On June 4, 2025, Mysore will come alive with celebrations honoring Nalwadi Krishnaraja Wadiyar Jayanthi, the birth anniversary of Maharaja Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV, who ruled the Kingdom of Mysore from 1884 until his passing in 1940.
Born on 4 June 1884 at the majestic Mysore Palace, this iconic ruler wasn’t just a king; he was a philosopher, reformer, statesman, and a saintly soul, remembered for transforming Mysore into what many described as a model state—a Rama Rajya.
“Nalwadi” meaning “the fourth” in Kannada, marked him as the 24th Maharaja of Mysore. He ascended to the throne following the untimely demise of his father, Maharaja Chamarajendra Wadiyar X in 1894. The young prince was just 11 years old when he ascended the throne.In this delicate period, the mantle of leadership was held by his mother, Maharani Kempananjammanni, who acted as regent, steering the kingdom with prudence and care until her son was ready to assume full control. That momentous day arrived on 8 February 1902, when Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV formally took over the reins of power.
Even as a young boy, Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV’s education was meticulously planned. He was tutored at the Lokaranjan Palace, under the capable guidance of P. Raghavendra Rao and later trained in administration by Sir Stuart Fraser of the British Civil Service, who served as his Tutor and Governor from 1896 to 1902. His curriculum blended Western and Indian knowledge—he mastered Kannada and Sanskrit, studied jurisprudence, revenue systems, and was also trained in Indian and Western classical music as well as horse riding. Far from being a passive learner, the Maharaja took part in extensive state tours that helped him understand the pulse of the people and the intricacies of his kingdom.
His education wasn’t just a royal obligation—it was an investment in Mysore’s future. And it paid rich dividends. His ascension on 8 August 1902 marked the beginning of what is often called the “Golden Age of Mysore”. Under his reign, the state witnessed unprecedented progress in education, public health, arts, industry, and infrastructure. What made his administration exceptional was not just the modernization he championed, but the deep ethical and philosophical grounding with which he governed.
International and national figures alike recognized his greatness. Perhaps the most resounding endorsement came from Lord John Sankey, who at the Round Table Conference in London in 1930, proclaimed, “Mysore is the best administered state in the world.”
Adding to the richness of his life was his royal union. On 6 June 1900, he married Pratapa Kumari Ammani, the youngest daughter of Rana Sri Bane Sinhji Sahib of Vana, a noble lineage from present-day Gujarat. The grand ceremony was more than a royal affair—it was a symbol of Mysore’s growing stature and respect across the princely states of India. The new Maharani belonged to the prestigious Jhala clan of Rajputs, further strengthening the cultural and political ties between Mysore and the Kathiawar region.
The legacy of Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV is not just etched in stone monuments or royal records—it lives on in Mysore’s libraries, universities, public hospitals, and cultural institutions, many of which were established or expanded during his reign. His governance style drew inspiration from Plato’s Republic, earning him admiration from Western thinkers like Paul Brunton, who saw in him the very embodiment of a philosopher king.
Krishna Raja Wadiyar IV, stands out as one of India’s most progressive and enlightened figures in history. His reign, spanning the early 20th century, marked a period of unprecedented development across infrastructure, education, social reform, and culture, setting Mysore apart as a beacon of modernity and good governance.
In the realm of infrastructure, the Maharaja, Krishnaraja Wadiyar was a pioneer in harnessing technology to propel his state forward. The first of what would be many contributions by the new king, the Shivanasamudra Falls hydroelectric project was commissioned in 1902 under his patronage, becoming the first hydroelectric power plant in Asia.This milestone powered a revolutionary transformation when Bangalore became the first city in India—and Asia—to have electric street lights in 1905, illuminating the city and symbolizing a leap toward urban modernization. The Maharaja Krishnaraja Wadiyar’s vision culminated in the monumental Krishna Raja Sagar (KRS) Dam, completed in 1932 despite daunting financial challenges. When government funds fell short, the Maharani Kempananjammanni’s selfless donation of her gold jewelry inspired citizens to contribute, underscoring the dam’s foundation in collective sacrifice. This infrastructure not only assured water security for irrigation and drinking but also generated hydroelectric power vital for Mysore’s growth.
