Latest news with #Wodeyar
India.com
6 days ago
- India.com
Step Into History: A Walk Through Mysore's Storytelling Walls
Mysore is a city in the southern region of India that is known for its unique blend of modern and traditional experiences. Previously named Mysore, this city is celebrated for its cultural richness, royal history, and lively festivals. However, what makes this mesmerizing place different is its unexplored culture and art that people can experience first hand. Each building in Mysuru speaks volumes of the history it carries from the battles fought on these lands to the civilization that progressed over the years. Historical Royal Palace: The Crown Jewel of Mysore Mysore's connection to royalty runs deep. The city was previously the capital for the Wodeyar dynasty empire, and is rich in royal culture to this day. Mysore palace, which is known to be the most famous tourist attraction in the city, is not only beautiful on the inside, but even the surroundings boast of mesmerizing architectural designs. The rich history of Mysore is reflected in its murals and paintings by Sayyaji Rao. While murals embody a kaleidoscope of stories involving passionate huntings to royal ceremonies, the previous walls that existed during the Wodeyars rule served as a vivid reminder of their exquisite legacy. Each painting serves as a medium through which the daily life alongside the grandeur of the kingdom is unveiled. Modern forms of expression are clearly evident in the bustling streets of Mysore, showcasing the city's ability to adapt to change while taking pride in its history. Over the years, street art has materially increased in fanfare and popularity, moving from previously more obscure forms of expression to a well recognized form of art. What once began as an effort by passionate local artists to bring change to the monotonous walls has transformed into large scale movements celebrating the neverending creativity in the region. A clear indicator of this is the advent of the 'Mysore Mandala' project which showcases numerous local artists coming together to create large scale Ohio depicting the culture of the region. From carvings to Mysore silk sarees, and even images capturing the essence of the local everyday marketplace. While some murals pay reverence to the historical figures of Karnataka, others serve as a reminder to treat the environment with care. These contemporary murals encourage people on the street to stop and reflect. They take a unique approach to how we view public spaces and transform them into open-air art collections. For example, one of the noticeable murals in Devaraja Market is of farmers working in green paddy fields which greatly represents the area's agriculture. Another mural displays women's empowerment through beautiful faces painted in striking colors to symbolize their pride and confidence. Such works of art reflect the fact that walls are not just walls, but tools that narrate the history of our lives. Narratives Narrated in Sculpture Religion embraces Mysore and so does its art form spaces and religion, which are all seen together appealingly. Each temple, mosque and the city's church have their special story that has been written on plasters and stones. Sculptured religion reveals every place's unique features. The Chamundeshwari Temple is without doubt the most revered among Mysore, pilgrims in Mysuru travel around the temples atop Chamundi hill. On the way to the top, walls showcasing Hindu gods and goddesses along with several themes from Hindu mythology decorate the road. From elaborately carved sculptures, to detailed paintings, everyone gets a taste of the revered Ramayana and Mahabharata. Equally, St. Philomena's Church which is designed on Cologne Cathedral in Germany has some breathtaking amazing frescoes in its interiors. These frescoes depict strong moral messages that revolve around faith, sacrifice, and redemption. At the same time, the Jama Masjid located in the downtown area of the city contains calligraphy art that is an exhibition of love to God and devotion. Echoes and Architectural Marvels The colonial history of Mysore adds another aspect to its walls that tell stories. The city was one of the foremost centers for administrative activities during British rule, and as a result, a lot of European styled buildings were constructed. The good news is that many of these buildings still exist and their facades attest to a bygone age. For instance, the Oriental Research Institute nestled in a beautiful structure which once formed part of the Mysore University complex. It is a delight pointer that Roman Greece columns and arches depict the Western touch mixed with Indian skill, which makes the building unique. Rare manuscripts and ancient texts still testify for the knowledge and scholarship that existed in the regions since time immemorial. Building memories around the Jubilee Clock Tower- a tower built during the rule of Queen Victoria. The Clock