Soon to be titular king, Yaduveer keen on conserving heritage, promoting tourism

In his maiden interaction with the media, especially ahead of donning a new role as the 27th titular king of the Yadu dynasty on May 28, Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar, on Monday, spoke his mind, almost, about his vision to conserve the heritage and carry forward the legacy of his ancestors. Most importantly, about his fiancee, with whom he is expected to enter wedlock at the fag end of this year. Here are the excerpts.

Media: Are you looking forward to the event?
Yaduveer: Yes, I am very delighted and looking forward to the ceremony. I am trying to acclimatise myself with the rituals.

Are you going through the history related to coronation?
I am going through the photographs related to the coronation of my foster father Srikantadatta Narasimharaja Wadiyar and grandfather Jayachamaraja Wadiyar.
Following coronation, it will be a new chapter in your life.

It’s a new chapter indeed. I am just two weeks old in the Palace and trying to understand the nitty-gritty. I knew it was coming and am taking it to the next level, after the adoption ceremony.

Srikantadatta Wadiyar was keen on promoting tourism, palaces...
I also have similar plans and will have to sit down later to ponder over, before going ahead with it. The heritage should be kept alive.Wadiyar senior wanted to set up a separate university...

Yeah, I am aware of it. We should study our potential. Before that, I should accustom myself with the rituals and business related to the family.

Coming back to Wadiyar, he was more like a brand ambassador for Mysuru. Will you be able to fill the gap that has been created after his demise?
Yes, I think so. I will build up to the expectations. South India has a tremendous potential for heritage and should retain the vibrancy of Karnataka.

What about your higher studies?
What I want to do exactly has not been defined yet. I should think of the university, entrance exams and many more things. Higher education is on my mind.

Have you invited your fiancee (for coronation ceremony)?
Her name is Trishika Kumari. She is expected to be here for the ceremony.

Are you tying the knot this year?
It is obviously another chapter in my life. But it is too early to discuss about it. (intervenes Pramoda Devi Wadiyar). If planets permit, yes, the wedding will take place this year.

What about your interest in sports, especially running?
I know it will be not that easy to run in the open after donning the new role.
I will find a way out to pursue my interest.