The king’s commitment extended to transport and urban planning. The Mysore State Railway expanded significantly under his reign, and key civic landmarks such as Bangalore Town Hall were established. Pioneering urban governance, the City Improvement Trust Board was set up—India’s first such body focused on systematic city planning.
Education flourished as a cornerstone of the Maharaja’s vision. He laid the groundwork for numerous institutions, including the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) in 1909, established on 400 acres of royal land gifted by the Maharaja himself. This act was crucial in fulfilling Jamsetji Tata’s dream of a premier scientific research institute in India. The University of Mysore, Mysore Medical College, and several colleges for women followed, demonstrating the Maharaja Visvesvaraya is regarded in India as one of the foremost civil engineers whose birthday, 15 September, is celebrated every year as Engineer’s Day, Dewan of Mysore at the time of Maharaja Krishnaraja Wadiyar’s unwavering belief in accessible, quality education. During a period riddled with public health crises, he also prioritized healthcare infrastructure, exemplified by his support for the Minto Eye Hospital and the establishment of Mysore Medical College, creating foundations for modern medicine in the region.
The Maharaja’s reign witnessed vigorous industrial and economic growth. From founding the State Bank of Mysore to nurturing manufacturing enterprises like the Mysore Sandalwood Oil Factory, Visvesvaraya Iron & Steel Plant, and Mysore Paper Mills, his policies fostered a diversified industrial base that laid the groundwork for Mysore’s economic resilience.
A visionary in science and technology, the Maharaja’s foresight led to the establishment of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in 1940, heralding Mysore’s entry into the aviation sector. His patronage extended beyond infrastructure to fostering research, innovation, and technical education.
The Maharaja’s progressive social reforms were revolutionary for his time. Mysore became one of the first Indian state to enfranchise women in 1923, while child marriage was banned, untouchability was criminalized, and significant reservations for backward classes were introduced. His landmark act of inviting untouchables into the royal durbar during the 1936 Dasara celebrations broke caste barriers and exemplified his commitment to social equality. His emphasis on compulsory primary education and support for marginalized communities laid the foundation for an inclusive society.
But beyond his sharp intellect and administrative acumen, the Maharaja was also a true patron of the arts, a hallmark that set his reign apart. A consummate musician, he is said to have mastered an impressive eight musical instruments, including the flute, violin, saxophone, piano, mridangam, nadaswara, sitar, and veena. His court welcomed luminaries from the world of music such as the legendary artists of the Agra Gharana—Natthan Khan and Ustad Vilayat Hussain Khan—as well as stalwarts like Abdul Karim Khan and Gauhar Jan. This patronage created a rich cultural milieu that elevated Mysore’s status as a hub of artistic excellence.
The Maharaja’s support extended beyond music. He nurtured literary talents like Asthana Vidwan Kadagathur Seshacharya, a distinguished scholar whose contributions to Sanskrit and Kannada literature included poetry that enriched the state’s cultural heritage.He championed architectural marvels like Lalitha Mahal Palace and St. Philomena’s Church, and nurtured the classical music tradition. The famous Mysore Pak sweet is attributed to his legendary sweet tooth, reflecting his cultural influence beyond governance.
Administratively, Mysore was acclaimed globally as one of the best-governed states, earning praise at the Round Table Conference and recognition from British officials and Indian leaders alike. the Maharaja’s role as co-founder and first Chancellor of Banaras Hindu University further exemplified his commitment to education and nation-building.
His legacy also includes the founding of new towns such as Krishnarajanagara and administrative reforms that strengthened rural cooperatives, underscoring his holistic approach to governance.
Today, Krishna Raja Wadiyar IV is remembered fondly as the Rajarshi, a title given by Mahatma Gandhi — a saintly king whose vision, sacrifice, and enlightened leadership transformed Mysore into a model state and inspired generations. His reign remains a testament to how wise and compassionate rule can harness tradition and modernity to build a prosperous and just society.