Tower might be small in size, but it has a great significance as it reminds us of the time where Mysuru was transformed into a city that was influenced by the British. The presence of the Clock Tower is so prominent that it even acts as a meeting point for the locals to share great stories of the past like it's a new refreshing novel being published. While mythological tales of gods and great kings exist, Mysore contains a different side to it that is hidden and yet to be explored. Away from the busy tourist locations, it is possible to catch a glimpse of the quiet but fascinating lives of people that includes old painted business signs, posters of ancient films, and school children's graffiti. On the other hand, in residential locations of Hebbal and Vontikoppal, streets are marked with walls that reveal the names and dates entered by lovers, friends, and even families to celebrate certain milestones. These memories, despite the simplicity, hold a great level of nostalgia making us realize that history is not only created by important events but also through the lives of ordinary people merged with hugely famous locations. Here's the conclusion: Mysore Stories Myth, Murals and Magic Mysore feels like a walk through a history book – a 'living' one. Its streets, be it walls with olden day paintings, colorful graffiti, or just scribbles, are a collection of memories and dreams and always serve to connect an era of the past with the present, the believer with the agnostic, and the individual to society. So as you explore the wonderful city, make an effort to take in the secrets and treasures Mysore has to offer. There is a lot that can be learned – from the quiet mutterings of the walls. They range from grassroots activism, royal gems, to epic tales around the metaphysical and self-centric personal milestones. Every sidelong glance, every step has a story to tell. In doing so, the enduring spirit of the city and every mural lives on with a deft brushstroke.
India.com
7 days ago
- India.com
Discover The 5 Best Mindfulness Spots In Mysuru You Can't Miss
Mysuru represents Karnataka's cultural center because the city combines rich traditional heritage with historical significance and beautiful natural surroundings. Mysuru attracts visitors because of its family background combined with peaceful surroundings enhanced by its colorful spiritual presence which creates many prospects for mindfulness experiences. People who live in Mysuru and tourists who want peace can find various excellent locations throughout the city for mindfulness practice. 1. Chamundi Hills: A Serene Escape Among the iconic landmarks of Mysuru Chamundi Hills provides an ideal space where people can practice mindfulness and spirituality. Visitors from all walks of life along with pilgrims visit the Goddess Chamundeshwari temple located on the hilltop. What truly captivates people about this location is its peaceful setting. People can walk mindfully while engaging in meditation along the serpentine temple access roads because they overlap with abundant plant life. Morning tranquil starts because of the combination of fresh breezes with the surrounding urban city views that create serene conditions for inner reflection. The spiritual energy of the site allows visitors to sit quietly on the rocks when they breathe deeply to connect with nature. 2. Brindavan Gardens: Nature's Symphony Located at a 20 kilometer distance from Mysuru you will find the Brindavan Gardens which demonstrates Mughal-style landscape design. The garden maintains supreme care to create paths that lead to symmetrical fountains and flowering arrangements which create peaceful environments for mindfulness sessions. Exploring the gardens provides visitors a chance to experience all aspects of nature through their visual and auditory sensations while enjoying its fragrance. The daily musical fountain display creates enchantment through sound to enhance evening visitors' ability to stay in the present and take pleasure in their current state. Visitors can develop their awareness while relaxing through mindful breathing or by staying by the water channels. 3. Lalitha Mahal Palace: Royal Tranquility During the Wodeyar dynasty rule, the royal Lalitha Mahal Palace established its fame for its elegant and magnificent features. As a luxury hotel the establishment still features its stately architecture and sprawling grounds that serve as ideal grounds for mindfulness practices. Guest status becomes unnecessary for you to experience the peaceful atmosphere since the palace grounds welcome everyone. The old trees cast shadows upon visitors as they wander through gardens carefully planned in the palace grounds to create spaces for relaxation and wonder. The historical relevance of the palace creates a powerful reminder about impermanence that leads people to develop gratitude and mindfulness. 