Bengaluru: Bengaluru’s first planned layout, Chamarajpet, celebrated its 125th anniversary on Saturday.
Hundreds of residents gathered at the Fort High School to get a glimpse of the Mysore Royal family, including Maharani Dr Pramoda Devi, king Yaduveer and his wife Trishika Kumari Devi. It was said to be the first function the royal family attended in Bengaluru after the coronation of Yaduveer.
Inaugurating the event, Dr Pramoda Devi said, “Chamarajpet was formed by Chamarajendra Wadiyar X. Even after so many years, Chamarajpet has remained unchanged with wide roads and line of trees. This reflects the vision of Chamarajendra Wadiyar. The Mysore kingdom was known for its vision and people’s welfare. Under Chamarajendra Wadiyar X, a representative legislative assembly was introduced. Stress was laid on industrial development and we were the first kingdom to give prominence to women’s education.”
Yaduveer said, “Though Chamaraja Wadiyar served the people for a few years, his contribution is significant. It was during his tenure that monetary offer was made to Swami Vivekananda to travel to Chicago to take part in World Religious Forum.”
Mr Rajakumar K., president of the 125th Chamarajpet Celebration Committee, said that, “We are the only ones in the country to celebrate the 125th anniversary of a layout and we are proud of it.”
An 80-page biography on Chamarajendra Wadiyar, authored by Mr D.G. Ramesh, was released. The royal family also unveiled the stone slab with etchings to mark the 125th anniversary. The second day of the celebration will mark symposiums on Chamarajpet.
Residents were overwhelmed to have a glimpse of the royal family, who were first taken to the Kote Venkatarama temple. The family, who were briefed about its history, took part in the special poojas. Later, they were taken on a procession on a chariot and were brought to Fort High School. The entire stretch was lined with people.
Colourful streets
Twenty five folk troupes added colour to the event. Since morning, they went around the prominent streets of Chamrajpet and entertained the residents. Kamsale, Veeragase and dollu kunita were part of the folk teams. First Mysore Nada Geethe and then Kannada Nada Geethe were sung.
Bagina for princess
People from Rajasthani community, who have significant numbers in the area, offered ‘bagina’ (chunry) to princess Thrishika Kumari Devi and Maharani Dr Pramoda Devi.
