Mysore Palace: Splendid Architectural Marvel

Mysore Palace, also known as the Amba Vilas Palace, is a splendid architectural marvel with a rich history and cultural significance. The history and significance of Mysore Palace are deeply intertwined with the legacy of the Wadiyar dynasty and the cultural heritage of Mysore.

With the Chamundi Hills towards its eastern side, the spectacle of the Mysore Palace is an enchanting sight to behold. Needless to say, it is the second most visited historical monument visited by both local and foreign tourists after the Taj Mahal. Presently located inside the Old Fort, Mysore Palace is renowned for its light & sound show and vibrant Dussehra celebrations.

Here’s a detailed overview covering various aspects:

Early History:

1. Origins of the Palace:
   • The first palace on the site was built in the 14th century by Yaduraya Wadiyar, the founder of the Wadiyar dynasty. It was a simple structure made of wood and mud.
2. Wadiyar Dynasty:
   • The Wadiyars took control of Mysore in the 16th century, and the palace became the seat of the Wadiyar rulers.
3. Shriva Jayarama Wadiyar:
   • The expansion of the palace complex began under Shriva Jayarama Wadiyar in the 18th century, who initiated the construction of a more substantial structure.

British Era and the Wooden Palace:

1. The 1897 Fire:
   • In 1897, a fire caused by a lightning strike destroyed the wooden palace, leading to the decision to rebuild a grander structure.
2. Design by Henry Irwin:
   • The new palace was designed by Henry Irwin, the British architect, in the Indo-Saracenic style, incorporating a blend of Hindu, Islamic, Rajput, and Gothic architectural elements.

The Construction of the Current Palace:

1. Construction Period:
   • The construction of the current Mysore Palace took place between 1897 and 1912.
2. Material Used:
   • The palace was constructed using gray granite stones sourced from the quarries of the nearby regions of Mysore.
3. Cost of Construction:
   • The total cost of constructing the palace was estimated to be around four million rupees at the time.

Features and Architecture:

Mysore Palace is a splendid example of Indo-Saracenic architecture, blending elements of Hindu, Muslim, Rajput, and Gothic styles.

1. Three-Story Structure:
   • Mysore Palace is a three-story stone structure with a series of impressive domes and arches, adorned with intricate carvings.
2. The Amba Vilas Structure:
   • The palace is often referred to as the Amba Vilas Palace, named after the goddess Amba (Durga), the family deity of the Wadiyars.
3. Royal Marriage Hall:
   • The Kalyana Mantapa or the Marriage Hall inside the palace is an expansive hall with stained glass ceilings and ornate artwork.
4. Public Durbar Hall:
   • The Durbar Hall is where the formal ceremonies and meetings took place during the reign of the Wadiyars.

Significance and Cultural Heritage:

1. Cultural Hub:
   • Mysore Palace has been a cultural hub, hosting numerous traditional events, festivals, and the grand Dasara celebrations.
2. Dasara Celebrations:
   • The palace is the centerpiece of the world-famous Mysore Dasara festival, a ten-day celebration featuring a grand procession, cultural events, and illumination of the palace.
   • Witness the breathtaking illumination of Mysore Palace during special occasions and festivals. The palace is beautifully lit up with thousands of bulbs, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.
3. Preservation Efforts:
   • Over the years, there have been continuous efforts to preserve and restore the palace to maintain its historical and cultural significance.
4. Tourist Attraction:
   • Mysore Palace attracts millions of tourists annually, providing them with a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Wadiyars and the cultural heritage of Mysore.
5. Heritage Symbol:
   • It stands as a symbol of Mysore’s rich heritage and serves as a reminder of the royal legacy of the Wadiyar dynasty.

Lesser-Known Facts:

1. Secret Passages:
   • Rumors persist about the existence of secret passages within the palace used by the royal family. While some are confirmed, others remain part of local folklore.
2. Royal Elephant Howdah:
   • The palace houses a golden howdah (carriage) that is used to carry the idol of the goddess during the Dasara procession.

Post-Independence Era:

1. Conversion into a Museum:
   • After India gained independence, the palace was converted into a museum to showcase the royal heritage, including artifacts, clothing, and portraits of the Wadiyar kings.
2. Restoration Efforts:
   • Over the years, there have been ongoing efforts to restore and preserve the palace. Renovation projects aim to maintain the grandeur and historical integrity of the structure.

Best Time To Visit Mysore Palace :

The best time to visit the palace is around the time of Dussehra when the entire compound is beautifully decorated and lit, illuminated in a golden hue.

The palace is lit every Sunday and on all public holidays.

How To Reach Mysore Palace :

Mysore Palace is located right in the heart of Mysore city. The Mufesal Bus stand is located just a couple of kilometres away from the palace. The KSRTC buses operate from this bus stand at short intervals. You can then walk from the bus stand to the north gate or the east gate of the palace. Alternatively, you can hire an auto rickshaw from the bus stand to the palace gate. If you are travelling by train to Mysore, you can hire an auto rickshaw from outside the station to reach the palace.

Recommended Reads and Sources:

1. Books:
   • “Palace of a Thousand Doors” by T.S. Satyan
   • “The Palaces of Memory” by George Michell
2. Official Websites:
   • Check the official website of Mysore Palace and local tourism websites for detailed information and updates.