4. Kukkarahalli Lake: A Haven for Birdwatchers and Meditators Kukkarahalli Lake attracts all students and residents living in the University of Mysore area. Visitors experience a peaceful respite near this lake because dense vegetation creates an atmosphere where many bird species make their home and protects against urban distractions. Through bird watching activities practitioners of mindfulness develop active meditation skills by concentrating their awareness on details and observation. Sit down on the lakeshore where you can listen to the rustling leaves throughout your observation of the lake's gentle surface ripples. The minimalist environment makes it possible for people to experience deep focused meditation. 5. Mysore Palace Grounds: Historical Reflection Visitors seeking mindfulness experiences can explore the quieter areas of Mysore Palace Grounds instead of visiting the main palace tourist attraction. The open spaces which are decorated with fountains and sculptures together with shaded walkways create a peaceful artistic character with natural elements. Coming early to visit will let you experience complete serenity by avoiding the crowds at the site. Moving to the grass without shoes soles while finding a hidden bench can enhance your understanding of yourself. The natural exploration of Mysore's development through its palace history enables visitors to feel grateful while gaining significant insights about their surroundings. Final Thoughts Mysuru stands out as an extraordinary place for people who seek mindfulness because it combines natural splendor with deep cultural heritage as well as profound spiritual meaning. The different locations throughout Mysuru including Chamundi Hills and Kukkarahalli Lake provide distinctive spaces for individuals to unite their personal self with the surrounding environment. Going through mindfulness practice at these locations allows you to develop mental clarity combined with emotional balance while improving your general well-being. Mysuru provides various locations to practice meditation along with yoga studios and opportunities for people to experience mindful walking. According to this invitation you should bring your essentials and minimize interruptions as you discover yourself in this remarkable city.
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First Post
26-05-2025
- Entertainment
- First Post
Mysore Pak renamed to Mysore Shree: The controversy and history of famous sweet, explained
Amid heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, some confectioners in Rajasthan's Jaipur are taking their patriotism one step further — renaming the renowned Mysore Pak as Mysore Shree. But does the famous Indian dessert have any connection to the neighbouring nation? read more What's in a name, is the famous line written by William Shakespeare. And it still resonates even today amid the India-Pakistan tensions. Several sweet shops in Rajasthan's Jaipur have taken quite a patriotic stance by changing the names of their popular sweets — dropping the word 'Pak' and replacing it with 'Shree'. So, if you go to a sweet store in Jaipur, the chances are you won't get Mysore Pak, but Mysore Shree and you won't Moti Pak but Moti Shree. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The news comes just days after a group of men vandalised Karachi Bakery in Hyderabad, and raised 'anti-Pakistan' slogans in front of the shop. But does one of India's most beloved sweet dishes, Mysore Pak, have anything to do with Pakistan? Here's a look at what led to the famous sweet being named Mysore Pak. Sweet beginnings behind Mysore Pak Made out of ghee, gram flour, and sugar, Mysore Pak is a famous sweet across India and is traditionally served in weddings and other festivals of southern India. It is named Mysore Pak as it originated from Karnataka's Mysore (now Mysuru) in the early 20th century. The term 'pak' comes from the Kannada word 'paaka', which refers to the process of cooking food by heating, baking or frying. Legend has it that the sweet was first cooked up in Mysuru under the rule of Krishna Raja Wodeyar IV of the Wodeyar dynasty. It was 1935 and in the Amba Vilas Palace, where he lived, there was the usual hustle and bustle before lunch for the royal family. However, King Wodeyar's chef, Kaksura Madappa, was struggling to come up with an idea of a dessert for the monarch, who was also known to be a foodie. Madappa then cooked up a combination of gram flour, ghee, and sugar and served it to Krishna Raja Wodeyar. The king liked Madappa's preparation so much, he summoned him and demanded a name for it. When asked for its name, he called it 'Mysore Pak' — with 'pak' referring to a sugar syrup-based preparation in Kannada cuisine.' Legend has it that Mysore Pak was first cooked up in Mysuru under the rule of Krishna Raja Wodeyar IV of the Wodeyar dynasty. Image Courtesy: Pixabay There's also an alternate legend. One of the owners of Guru Sweet Mart in Mysuru, which is run by the descendants of Kaksura Madappa, has a slightly different take on the origin of Mysore Pak. According to him, Madappa was asked by the king to produce a 'different' sweet, one that would go by the name of Mysore. He adds that the cook used to be called 'nalapaka' - he who makes the paka, or sugar syrup. So he cooked up this dish and called it Mysore Pak. