JOIN US'Government, people oblivious of Wadiyars' contributions to society'
Mysore and Kodagu MP A H Vishwanath on Sunday bemoaned successive governments and people forgetting the contributions of erstwhile rulers of Mysore, the Wadiyars.
Participating in the 94th vardhanthi of the 25th and last ruler of Mysore, Jayachamaraja Wadiyar, organised by Sri Manteswamy Mutt, Boppegowdanapura and Karnataka Rajya Arasu Mahasabha, at Rani Bahadur Hall, Manasagangotri, here, Vishwanath, who became emotional, recalled how his grandfather Thammanna Gowda, a paddy vendor had held the Maharaja in reverence.
“Earlier, Jamboo Savari was referred to as ‘pouju’ (may be ‘fauj’ a Persian word for army) and my grandfather used to wear a long coat for the occasion.
“As soon as the howdah carrying the Maharaja came in sight during the procession, he, along with other people, would offer respects to the Maharaja with folded hands”, said Vishwanath.
“According to my grandfather, the Maharaja was not just a king, but also the man who gave life to all,” said Vishwanath.
Later, post-Independence, when D Devaraja Urs became Chief Minister of the State, he delivered goods in the same zeal.
If mutts are known for their services in the field of education, Wadiyars have left an indelible mark in all fields,” Vishwanath said.
Must stop
Vishwanath said, attempts to malign great personalities like social reformer Basavanna must stop.
Quoting the recent incident of a movie named after Basavanna, that generated sufficient heat, forcing the producers to change the title to ‘Brahmana’, only to aggravate the issue further, Viswhanath said such attempts in the name of freedom of expression should be stopped.
Some times, even a few authors bring out books, fulminating a person, religion or even achievers, he said.
‘Alamelammana Shaapa: Ondu Shava Pareekshe’ (Curse of Alamelamma: A post-mortem) authored by P V Nanjaraj Urs was released. The book, according to journalist Ravindra Bhat, delves into the popular curse of Alamelamma that left a lasting impact on the Wadiyars.
Earlier, a documentary on Jayachamaraja Wadiyar gave a peek into the past royals and the Jamboo Savari captured in black and white.