront and did everything possible for their welfare. The Krishna Raja Sagar Dam is one such powerful example which was built by the funds provided by him. When money ran out, he sold his own personal jewels in Mumbai to make sure the dam was completed. The dam is a gift to the people that still serves millions today.
Time of India
06-07-2025
- Business
- Time of India
India's forgotten billionaire king who sold his jewels to 'light up every home'
A Golden Era for Mysore Live Events Powering Progress, Literally A King of Culture and Music Wealth Used for Good (You can now subscribe to our (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel In an age where Indian royalty was known for gold-studded palaces, diamond collections, and fleets of Rolls-Royces, one Maharaja stood out, not just for his riches, but for how he used Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV of Mysore may not be as widely remembered today, but his story is a shining example of wisdom, kindness, and progress. While TIME Magazine called Mir Osman Ali Khan of Hyderabad the richest man in the world in 1937, with a fortune worth a jaw-dropping $236 billion (around Rs 19 lakh crore today), Wadiyar's quieter yet equally powerful legacy continues to live on through the lives he touched and the institutions he on June 4, 1884, in the grand Mysore Palace, Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV was just 11 years old when he became king. His mother, Maharani Vani Vilas Sannidhana, ruled as regent until he took full charge at many kings of his time, Wadiyar IV wasn't interested in living a life only of luxury. Trained in both Western and Indian education, he spoke English, Kannada, and Sanskrit, and had a deep love for the arts. Lord Curzon, then Governor-General of India, praised the young ruler's vision and expected Mysore to flourish under him, and he wasn't Wadiyar IV turned his kingdom into one of the most progressive regions in India. Instead of expanding his palace walls, he expanded opportunities for his people. He banned untouchability and stopped child marriages for girls under eight. Widowed women received scholarships, and he donated Rs 60 lakh every year from his personal wealth to help disabled also formed the Mysore Social Progress Association in 1915 and introduced one of the earliest reservation policies in the country. In 1918, he invited Sir Lesley Miller to assess the condition of backward classes, which led to 25% of government jobs being reserved for non-Brahmins, a bold step at that Wadiyar IV, Mysore became a pioneer in technology. In 1905, Bangalore became the first city in Asia to be fully electrified using hydroelectric power. This earned him the nickname 'Krishnaraja Bhoopa, Mane Mane Deepa,' which means 'the king who lit up every home.'He also revolutionised education. By 1915, primary education became compulsory. By 1927, the state's education budget jumped from Rs 6.9 lakh to Rs 46.8 lakh, supporting more than 5 lakh students across 8,000 wasn't just funding classrooms, he was building institutions for the future. He helped set up Mysore Sanskrit College, gave 10 acres of land to Sir CV Raman for his research institute, and donated 400 acres to Jamsetji Tata for what would later become the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) in Gandhi once called Wadiyar IV a "Rajarshi", a mix of king and sage. He was a gifted musician, playing instruments like the violin, veena, saxophone, and supported famous artists of the time, such as Gauhar Jan and Abdul Karim Khan, and backed yoga legend T. Krishnamacharya, helping take yoga to the global stage. He also wrote poetry in Kannada, expressing his deep connection to his people and the time of his death in 1940, his fortune was estimated at Rs 57,901 crore (adjusted for today's value). But he wasn't a king who hoarded wealth. One powerful example was his funding of the Krishna Raja Sagar Dam. When money ran out, he personally sold his own jewels in Mumbai to make sure the dam was completed, a gift to the people that still serves millions from TOI
India.com
02-07-2025
- General
- India.com
This Indian king was once the richest, had net worth of Rs 57901000000; was a modern reformer, name is..., not Hyderabad Nizam
Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV (File) There have been scores of uber-wealthy kings and queens in India's recent past who became famous across the globe because of their massive fortune, lavish lifestyles, opulent palaces filled to the brim with gold, diamonds and other rare jewels, and their fleet of Rolls-Royce cars. However, one name is often forgotten when looking at erstwhile Indian royalty, Maharaja Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV, an Indian ruler who was once the among the richest individuals on the planet, but is overlooked perhaps because unlike his peers, he used his wealth for social reforms instead of living an opulent lifestyle. Who was Maharaja Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV? Maharaja Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV, the son of Maharaja Chamarajendra Wadiyar X and Maharani Vani Vilas Sannidhana, was born on June 4, 1884, in the grand Mysore Palace, and ascended the royal throne at the tender age of 11 after the sudden demise of his father. His mother acted as the Queen Regent till Krishnaraja turned 18 in 1902. Growing up, Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV had an interesting education which had a mix of Western and Indian influences, covering English, Kannada, Sanskrit, and fine arts. His multicultural and reformist outlook shone through at an early age, with Lord Curzon, the then Governor-General of India predicting that Mysore would likely witness a golden age, with great strides in development under the young king's leadership, a prophecy which would later come true. How Wadiyar IV developed Mysore and worked for social upliftment? After taking the reins of the Mysore empire, Maharaja Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV began transforming transforming society and the upliftment of downtrodden classes. The young king banned age-old practices like untouchability and child marriage for girls under the age of 8. He also introduced scholarships for widows and allocated Rs 60 lakh annually, a huge sum at the time, from his personal coffers, to support disabled children. In 1915, Wadiyar IV established the Mysore Social Progress Association for the upliftment of underprivileged classes, and in 1918, invited