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD But since its invention, it's become a huge hit and loved by many. As head chef and restaurant consultant Tarveen Kaur told the Indian Express, 'Over time, Mysore Pak transitioned from a palace-exclusive treat to a beloved household dessert. Local sweet shops began replicating the recipe, making it more accessible to the public.' From Mysore Pak to Mysore Shree Now, amid heightened tensions between India and Pakistan as Operation Sindoor was launched, some stores in Jaipur took a call to rename the famous sweet from Mysore Pak to Mysore Shree. Anjali Jain, the owner of Tyohaar Sweets, in Jaipur is one of the many who have switched the name from Pak to Shree. Jain was quoted as telling the Economic Times, 'The spirit of patriotism shouldn't just stay at the border, it should be in every Indian home and heart.' Bombay Misthan Bhandar, one of Jaipur's oldest sweet shops, also renamed the sweet. 'We want to send a clear message: if anyone dares to go against India, we will respond in every way. This is our sweet, symbolic answer,' Vineet Trikha, general manager at Bombay Misthan Bhandar, also told the Economic Times. And it seems that this name change has been welcomed by customers. One such customer said, 'It may seem like a small thing, but changing the names of sweets is a strong cultural message. It shows we stand with our soldiers.' A display of the Indian sweet along with its new name, Mysore Shree, in a Jaipur sweet shop. Image Courtesy: X Name change leaves a bitter aftertaste However, the Jaipur sweet store owners' decision to change the name of Mysore Pak to Mysore Shree hasn't been digested well by the descendants of Kaksura Madappa, the man behind the sweet. S Nataraj, a descendant of royal cook Kakasura Madappa, who still makes and sells Mysore Pak in Mysuru, told News18, 'Call it Mysore Pak — there can be no other name for this invention passed down by our ancestors. Just like every monument or tradition has its rightful name, Mysore Pak does too. It should not be altered or misrepresented.' STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD He further added, 'Wherever you go in the world, when someone sees the sweet, they should be able to identify and call it Mysore Pak. Nobody has the right to change its name.' Even Sumegh S, who is part of the family echoed similar sentiments. He told the media house, 'Mysore Pak is much more than a sweet. It holds deep cultural and historical significance for Mysuru and Karnataka. 'Mysore Pak is the pride of Mysuru, Karnataka, and the Kannadiga community. It reflects the sweetness of our people and the richness of Kannada culture. We only stand by the sweet our forefather created - Mysore Pak - which is now globally known. Do not drag it into unnecessary controversies.' And many others have also expressed their distaste for the name change. Taking to social media, one user wrote, 'The reason for this change among shopkeepers is 99 per cent WhatsApp forwards. And, ladies and gentlemen, introducing Reason 34, why you shouldn't graduate from WhatsApp University,' commented another. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD 'Paka' in Kannada means sweet syrup —not Pakistan! But Jaipur sweetshops, in their infinite wisdom have renamed Mysore Pak to Mysore Shree. Because clearly, dessert names now threaten national security. High on patriotism, low on brains? Peak clownery #MysorePak — Gautham Machaiah (@GauthamMachaiah) May 24, 2025 Another said, 'Crowd pulling, Pak & Paak has a lot of difference.' And a third wrote on X, 'This reflects the limited understanding of religion and culture prevalent in the country today. Consequently, terms like 'Paaka Kala' may be misconstrued as the art of Pakistan, and 'Paaka Shastra' as the scriptures of Pakistan. High level of stupidity going on in this country.' STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD With inputs from agencies
India.com
20-05-2025
- India.com
The Secret Railway Tunnels Near Mysore That Few Know About
