Mysore/Mysuru: At a recent gathering to commemorate the release of the book ‘Rajarshi Srimanmaharaja Jayachamarajendra Wadiyar Bahadur – Jeevana Mattu Sadhanegalu (1919-1974),’ authored by retired History Professor Dr. B.V. Sudhamani, Senior Research Scholar Prof. T.V. Venkatachala Sastry expressed the need to compile an engaging volume that highlights the life and accomplishments of Sri Jayachamarajendra Wadiyar.

The event, held at Vijnana Bhavan, Manasagangothri, on Sept. 23, was organised by the Maharaja Sri Jayachamaraja Wadiyar Pratishtana, Bengaluru and Samskruthi Book Agencies, Mysuru. The two-volume book was unveiled by Sri Jayachamarajendra Wadiyar’s daughters, Kamakshi Devi and Indrakshi Devi.

Prof. Sastry fondly recalled anecdotes shared by Prof. M.H. Gopal, who had taught Economics to Sri Jayachamarajendra Wadiyar. He emphasised that Jayachamarajendra Wadiyar had been a diligent student who attended classes just like any other student.

“In one instance, when Jayachamarajendra Wadiyar got 53 out of 100 marks in English, Wadiyar asked his Professor whether the marks were granted because of his royal status. The Professor had clarified that he had evaluated the paper objectively,” he recalled.

Prof. Sastry stressed the importance of documenting lesser-known stories about Jayachamarajendra Wadiyar, particularly his contributions as a philosopher and his dedication to literature and music. Wadiyar authored numerous books and composed music with great passion, making significant contributions to the cultural heritage of the State.

Prof. Sastry further pointed out that while some information about Wadiyar’s childhood, life and administration during the transformation of old Mysore State into modern Karnataka has been published, Dr. B.V. Sudhamani’s volumes provide a comprehensive account of these aspects in a simple and engaging style. These volumes, he concluded, would be invaluable for students, historians and literary enthusiasts.

Kamakshi Devi expressed her pride in her father’s compassionate and benevolent nature. She highlighted his dedication to the welfare of the people, a quality that is still held in reverence by the people of the State.

The event was presided over by R. Raja Chandra, husband of Indrakshi Devi and also featured remarks from author  Dr. Sudhamani.

Samskruthi Subramanya of Samskruthi Book Agencies and other dignitaries were present.