Mysore (Mysuru) is a city where history breathes through its grand palaces, vibrant festivals, and time-honoured crafts. Yet, as the 21st century accelerates urbanisation and globalisation, Mysore’s heritage faces a delicate balancing act—preserving its past while embracing progress. This article explores the triumphs and trials of conserving Mysore’s legacy, from its architectural marvels to intangible traditions, and the urgent need for sustainable solutions.
Mysore’s Heritage: A Tapestry of Treasures
1. Architectural Splendors
Mysore Palace: The iconic seat of the Wadiyar dynasty, a blend of Indo-Saracenic architecture, attracts millions annually. The Karnataka government meticulously maintains its intricate frescoes, stained glass, and royal artefacts.
Jaganmohan Palace: Now an art gallery, it houses rare paintings and sculptures showcasing Mysore’s patronage of the arts.
Historic Temples: The Chamundeshwari Temple and St. Philomena’s Cathedral symbolise the city’s spiritual diversity.
2. Living Traditions
Dasara Festival: A 400-year-old dance, music, and procession celebration rooted in Mysore’s royal legacy.
Mysore Silk & Sandalwood Crafts: Protected under Geographical Indication (GI) tags, these industries are cultural cornerstones.
3. Natural Heritage
Chamundi Hills: A biodiversity hotspot and pilgrimage site.
Karanji & Kukkarahalli Lakes: Urban oases critical to local ecology and recreation.
Conservation Efforts: Guardians of the Past
1. Government Initiatives
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and Karnataka State Archaeology Department oversee monument restoration. Recent projects include strengthening the structural foundation of Mysore Palace and revitalising the colonial façade of Devaraja Market.
Smart City Mission: Funds allocated for heritage-sensitive infrastructure, such as pedestrianising heritage zones and installing eco-friendly lighting.
2. Community & NGO Roles
INTACH Mysore Chapter: Documents heritage sites and advocates for preservation. Their work includes restoring the Lansdowne Building and promoting heritage walks.
Craft Revival: NGOs like Cauvery Handicrafts empower artisans through training and market access, ensuring the survival of traditions like rosewood inlay and Bidriware.
3. Digital Preservation
3D scanning of monuments and digitising archives at the Oriental Research Institute protect historical records. Virtual tours of Mysore Palace during COVID-19 bridged accessibility gaps.
Challenges: Threats to a Timeless Legacy
1. Urbanization Pressures
Infrastructure projects like the proposed Mysore Metro risk encroaching on heritage sites. The 2022 controversy over road expansion near Cheluvamba Mansion highlighted tensions between development and preservation.
2. Environmental Degradation
Air pollution erodes stone carvings, while water scarcity threatens Karanji Lake’s ecosystem. Invasive species in Chamundi Hills disrupt native biodiversity.
3. Socio-Economic Shifts
Declining Artisan Numbers: Younger generations abandon traditional crafts for urban jobs, risking the extinction of skills like Mysore painting. Only 200 master silk weavers remain, down from 1,000 a decade ago.
Commercialisation of Culture: Dasara’s essence is diluted by commercial sponsorships, sidelining folk artists like Dollu Kunitha troupes.
4. Tourism’s Double-Edged Sword
While tourism funds conservation, overcrowding strains sites. Mysore Palace received 6.2 million visitors in 2023, leading to wear and tear on fragile interiors.
5. Funding Gaps
Limited budgets delay restorations. The 2021 audit of Karnataka’s heritage fund revealed only 40% of allocated funds were utilised due to bureaucratic delays.
Case Studies: Successes and Struggles
1. Success: Revival of Mysore Pak
This iconic sweet regained prominence through GI tagging and culinary tourism once fading. Local chefs like Venkatesh Bhat innovate while preserving traditional recipes.
2. Struggle: Terracotta Crafts of Moleyar
Despite NGO efforts, only 15 families practice terracotta pottery today, down from 100 in the 1990s. Rising material costs and low profitability threaten extinction.
3. Controversy: Chamundi Hills Development
Plans for a ropeway sparked protests in 2023, with activists arguing it would disrupt wildlife and pilgrimage sanctity. The project remains stalled, reflecting the clash between tourism and conservation.
The Path Ahead: Strategies for Sustainable Preservation
1. Integrate Heritage in Urban Planning
Adopt UNESCO’s Historic Urban Landscape approach, ensuring new developments respect heritage sightlines and materials.
2. Boost Community Engagement
Empower locals through heritage clubs and citizen audits. Inspired by Delhi, Mysore’s “Adopt a Monument” program could involve schools and businesses.
3. Leverage Technology
Use AI for predictive maintenance of monuments and augmented reality (AR) to enhance visitor experiences without physical strain.
4. Sustainable Tourism Models
Implement ticketing caps at sensitive sites and promote off-season travel. Homestays in heritage homes, like the 150-year-old Lalitha Mahal Palace Hotel, offer immersive, low-impact tourism.
5. Strengthen Policies
Enforce stricter penalties for vandalism and illegal construction. Karnataka’s proposed Heritage Act must prioritise stakeholder input.
6. Revive Education & Crafts
Introduce heritage curricula in schools and subsidise artisan apprenticeships. The Mysore Silk Weavers Cooperative partners with NIFT to blend traditional designs with contemporary fashion.
Preserving Mysore’s heritage is not a task for historians alone—it demands collective action. Each stakeholder, from policymakers to tourists, holds a thread in this cultural tapestry. As urban planner Raghvendra Singh notes, “Heritage is not a relic to be exhibited in museums, but a living narrative to be woven into tomorrow.”
Mysore’s future hinges on honouring its past. By marrying innovation with tradition, fostering grassroots stewardship, and redefining progress as harmony rather than conquest, the city can safeguard its soul for centuries.
Visit Mysore not just as a tourist but as a custodian. Carry back memories, leave behind respect, and join the chorus of voices, ensuring that Mysore’s heritage remains preserved and alive.