Old DC Office to house Kannada Museum: CM

Mysuru: The debate over the future of the Old Deputy Commissioner’s (DC) office, historically known as ‘Attara Kacheri’ during the British era, has ended with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s announcement to transform the building into a Kannada Museum.

Previously, proposals included converting it into a ‘War Museum and Defence Library and Research Centre’ or a museum of tourist interest featuring rare artefacts such as old coins, manuscripts and records of the Wadiyar Dynasty.

Marking Karnataka Rajyotsava Day, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced on Friday (Nov. 1) in Bengaluru that the State Government will establish a Kannada Museum at the historic Mysuru Old DC Office. The disused building will soon serve as a museum celebrating Kannada’s cultural heritage, he said.

In 2023, a proposal was put forward to establish a ‘War Museum and Defence Library and Research Centre’ at the Old DC Office, with the idea that a War Museum would be a distinguished addition to Mysuru’s heritage as it would enhance the city’s cultural and archaeological value by being housed in a historic building.

Additionally, a War Memorial is under construction at NCC Parade Grounds, adjacent to Old DC Office and directly in front of NCC Group Headquarters.

The proposal highlighted this proximity as ideal, emphasising that a War Museum nearby would honour the sacrifices of the Defence Forces in a fitting location.

This year, however, the Tourism Department prepared a Detailed Project Report (DPR) proposing a Rs. 45 crore restoration and conservation of the heritage building. The plan included showcasing rare artefacts such as old coins, manuscripts, information on the Wadiyar Dynasty, models of the Kings of the Mysuru Kingdom, as well as sections for khadi, handlooms and handicrafts.

While Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is yet to elaborate on his plans to transform the Old DC Office into a Kannada Museum, his announcement on ‘Karnataka Suvarna Sambhrama’ carries significant weight. It will be interesting to see how this heritage building is given a new identity and prominence.

This grand structure, dating back to 1895, is a 128-year-old heritage site located on Krishnaraja Boulevard. Built during the reign of Chamaraja Wadiyar X, it originally served as a venue for meetings of the Mysore Representative Assembly.

The building is dedicated to Sir James Davidson Gordon, who was Chief Commissioner of Mysore State from 1878 to 1881, the year when the kingdom was restored. A statue of Gordon stands prominently in front of the Old DC Office, facing Maharani’s College Road.