Mysuru, Karnataka - October 17, 2025:

As part of Press Information Bureau (PIB) Shillong’s ongoing press tour across Karnataka, a delegation of Journalists from Meghalaya and Tripura visited the world-renowned Mysuru Palace on Thursday. 

The visit offered an in-depth knowledge about the historical grandeur and cultural richness of Karnataka’s royal heritage. The delegation was warmly received at the palace complex, where Shri Nayak, Curator of Mysuru Palace, personally guided them through the iconic structure. Shri Nayak shared fascinating tales from the palace’s past, its architectural splendor, royal traditions, and enduring legacy.

The current Mysuru Palace, also known as Amba Vilas Palace, was built in 1912 after the previous wooden structure was destroyed by fire in 1897. Commissioned by Krishna Raja Wadiyar IV and designed by British architect Henry Irwin, the palace is an architectural fusion of Indo-Saracenic, Dravidian and Gothic styles, featuring domes, expansive courtyards, ornamental arches and stained-glass interiors. Two special features in the construction of this Palace are noteworthy: utilisation of local materials as far as possible and adoption of fire proof methods of construction which was to be essential future of the new design.

The main building is of massive grey granite, three storeyed, and dominated by a five storeyed tower covered by a guilded dome. The tower is about 145 feet from the ground to the golden flag on its summit, the imposing facade has seven big arches and two small arches flanking the central arch, supported by tall pillars.

Above the central arches, as the parapet is the sculpture of Gajalakshmi. The palace, like the old, is built around an open court-yard, called Thotti, open to the sky. To the east of this Thotti on the ground floor, is the impressive elephant gate.

Immediately to the south is the beautiful Kalyana Mantap or the Marriage Pavilion. On the first floor, still facing east, is the great Durbar Hall, Divan-E-Aam. On the same floor, towards the south is a daintily decorated private Durbar Hall, called Ambavilasa, the Diwan-E-Khas.

Shri Nayak highlighted the vision of the Wadiyar rulers, who were known for their administrative excellence as well as their patronage of arts, music, literature and architecture.

The palace also houses several original works by Raja Ravi Varma, whose iconic paintings of Indian mythology and royal portraits remain a major attraction. His presence in the Wadiyar court reflected the dynasty’s deep appreciation for fine arts.

Another highlight of the visit was the viewing of the Golden Throne (Suvarna Simhasana), a legendary symbol of royal authority and ritual significance. The throne is crafted in gold and inlaid with precious stones.

The Journalists expressed deep admiration for the Mysuru Palace and its rich tapestry of history, art, and tradition. 

The visit to Mysuru Palace offered the Journalists a glimpse into Karnataka’s royal legacy and an opportunity to appreciate the shared cultural heritage. With its legendary Golden Throne, the timeless works of Raja Ravi Varma, and a rich royal history, the palace continues to stand as a proud symbol of India’s glorious past.

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