Mysore remains well-known for its royally grand palaces while celebrating lively religious events and presenting calm rural areas. Mysore's enchanting city contains an unpublicized secret consisting of hidden railway tunnels which fascinate both historians and adventurous travelers and the community members. The unknown passages are deeply enveloped in mystique because they date back to the colonial age. Despite their lack of documentation these architectural elements are now recognized as hidden heritage within Mysore. The Historical Context Secret railway tunnels developed near Mysore during British colonial rule because India's new rail system combined economic gain with administrative powers. Railway construction extended throughout the country during this time for the movement of soldiers together with materials and supplies. As the Wodeyar dynasty governed Mysore during that era it did not escape development. Because of its strategic position the area became the main target for developing infrastructure. The late 19th century builders allegedly created these tunnels because they aimed to establish an underground transportation network to link essential Mysore locations. The Mysore Palace as well as military bases and significant locations would be included in this developmental project. The underground paths provided two key benefits as they let troops relocate fast in emergency situations yet also protected vital communication links among essential locations. Military necessity during wartime stands as a possible reason behind the existence of these underground passageways. Operations at surface-level transport networks became a wartime priority due to the fears of air raids occurring during World War II. The network of underground tunnels would serve as a protected option for supply and personnel movement which avoided drawing enemy surveillance. Location and Accessibility Accounts suggest that these tunnels exist in particular sections of Mysore although specific locations remain hidden. The entrance points to these subterranean tunnels are said to be hidden in proximity to major landmarks which include Chamundi Hill and Lalitha Mahal Palace as well as Mysore Junction railway station. The temple at Chamundi Hill which worships Goddess Chamundeshwari is surrounded by several legends about hidden passageways. Several records highlight how these underground passageways possibly link the hill area to the royal chambers but no reliable evidence supports these findings. The grand Lalitha Mahal Palace which British Viceroys occupied is supposed to contain secret entrances that lead into the extensive underground networks. Architectural Features and Engineering Marvels The engineering skills which produced these underground structures serve as one of their most interesting aspects. During the colonial period these subterranean pathways utilized progressive construction methods which were built approximately one century ago. The builders utilized stone masonry together with brick arches and reinforced concrete for resistance against destructive forces of nature and human tampering. According to several reports the tunnels contain positioning ventilation shafts to maintain fresh air flow throughout their length. The passageways were probably lit with oil lamps and gas fixtures while operating in previous times. Builder foresight comes to light through the inclusion of water drainage systems which protect the site from monsoon flooding. These tunnels were designed with functionality as their main purpose and secrecy as an additional requirement. Small carts and personal movement represent the primary allowed modes of access through narrow hallways and reduced ceilings which define most of the passageways. The design purposefully restricts the capacity to prevent their use in mass transport systems because discreet operations were their intended purpose. Modern Relevance and Preservation Efforts People today consider the secret railway tunnel system near Mysore to be primarily a myth since few are aware of their actual existence. The knowledge about their origins remains hidden because official documentation about their design objectives is missing. Time has brought urban growth and land development that successively diminished the view of any remaining physical structures. The restoration of Mysore's hidden past now receives focused attention from investigators who aim to document these important historical artifacts. Protective expert groups and researchers request extensive systematic tests and archaeological digs to authenticate historic claims while establishing their historical value. These investigative efforts would both enhance Mysore's colonial history knowledge base and increase tourist attraction value through new historical points of interest. Groups that protect heritage structures should work with government departments to maintain these tunnels if any actual tunnels exist. The preservation of these facilities requires limits on research access combined with section restoration and guided tours for public education to ensure their survival until the next generation. Conclusion These railroad tunnel structures near Mysore maintain a permanent silence to display their hidden secrets and their engineering brilliance. The resourceful nature of builders shines through the existence of these tunnels because they fulfilled different strategic purposes from military capability to disguised communications and emergency escape functions. These tunnels continue to fascinate people although many aspects about them remain speculative.
