By R.G. Singh, Secretary, Ramsons Kala Pratishtana

H.H. Maharaja Jayachamaraja Wadiyar was well-known for his marksmanship and was highly sought after by his subjects whenever a rogue elephant or a man-eating tiger attacked their immediate surroundings.

There are many wildlife trophies attributed to him in the Palace collections.”

— Excerpt from the booklet — 100 — Birth Centenary Tribute 2019.

In this undated photograph, in an unidentified location, the young Maharaja is seen riding atop an elephant clutching a gun on a hunting expedition. A diamond ear stud sparkles in his earlobe. The casual demeanour of the young royal is endearing in this discreet shot. A fixed mount, used for taking a steady aim, is visible in front of him. Forest officer Mr. Neelakanta Rao can be seen holding a double barrel gun in his left hand and seems to be giving instructions. The other gentleman and the mahout remain unidentified. Two gentlemen and the Maharaja are sporting French pith helmet hats which was a European addition to the traditional Shikar while the mahout sports a turban.

Later in life, the Maharaja was chosen to head the Indian Board for Wild Life (IBWL) which was established in 1952 to advice the Government of India on wildlife conservation, prevent the extinction of species and promote wildlife awareness. It was renamed Central Board for Wild Life during its first meeting held at Lalitha Mahal Palace in November 1952. It was and is an advisory board chaired by the Prime Minister. Since 2003, it is called as the National Board for Wild Life. H.H. was chosen to head this advisory board for his and his predecessors’ extensive conservation record in the then Mysore State.

[Collection: Ramsons Kala Pratishtana; Size: 27×18 cms]