The genius of Maharaja Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV lay not merely in his vision but in his ability to delegate power with trust, wisdom, and foresight. Unlike rulers who centralized authority, the Maharaja believed in building a team of exceptional minds and allowing them full autonomy to govern. His administration was marked by meritocracy, innovation, and a deep commitment to public welfare. During his four-decade reign, he appointed some of the most capable Dewans (Chief Ministers) India has seen—each a pioneer in their own right.
Among them was Sir K. Seshadri Iyer, under whom the Shivanasamudra Hydroelectric Project brought electricity to Asia for the first time. Sir M. Visvesvaraya, an engineering legend, constructed the Krishna Raja Sagar Dam and laid the foundation for industrial modernization. Sir Mirza Ismail advanced civic infrastructure, promoted industries, and enriched cultural institutions. These Dewans enjoyed full confidence and support from the Maharaja, enabling them to execute far-reaching reforms without interference.
This collaborative model of governance was rare among Indian princely states and earned the Maharaja immense respect across the political spectrum.The Maharaja did not merely reign; he created an administrative culture where expertise was valued, leadership was distributed, and the future was built on ideas—not ego.
The Maharaja’s extraordinary contributions were widely celebrated and acknowledged. He was the recipient of multiple prestigious awards and decorations, both British and Indian. These include the Knight Grand Commander of the Order of the Star of India (GCSI) in 1907, the Knight Grand Cross of the Order of the British Empire (GBE) in 1917, and the Bailiff Grand Cross of the Order of St. John (GCStJ) in 1911. He received both Delhi Durbar Gold Medals (1903 and 1911), the King George V Silver Jubilee Medal (1935), and the King George VI Coronation Medal (1937). He was also conferred an honorary doctorate by Banaras Hindu University in 1937, and posthumously by the University of Mysore in 2011—testaments to his enduring legacy in education and governance.
The Maharaja Krishnaraja Wadiyar’s character shone brightest not just in policy chambers, but in moments of personal courage. One such incident occurred on a treacherous mountain road where his car startled a convoy of 22 bullock carts, pushing the lead cart perilously close to a cliff. Realizing the danger, the Maharaja ordered the vehicle’s headlights off, jumped out, calmed the frightened animals, and—with bleeding hands—pulled each cart to safety.
In another episode, he responded to a desperate plea from the Soliga tribes in Bandipur to stop a rogue elephant terrorizing the forest. Known for his marksmanship, the Maharaja ventured deep into the jungle, located the beast, and neutralized the threat—saving lives and restoring safety. Yet another time in Ooty, during a routine morning ride, he spotted a British man unconscious after falling off a horse. Without a second thought, he climbed down a steep slope, lifted the injured man on his shoulders, and carried him to the hospital. In all these instances, the Maharaja exemplified not only bravery but also a profound empathy that transcended race, class, and status.
In the old Mysore region, people still regard the Wodeyars of Mysore as divine figures. In fact, during Dussehra, there is a tradition of displaying two wooden dolls called Pattada Bombe alongside the other festive doll arrangements. These wooden dolls symbolise the Maharaja and Maharani—alongside traditional figurines. These dolls are not mere decoration; they are venerated as a tribute to the Wodeyar’s selfless service and spiritual stature. In a land where kings are often remembered for conquests, the Maharaja is honoured for the wars he waged against poverty, illiteracy, and inequality.
The institutions he founded—universities, hospitals, dams, and cultural academies—remain operational to this day, serving as living monuments to a ruler who chose progress over pride and people over power. His was a legacy not of swords, but of schools; not of forts, but of forward-thinking reforms.
Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV passed away unexpectedly from a heart attack on August 3, 1940, at the age of just 56. His death marked the end of what many regard as the Golden Age of Mysore—an era that redefined princely governance in colonial India. At the time of his passing, his personal wealth was estimated at $400 million, equivalent to over $7 billion in today’s value. Yet, what he left behind was far more valuable—a blueprint for inclusive governance, a culture of intellectual rigor, and an ethos of public service that continues to inspire.
In the pages of Indian history, Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV occupies a unique place. His life is a reminder that true leadership lies not in command, but in compassion; not in control, but in the courage to empower others.
