Mysore/Mysuru: The rich artistic legacy of Mysuru, the historic charm of Bengaluru’s Lalbagh Gardens and the vibrant cultural history of Hyderabad took centre stage during a panel discussion titled ‘The Jewel Cities of Deccan: Their Sparkling Legacies of Art, Music and History,’ held on the second day of the 9th Mysuru Literature Festival at Hotel Southern Star in city last evening. The session brought alive the diverse artistic, musical and historical legacies of the Deccan, connecting past and present through storytelling and  lived experience.

Businessman and art patron R.G. Singh, writer and art historian Suresh Jayaram, and author Moupia Basu shared insights into the distinctive identities of these three southern cities, each a cultural treasure in its own right. The session was moderated by senior journalist Preethi Nagaraj.

R.G. Singh highlighted the depth of Mysuru’s artistic tradition, praising the legacy of the city’s master painters. “Artists from Mysuru have adorned the Durbar Hall and Kalyana Mantapa of the Mysore Palace with extraordinary colour and detail. Their work stands as a lasting visual marvel,” he said.

Writer Suresh Jayaram, who introduced his book ‘Bangalore’s Lalbagh: A Chronicle of the Garden and the City,’ spoke about the historical evolution and architectural heritage of Lalbagh Gardens. He offered fascinating details about the garden’s origins and its role in shaping Bengaluru’s urban identity.

Author Moupia Basu, presenting her book ‘Bhagmati: Why Hyderabad’s Lost Queen is the Soul of the City,’ recounted her journey through Hyderabad’s layered history. She reflected on how the city’s spirit has long been shaped by communal harmony, cultural richness and deep-rooted brotherhood.