Website of multi-purpose cultural landmark jcacmysuru.com launched

The website of Jagannatha Centre for Art and Culture (JCAC), a newly established multi-purpose cultural hub, was officially launched last evening at its premises in Vijayanagar 2nd Stage, Mysuru.

JCAC, envisioned as a vibrant space for artistic expression and cultural dialogue, aims to foster creativity, innovation and enrichment by bringing together performing artistes, artists and art enthusiasts under one roof.

Built on a one-acre land by Saraswathi Education and Cultural Trust, affiliated with Mangalore Ganesh Beedi Works and spearheaded by Dr. M. Jagannath Shenoy, JCAC is poised to become a key addition to Mysuru’s cultural infrastructure.

The website was inaugurated by Dr. K.B. Ganapathy (KBG), Founder-Editor, Star of Mysore and Mysuru Mithra. JCAC’s website will serve as a key access point for bookings of upcoming events and updates, marking a new chapter in Mysuru’s cultural journey.

Limited cultural venues

Speaking at the launch, KBG said, “This is indeed a rare and much-needed centre for art and culture. Since 1970, I have had a deep connection with Mysuru and as a journalist, I have worked closely with artistes and writers, which only deepened my own interest in literature, music and culture.”

He reflected on the limited cultural venues that existed in the past. “Back in the day, if someone wanted to attend a play, visit a museum or enjoy an art exhibition, the only venues available were the Jaganmohan Palace auditorium or the Town Hall. The contribution of industrialists to art and culture has been minimal compared to the generous patronage of the Wadiyars of Mysore,” KBG noted.

He recalled the establishment of Karnataka Kalamandira during 1980-82, when R. Gundu Rao was the Chief Minister. “A few artistes and I met him to push for an auditorium, which led to its construction. Later, along with journalist Rajshekhar Koti and others, we tried to set up an art gallery, but the effort stalled after Koti’s untimely demise.”

“Now, noted industrialist and art patron Dr. Jagannath Shenoy has stepped in to fill that cultural void in Mysuru. His contribution is highly commendable,” Dr. Ganapathy added.

Need for promotion

Dr. C.G. Narasimhan, Senior Surgeon and former President of Ganabharathi, praised the centre’s versatility. “JCAC is not just for cultural events but is also well-suited for conferences and corporate gatherings. Mysuru owes a debt of gratitude to Dr. Jagannath Shenoy for creating such a valuable space. This centre deserves widespread promotion and active use by the artistic community,” he said.

Rotarian and Entrepreneur Sam Cherian, Founder-Chairman of Schevaran Laboratories, also lauded the initiative, calling JCAC “a true gift to Mysuru.” “With its attractive design and multi-functional facilities, JCAC is set to become a premier venue for national-level events and conventions. Dr. Shenoy’s dedication to art is exemplary. He truly deserves to be recognised as a Mysuru Rathna,” he said.

A space for culture and conversation

The architecture of Jagannatha Centre for Art and Culture draws inspiration from the Mysore Palace, following a disciplined, symmetrical layout anchored by a central open courtyard. Visible from multiple levels, this space becomes the heart of the complex, highlighting performances and encouraging interaction.

Open areas extend into the landscape, creating a natural microclimate and blending built form with nature, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor experience.

Spread over one acre, the centre houses three amphitheatres of varying sizes, a rooftop amphitheatre, a state-of-the-art auditorium with 350 seats, exhibition halls, art galleries and a public cafeteria.

The rooftop venue and open-air stages are specially designed to support traditional theatre forms like Bayalata and Yakshagana, which demand an unobstructed, expansive setting.

The galleries and exhibition spaces invite artists/artistes from across the world to showcase, connect and share their work. At the lowest level, the cafeteria serves as a communal space — open to all and ideal for lively discussions and cultural exchange.

For details visit, https://jcacmysuru.com/

Built for artistes, not for commerce

“Designed with modern architecture and multiple facilities, Jagannatha Centre for Art and Culture is poised to further artistic and cultural activities in our city. Artistes should make the most of this dedicated space. Dr. Jagannath Shenoy has not created this centre for commercial gain. It is a service to the world of art and culture. His vision stems from the belief that for art and culture to grow, support from art patrons is needed. Dr. Jagannath Shenoy is one such  art patron of Mysuru city.”

— Dr. K.B. Ganapathy, Founder-Editor, Star of Mysore & Mysuru Mithra

Mysuru’s first multi-purpose cultural centre

“Mysuru has long been recognised as a cultural city, thanks to its deep-rooted contributions to art, literature and heritage. The city is home to over 15–20 active cultural organisations that regularly host art and literary programmes. However, despite these platforms, Mysuru lacked a comprehensive venue capable of hosting multiple events simultaneously under one roof. The Jagannatha Centre for Art and Culture was conceived to bridge that gap — to preserve, nurture and promote artistic and literary expression.”

— Dr. M. Jagannath Shenoy, Chairman, Saraswathi Education & Cultural Trust