Contributions of Sir Mirza hailed

Dewan Sir Mirza Ismail was known for his loyalty towards the Maharaja of Mysore and was wedded to his duty irrespective of circumstances, opined former Vice Chancellor Dr B Sheikh Ali.

He was speaking at the State-level seminar on ‘The Achievements of Dewan Sir Mirza Ismail’ organised by the Department of Studies, History, University of Mysore and Kannada University, Hampi at the Rani Bahadur Auditorium, in the city on Wednesday.

Describing the importance of continuing studies in history, Dr Ali said, “A country that forgets its past has no future at all.” Furthermore, he said that history is the vital magistrate that passes the final decree. He observed that history is liquid philosophy, it is not frozen, and is present at all times.

He criticised the policies of both Central and State governments ignoring the study of art, while at the same time promoting science and technology on a grander scale.
Observing the reducing number of students in art departments, Dr Ali said that art should be equal importance as science and technology.

He said that materialism and globalisation are the major factors destroying the rich culture of the country. He said that India is in a position to give moral strength to whole world.

Pro-Chancellor, Central University, Gulbarga, Dr S Chandrashekar said that very less is known about the work of Ismail who became dewan during 1926 and 1940.He urged for the need to conduct research and collect material related to Sir Ismail. A few details about the work of Sir Ismail is available in the newspapers of that time. Textbooks concentrate on the contributions of Nalwadi Krishnaraja Wadiyar and Sir M Visvesvaraya, while forgetting to mention the achievements of Sir Ismail.

Former Vice Chancellor Dr O Anantharamaiah, Vice Chancellor, Kannada University, Hampi, Dr A Murigeppa, Head of the Department, History, KU, Dr N Chinnaswamy Sosale were present.