Mysuru, Oct. 20 (SPN&DM)- Senior theatre person and former Commercial Taxes Commissioner H.S. Govindegowda recalled that renowned musician Bidaram Krishnappa, an ardent devotee of Lord Rama, built the Sri Prasanna Seetharama Mandira in Mysuru despite not owning a house in city himself.

He was speaking at ‘Tingala Tilivu,’ a monthly lecture programme organised by Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa Seva Pratishtana at Paramahamsa Dhyana Kendra, Ramakrishna Circle Ground Floor, recently.

Govindegowda narrated that the then Mysore ruler, Mummadi Krishnaraja Wadiyar, deeply impressed by the acting and singing talent of Vishwanathaiah — father of Bidaram Krishnappa — had invited him to perform at the Mysore Palace.

Following the invitation, Vishwanathaiah, along with his wife and sons Subbarayappa and Krishnappa, moved to Mysore. However, Vishwanathaiah passed away unexpectedly, leaving the family in distress.

To make ends meet, Subbarayappa and Krishnappa began singing on the Rajabeedis of Mysore. Later, with financial help from Sahukar Thimmaiah, Krishnappa learnt music under the tutelage of Karur Ramaswamy, mastering the art and rising to prominence.

Having gained fame and wealth, Krishnappa devoted himself to Lord Rama and constructed the Sri Prasanna Seetharama Mandira at Shivarampet.

Lacking sufficient funds to complete the temple, he reportedly sold his wife’s gold tali to ensure its completion. “It is noteworthy that Krishnappa built a temple without building a house for himself — a testament to his deep devotion,” Govindegowda said.

Later, Govindegowda presented theatre songs, accompanied by Kiragasur Rajappa on harmonium, Purushottam on keyboard and Jayaram on tabla.

Trust Working President Dr. S.P. Yoganna, Secretary K. Kempalingaraju, Convenor G. Chandrashekar and S. Purushottam and others were present during the event.