Sir Lesley Miller to assess the conditions of backward classes, leading to a 25% reservation in government jobs for non-Brahmins, a policy which is was way ahead of its time. Beyond social reforms, Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV also worked for developing Mysore as a technological powerhouse, and soon the princely state became the first in Asia to generate hydroelectric power. The reformer king's efforts bore fruit when Bangalore (now Bengaluru) became the first full electrified city in Asia, earning him the moniker 'Krishnaraja Bhoopa, Mane Mane Deepa (the king who lit up every home). What reforms did Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV introduce to promote education? Additionally, Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV was a forward-thinking ruler who realized the value of good education and introduced several reforms, like making primary education compulsory to promote knowledge and learning. Under his rule, the education budget of Mysore had increased from Rs 6.9 lakh to Rs 46.8 lakh, with over 515,000 students enrolled in 8,000 schools in the princely state. Wadiyar also founded institutions that thrive to this day, including Mysore Sanskrit College, and also gifted 10 acres of land to Nobel Laureate Sir CV Raman for his research institute. He also donated 400 acres near Malleshwaram to industrialist Jamsetji Tata for establishing what is now known as the Indian Institute of Science (IISc). Maharaja Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV net worth Maharaja Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV was once among the richest men in the world, boasting a net worth of $400 million, which is equivalent to around $7 billion (about Rs 57901 crore), when adjusted for inflation, according to reports. Notably, in 1937, TIME magazine had crowned the Osman Ali Khan, the Nizam of Hyderabad as the wealthiest on the planet with an estimated net worth of $236 billion (Rs 19 lakh crore)
Time of India
02-07-2025
- Business
- Time of India
The forgotten Billionaire Maharaja of India, who was not just the richest but also a modern reformer
In the glittering era of Indian royalty, stories of unimaginable wealth were often associated with extravagant lifestyles, palaces filled with gold and jewels, fleets of Rolls-Royces, and legendary diamond collections. But amidst this grandeur, one ruler stood out for using his wealth not just to live lavishly, but to build a better, fairer society. While TIME Magazine famously crowned Mir Osman Ali Khan of Hyderabad the "richest man in the world" in 1937, with a fortune estimated at $236 billion or around ₹19 lakh crore today, another Indian royal quietly followed not just in show, but also in substance. With an estimated net worth of $400 million at the time roughly $7 billion or ₹57,901 crore adjusted for inflation, Maharaja Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV was ranked among the world's richest, yet he remains less talked about today and most importantly, his impact, especially in education, infrastructure, and social reform, remains deeply etched in history. A vision beyond the throne Born on June 4, 1884, in the grand Mysore Palace, Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV was the son of Maharaja Chamarajendra Wadiyar X and Maharani Vani Vilas Sannidhana. After his father's sudden death, he became king at just 11 years old, with his mother acting as regent until he turned 18 in 1902. His education was a mix of Western and Indian influences, covering English, Kannada, Sanskrit, and fine arts. Lord Curzon, the then Governor-General of India, praised the young king for his potential, predicting great strides in development under his leadership. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Free P2,000 GCash eGift UnionBank Credit Card Apply Now Undo The golden era of Mysore Once he took over the steer for his empire, Wadiyar IV focused not on expanding palaces, but on uplifting people. He banned untouchability and child marriage for girls under eight. He funded scholarships for widowed women and allocated ₹60 lakh annually from his personal wealth to support disabled children. In 1915, he founded the Mysore Social Progress Association to uplift underprivileged communities. In 1918, he invited Sir Lesley Miller to assess the conditions of backward classes, leading to a 25% reservation in government jobs for non-Brahmins, that also came as a forward-thinking policy for that era The state also became electric-powered under his leadership Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV also brought technological progress to Mysore. Under his rule, the princely state became the first in Asia to generate hydroelectric power. In 1905, Bangalore became the first city in Asia to be fully electrified. His efforts earned him the title 'Krishnaraja Bhoopa, Mane Mane Deepa', meaning 'the king who lit up every home,' according to the Deccan Herald. His commitment to education was equally visionary. In 1915, he made primary education compulsory. By 1927, the state's education budget had risen from ₹6.9 lakh to ₹46.8 lakh, supporting over 515,000 students across 8,000 schools. He also established and funded institutions that exist to this day, including the Mysore Sanskrit College. He gifted 10 acres of land to Nobel Laureate Sir CV Raman for his research institute and donated 400 acres near Malleshwaram to Jamsetji Tata for what would later become the Indian Institute of Science (IISc). A Cultural Patron and Musician King Wadiyar IV wasn't just a ruler — he was an artist at heart. Mahatma Gandhi affectionately called him 'Rajarshi', meaning a combination of 'Raja' (king) and 'Rishi' (sage), reflecting his moral leadership. He was also an accomplished musician who played numerous instruments, including the violin, veena, saxophone, and mridangam. He supported prominent artists of the time, such as Gauhar Jan and Abdul Karim Khan, and even sponsored yoga master Sri T. Krishnamacharya, helping revive and globalise the practice. He also expressed himself through poetry, writing in his native Kannada. Wealth with Wisdom Though his estimated fortune stood at ₹57,901 crore at the time of his death in 1940, Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV wasn't known for stockpiling his wealth. One famous example is his funding of the Krishna Raja Sagar Dam. When funds fell short during its construction, he reportedly sold his own jewels in Mumbai to ensure the project was completed.
