Tue May 20 14:49:37 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Mysuru is preparing for a grand state-level celebration of the birth anniversary of Nalwadi Krishnaraja Wadiyar, the former Maharaja of Mysore, on June 4th at Kalamandira. The event will include a procession, cultural programs, and speeches highlighting Wadiyar’s contributions to the region. The district administration is planning a larger celebration this year compared to last year’s more subdued event due to election regulations. Community leaders are advocating for wider recognition of Wadiyar’s legacy throughout Karnataka’s districts.

**News Article:**

**Mysuru Gears Up for Grand Celebration of Maharaja Nalwadi Krishnaraja Wadiyar’s Birth Anniversary**

**MYSURU, May 20, 2025** – Mysuru is preparing to host a large-scale, state-level celebration in honor of the birth anniversary of Nalwadi Krishnaraja Wadiyar, the beloved former Maharaja of Mysore, on June 4th. The event, expected to draw thousands, will take place at Kalamandira starting at 11:30 a.m., according to Deputy Commissioner G. Lakshmikanth Reddy.

The celebration will feature a grand procession commencing from the Venkataramanaswamy temple on the Palace premises and concluding at Kalamandira. The procession will showcase folk and cultural troupes, alongside a silver chariot carrying a portrait of Nalwadi Krishnaraja Wadiyar. The mounted police and police band will also participate, adding a touch of solemnity.

This year’s event is planned to be much larger than last year’s, which was a more low-key affair due to the model code of conduct being in effect. Additional Deputy Commissioner P. Shivaraju emphasized the importance of the celebration, highlighting Maharaja Wadiyar’s immense contributions to the overall development of the region.

“The district administration will conduct the event in a manner so that the ideas and ideals of Nalwadi are imbibed by the public at large,” Shivaraju stated.

Community leaders, particularly from the Ursu community, are advocating for broader recognition of Nalwadi Krishnaraja Wadiyar’s legacy, urging that his birth anniversary be celebrated in all districts of Karnataka. They also propose educating schoolchildren about his life and progressive views and organizing essay competitions on his contributions.

Nalwadi Krishnaraja Wadiyar, who ruled from 1902 to 1940, is remembered for his progressive reforms and contributions to the development of Mysuru State. He was notably hailed as a “Raja Rishi” by Mahatma Gandhi. The Mysuru City Corporation will be responsible for sprucing up the procession route and the Kalamandira premises in preparation for the event.

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